The 2021 Washington Winery of the Year opened 2022 by producing one of the top Merlots in this tasting. Rob and Donna Mellison doted on these eight barrels of juice courtesy of Napa-trained viticulturist Ed Kelly. The hedonistic presentation of dark red fruit comes with elegant tannins and sensational acidity. “They really dialed in on the balance,” remarked one judge. And … [Read more...] about Mellisoni Vineyards 2018 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Barrel Select Reserve Merlot, Royal Slope $150.00
lake chelan
Tsillan Cellars 2017 Estate Viognier, Lake Chelan, $22
Winemaking veteran Ray Sandidge, in his first vintage at Tsillan Cellars, took a third of this lot and devoted it to neutral French oak with the rest in stainless stell fermentation, but it all went bi-weekly lees stirring. Barrel treatment provides a very subtle and pleasing mouthfeel while still preserving bright acidity one hopes for in cool-climate Viognier. Citrusy notes … [Read more...] about Tsillan Cellars 2017 Estate Viognier, Lake Chelan, $22