Sauvignon Blanc is a truly global variety, finding fame and fans from California to New Zealand to its native Bordeaux region in France. Here in the Pacific Northwest, Sauvignon Blanc is a favorite white variety. In 2014, some 6,700 tons were harvested in Washington behind Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Gris in importance. While Northwest Sauvignon Blanc doesn't have a … [Read more...] about NW Sauvignon Blanc a seafood favorite
Featured wines
Bordeaux blends from the Great Northwest
When it comes to blending, France's Bordeaux region sets the standard. Amid red grapes, Bordeaux allows eight grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Carménère, St. Macaire and Gros Verdot - the last two being obscure varieties that aren't to our knowledge grown in the Pacific Northwest in any commercial quantity. Here are a dozen delicious … [Read more...] about Bordeaux blends from the Great Northwest
Cabernet Sauvignon is king in Washington
In Washington state, Cabernet Sauvignon is king. More acreage than any other variety, more retail value than any other wine, and more tons crushed each fall. And the classic Bordeaux red makes arguably Washington's best wines. Here are a dozen delicious examples we've tasted recently - all of which have earned our top "Outstanding!" rating in blind tastings. … [Read more...] about Cabernet Sauvignon is king in Washington
Cabernet Franc a gentler version of Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Franc often is viewed as a kinder, gentler version of Cabernet Sauvignon, kind of like its little brother. More correctly, it's more of a father figure. DNA testing in 1997 showed that Cabernet Sauvignon is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Cabernet Franc is most famous in France's Bordeaux region, where it is one of six grapes used in blends. … [Read more...] about Cabernet Franc a gentler version of Cabernet Sauvignon
Brilliance of Oregon Pinot Noir
When you focus on one grape, you get pretty good at it. This works in the Old World with Burgundy (Pinot Noir), Bordeaux (Cabernet Sauvignon) and Tuscany (Sangiovese), as well as in the New World with Napa Valley (Cabernet Sauvignon) and Australia (Syrah). In Oregon, more than 60 percent of the vines are planted to Pinot Noir, making Oregon the most focused wine-producing … [Read more...] about Brilliance of Oregon Pinot Noir