Redmond, Wash., chemist-turned-dentist Kit Singh proved to be a quick study with his debut bottling of Malbec, and it began with Todd Newhouse’s Upland Vineyard on Snipes Mountain in the heart of the Yakima Valley. Aromas of Marionberry, cherry vanilla and Jolly Rancher grape candy are joined by eucalyptus, gravel and black pepper. Those notes are mirrored on the palate with an … [Read more...] about Lauren Ashton Cellars 2012 Malbec, Columbia Valley, $45
Latest wine reviews
Malaga Springs Winery 2013 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $22
This winery south of Malaga, Wash., is coming into its own, winning four gold medals at the 2016 Wenatchee Wine Competition. This delicious and juicy Cabernet Franc opens with aromas of oak, blueberry, mocha and a hint of cola. On the palate, it offers flavors of pomegranate and cranberry, with just a hint of tell-tale fresh herbs. It’s all backed by well-managed tannins. This … [Read more...] about Malaga Springs Winery 2013 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $22
SuLei Cellars 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $38
College Cellars graduate Tanya Woodley reaches into two local vineyards - Les Collines and Nume - for this youthful Cabernet Sauvignon. Her barrel program of 30% new oak from France and Hungary leads to aromas of chai spice, toffee and toasted cumin with black cherry, Marionberry and menthol. Inside, there’s a focus on dark tones of black currant and macerated cherries, backed … [Read more...] about SuLei Cellars 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $38
Canoe Ridge Vineyard 2015 The Expedition Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley, $15
Best Buy! Skyfall Vineyard in the Yakima Valley, one of Precept Wine’s latest acquisitions, allowed Walla Walla winemaker Bill Murray to double his production of this Sauvignon Blanc that’s built for Northwest seafood. Aromas of pear, Granny Smith apple, lime juice and fresh-cut celery lead to a clean entry of sliced apple, baked pear with herbal notes. Rating: … [Read more...] about Canoe Ridge Vineyard 2015 The Expedition Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley, $15
Auclair Winery 2013 Artz Vineyard Right Blend, Red Mountain, $39
Woodinville winemaker Charlie Auclair remains devoted to the vineyard of the late Fred Artz, relying on the Red Mountain site to create this tribute to Right Bank Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot (73%) and Cabernet Franc (25%) with a splash of Petit Verdot from nearby Heart of the Hill Vineyard. Engaging aromas of dark chocolate, cinnamon and nutmeg include rose petal, sage and … [Read more...] about Auclair Winery 2013 Artz Vineyard Right Blend, Red Mountain, $39