The husband-wife team of Al and Kathy Mathews runs this small, energetic operation about 10 miles from downtown Wenatchee. This remarkable Chenin Blanc opens with aromas of lemon-lime and peach, followed by flavors of apple, peach and lemon zest. This versatile white wine will pair beautifully with grilled halibut, mildly spicy Thai dishes or grilled pork chops. This won gold … [Read more...] about Malaga Springs Winery 2015 Chenin Blanc, Columbia Valley, $16
Washington
Kiona Vineyards and Winery 2013 Estate Merlot, Red Mountain, $25
In 1976, John Williams began establishing his Merlot with fan-trained trellising across what is now Washington’s most famous wine region. These days, the Kiona brand is steered by his son, Scott, and grandson J.J., and they prefer using second-fill barrels for the estate Merlot. That program, which tilts toward French oak, offers complex aromas of black currant and Damsom plum … [Read more...] about Kiona Vineyards and Winery 2013 Estate Merlot, Red Mountain, $25
Wit Cellars 2015 Rosé, Columbia Valley, $18
Yakima Valley winemakers Flint Nelson and Cat Warwick moved quickly and skillfully in launching their new Wit Cellars brand, and this 50/50 blend of Sangiovese and Tempranillo from the Wahluke Slope doesn’t disappoint. Its light strawberry color brings aromas of fresh strawberry, cherry and raspberry with peaches and cream. There’s a match on the palate, which is clean and … [Read more...] about Wit Cellars 2015 Rosé, Columbia Valley, $18
Waterbrook Winery 2015 Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley, $13
Best Buy! Walla Walla winemaker John Freeman and his team spotlight Precept estate site Canyon Vineyard Ranch near Prosser, Wash., for this Pinot Gris that’s not shy of personality. The nose of Ambrosia Salad, honeydew melon, Mandarin orange and facial powder ushers in flavors of Asian pear, citrus and kiwi fruit. Pleasing tartness and pear skin tannin balance the residual … [Read more...] about Waterbrook Winery 2015 Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley, $13
Maryhill Winery 2013 Proprietor’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $40
Maryhill Winery's Richard Batchelor crafted this sophisticated blend of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from multiple vineyards, using Clifton Hill (30%), McKinley Springs (30%), Kiona (20%) and Eagle Ranch in this Proprietor's Reserve. The result is a seamless array of aromas and flavors showing off black cherries, blackberries, blueberries and black currants. It finishes with … [Read more...] about Maryhill Winery 2013 Proprietor’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $40