A Visit to Spokane

Last weekend, August 21st and 22nd, Lynn and I drove up to Spokane and while there, visited the Barrister and Robert Karl Wineries. At Barrister, I tasted some fine 2013's and 2012's with Greg Lipsker, including a first time 2013 Petit Verdot, an unusually intense Sangiovese, and a distinctive multi-vintage "Barrister's Block" Red. At Robert Karl, we sampled a couple of exceptional Horse Heaven Hill Cabernet Sauvignons, a 2012 three vineyard blend and a 2011 Phinny Hill Vineyard. These and other wines will be reviewed in the October issue of the Review of Washington Wines.

 

The 2015 Harvest Beginning

The 2015 harvest looks to be like the earliest on record. Some grapes have already been harvested (Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Syrah). Varieites that are normally harvested in mid October are projected to come in by mid September. Brix levels are already at the 23.5-24.5 degree levels. They need just a bit more time to get the optimum ph levels. Overall quality levels are expected to be high.

 

Gentlemen of the Road Stopover a Great Success

The Gentlemen of the Road Stopover, featuring the Mumford & Sons, and the Foo Fighters, brought in over 20,000 visitors to Walla Walla the weekend of August 14th-16th. Downtown was packed with street concerts and other events. Lynn helped out at the Maison Bleue tasting room which was busy. The visitors made great guests.