Prosser High grad Victor Palencia launched his eponymous winery in 2013 with a production of fewer than 1,000 cases. Three years later, the reception for the brand has prompted him to triple production. The source for this stunning Sauvignon Blanc is Frenchman Hills Vineyard, a slightly cooler region north of the Wahluke Slope. Clean aromas of sweet herbs, pear and starfruit … [Read more...] about Palencia Wine Co. 2015 Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley, $18
Washington
Grantwood Winery 2014 Tempranillo, Walla Walla Valley, $18
For the fourth straight vintage, Joe Grant and Doris Wood have earned our top rating for their ridiculously inexpensive Walla Walla bottling of this Iberian grape that’s found a home in Les Collines Vineyard. The nose of plum sauce, oak spice and cocoa powder leads to plush flavors of cherry and plum. Backing all that are elegant tannins, juicy acidity, an herbal note and a … [Read more...] about Grantwood Winery 2014 Tempranillo, Walla Walla Valley, $18
Vino La Monarcha 2015 Pinot Noir Rosé, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $18
Victor Palencia follows up on his highly acclaimed 2014 rosé by going a little deeper into the color palette, creating a slightly darker tone. However, the 2015 also is racking up accolades, a double gold medal winner at the 2016 Cascadia Wine Competition and a gold medal at the 2016 Walla Walla Valley Wine Competition. The product of the Jones family's 2 Gun Vineyard features … [Read more...] about Vino La Monarcha 2015 Pinot Noir Rosé, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $18
Three Rivers Winery 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $39
There’s quite a pedigree on this dark and lovely Cab by longtime winemaker Holly Turner with fruit from Seven Hills, Champoux and Klipsun vineyards that includes Merlot (5%) and Petit Verdot (5%). The program of all-French oak - half of it new - yields aromas of chocolate brownie and espresso with blackberry and caramel. Inside, it’s a classic Cab with black cherry and … [Read more...] about Three Rivers Winery 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $39
Drink Washington State Winery NV Sparkling Riesling, Yakima Valley, $19
Certified sommelier Brad Binko grew up in upstate New York and lorded over wine lists in Charleston, S.C., before moving cross-country to make wine in Washington state. He’s already operating in the Walla Walla airport complex and winning gold medals for the wines he made while completing his degree in Walla Walla Community College’s vaunted winemaking program. The sparkling … [Read more...] about Drink Washington State Winery NV Sparkling Riesling, Yakima Valley, $19