For the better part of two decades, Craig Mitrakul has a well-earned reputation as one of the top winemakers in North Central Washington for different producers. Crayelle is his own project, and this stunning Sauv Blanc is named for his daughter and uses grapes from Cave B Vineyards. It opens with aromas of tropical fruit, including pineapple and kiwi. On the palate, this zesty … [Read more...] about Crayelle Cellars 2015 Neve’s Blanc Sauvignon Blanc, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $21
Rio Vista Wines 2015 Pinot Noir Rosé, Columbia Valley, $25
Rosés have become seriously delicious in a fairly short period of time in the Northwest, thanks to winemakers’ dedication to providing examples that are low in sweetness and bursting with fresh fruit flavors. This is a perfect example, thanks to aromas of light strawberry, apricot and vanilla, followed by flavors of raspberry, peach and cherry. It’s all perfectly balanced with … [Read more...] about Rio Vista Wines 2015 Pinot Noir Rosé, Columbia Valley, $25
Jones of Washington 2014 Estate Chardonnay, Wahluke Slope, $14
Best Buy! Using grapes from estate vineyards on the warm Wahluke Slope, winemaker Victor Palencia continues to show his skills as one of Washington’s finest white wine producers. This opens with intriguing aromas of lemon bar and orange zest, followed by flavors of crisp lime and lemon, all backed by elegant acidity that gives way to a lengthy finish. Enjoy this with grilled … [Read more...] about Jones of Washington 2014 Estate Chardonnay, Wahluke Slope, $14
Cave B Estate Winery 2012 XXVII Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $48
Since taking over as head winemaker in 2007, Freddy Arredondo has shown his talents in the cellar by raising the profile of this longtime winery near the town of George. This Cabernet Sauvignon uses estate grapes in the Ancient Lakes, and it provides complex aromas of perfumy oak, ginger, violet and cherry, followed by flavors of sweet oak, blackberry, raspberry and cocoa … [Read more...] about Cave B Estate Winery 2012 XXVII Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $48
Walla Walla Valley wine grape harvest begins to ramp up
WALLA WALLA, Wash. - The Walla Walla Valley wine grape harvest is off to a steady start and is expected to burst into a full-blown frenzy in the next week or so. Although many growers expected an early harvest this year after temperatures soared early in the growing season, moderate temperatures during July and August allowed the grapes to ripen at a more leisurely pace. The … [Read more...] about Walla Walla Valley wine grape harvest begins to ramp up