It's known as "the third Bordeaux" variety, and it's starting to gain more respect in the Pacific Northwest. Cabernet Franc is Washington's No. 4 red wine grape (after Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah), and dozens are being produced as standalone varietal wines. Traditionally, the six Bordeaux reds (Cab, Merlot, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Carménère) are … [Read more...] about Cabernet Franc builds upon following as ‘third Bordeaux’
Featured wines
Oregon Pinot Noir on global stage
The rise of Oregon Pinot Noir in the past half-century has been impressive. Oregon - and in particular the Willamette Valley - has earned a global reputation for its Pinot Noir. The wines are talked about and draw comparisons to Pinot Noirs from throughout the world. As recently as 1992, Oregon winemakers crushed just 4,000 tons of Pinot Noir. By 2014, that number reached … [Read more...] about Oregon Pinot Noir on global stage
Bargain whites abound across Great Northwest
With spring weather warming considerably, we will find ourselves reaching for crisp and refreshing white wines more often for the next several months. It's always good to have a couple of bottles in the refrigerator for any occasion, and it helps to ease budget concerns if they are inexpensive - say $15 or less. And there are plenty of wines in this price range from which … [Read more...] about Bargain whites abound across Great Northwest
Great value reds from Great Northwest
When looking at affordable red wines, there are two considerations: sub-premium box and jug wines typically produced in California and premium wines at less than $15 per bottle. The vast majority of California jug wine is made from grapes grown in high quantity (more than 10 tons per acre) in the arid Central Valley. In the Pacific Northwest, it's virtually … [Read more...] about Great value reds from Great Northwest
Time to think pink in Great Northwest
Rosés are one of the hottest categories of wine across the Pacific Northwest. Wine lovers are buying and drinking dry rosés in record numbers, and winemakers are only happy to oblige them by making more and more. Pink wines are perfect for when the weather warms up, as there is little that is more refreshing than a dry rosé with a deliciously fresh meal. Northwest … [Read more...] about Time to think pink in Great Northwest