The Great Northwest Wine editorial team and the Pacific Northwest wine industry have come a long way since we created the Platinum Awards back in 2000. These days, "Platinum” is a designation that gets tossed around by myriad competitions, but 23 years ago, we believed we were the first — and credit goes to event founder Andy Perdue for that. Alas, we were newspaper men and … [Read more...] about 23 years and counting for Platinum Awards
Oregon wine
Rich Cushman’s affection for Grenache reflected in No. 1 wine of 2022 Platinum
Grenache, the darling of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Southern Rhône, has long been a preferred drink for Columbia Gorge winemaker Rich Cushman. In the minds of Great Northwest Wine judges, the example Cushman crafted for Mt. Hood Winery from the 2018 vintage ranked as “The Best of the Best” — the No. 1 wine at the 23rd annual Platinum Awards. “I’ve always thought … [Read more...] about Rich Cushman’s affection for Grenache reflected in No. 1 wine of 2022 Platinum
A Vine Start: Ste. Michelle’s new owners add rather than subtract
Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and its team have experienced turbulent times in recent years, but Sept. 7 sparked some celebrations when the largest wine company in Washington state announced its acquisition of two of Oregon’s largest brands — A to Z Wineworks and Rex Hill. The move makes Ste. Michelle Wine Estates the largest wine company in Oregon, and the shock and awe … [Read more...] about A Vine Start: Ste. Michelle’s new owners add rather than subtract
Match Maker: King Estate Winery rising stars combine for elevated restaurant experience
EUGENE, Ore. — The King family continues to take a thoughtful approach to the gradual evolution of their restaurant that surrounds the tasting gallery at King Estate Winery. With the spring arrival of executive chef Matt Hobbs, the Kings of Pinot seem poised to move a culinary program rooted in organic farming to an unprecedented level of prominence. “We will put King … [Read more...] about Match Maker: King Estate Winery rising stars combine for elevated restaurant experience
Top vineyards, leading winemakers help Albariño grow in Northwest
Some of the Pacific Northwest’s most decorated and highly educated winemakers knew Albariño would thrive in our region. That makes it a bit curious as to why more haven’t followed the lead of brands such as Abacela, Barnard Griffin, Clearwater Canyon Cellars, Coyote Canyon Winery, Maryhill Winery, Palencia Wine Co. and Thurston Wolfe. Of course, the story starts in the … [Read more...] about Top vineyards, leading winemakers help Albariño grow in Northwest