One of Oregon's most talented and experienced winemakers, Luisa Ponzi, likened the 2017 vintage to the cooler growing seasons of 2010 and 2011. And yet, the second-generation vintner crafts this in an immediately approachable Pinot Noir with mass appeal. A barrel program of just 11 months and 20% new French oak leads to aromas of black cherry pie and dried red currant with dark … [Read more...] about Ponzi Vineyards 2017 Tavola Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $27
Outstanding
Quilceda Creek Vintners 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $200
The Golitzin family celebrated its 38th vintage in 2016, and this statuesque Cabernet Sauvignon is built upon the shoulders of four estate vineyards in the Horse Heaven Hills - the birthplace for many of Washington's most acclaimed Cabs. Champoux Vineyard long has been the backbone of this high-scoring wine, complemented by nearby Palengat and Quilceda Creek's two sites … [Read more...] about Quilceda Creek Vintners 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $200
Craftsman Cellars 2015 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $29
Greg Shelman spent his first career as furniture craftsman before he turned to Washington State University's winemaking program, completing his studies in 2003 and moving into cellars at Spokane-area wineries such as Arbor Crest. In 2015, he opened a tasting room in the Lilac City at Kendall Yards, where he dotes on a portfolio devoted to Bordeaux-inspired wines. His expressive … [Read more...] about Craftsman Cellars 2015 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $29
Winter’s Hill Estate 2016 Estate Ninebark Sparkling Wine, Dundee Hills, $49
The Gladhart family uses their fruity and crisp methode Champenoise project to pay tribute to a native shrub that thrives across their Dundee Hills estate - the Pacific Ninebark. Aged beyond secondary fermentation for 18 months, the 50/50 blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Blanc features a clean nose of Asian pear, Granny Smith apple, dried herbs and lemon peel. The profile of … [Read more...] about Winter’s Hill Estate 2016 Estate Ninebark Sparkling Wine, Dundee Hills, $49
Sol Stone Wine 2017 Sol Sister Viognier, Columbia Valley, $24
Historic planting Conner Lee and one of the Northwest's top sites for Viognier - Antoine Creek near Chelan - are blended by Buzz Buckingam to create a gorgeous example of this Rhône white. Alluring aromas of orange Creamsicle, peach blossom and pie spice carry across the palate with ideal weight and pleasing tangerine acidity. The finish of white peach and apricot includes a … [Read more...] about Sol Stone Wine 2017 Sol Sister Viognier, Columbia Valley, $24