Coming Up in the March Review of Washington Wine Issue

 

On next Wednesday, on the third day of the month, the March issue of the Review of Washington Wines will go on line. In it, you will see the the first wine ever to be awarded 20 out of a possible 20 points in this publication. The identity of the wine remains secret until then.

 

Accompanying this issue will be next week's Blog which will elaborate on how the 20 points came to be awarded.

 

The March issue of the Review has also been revamped. The profile of the Maison Bleue Winery and its exceptional 2008 reds has been postponed until April, by which time the winery's website should be up and running. The March issue will review new releases including the outstanding 2007 DeLille Cellars Harrison Hill, and the fine 2008 reds from Rotie Cellars. Also, there are two Highly Recommended Cabernets from O'Shea Scarborough. Plus, I have discovered some excellent values from Columbia Crest, Ch. Ste. Michelle and Precept Brands, including new releases from Waterbrook.

 

So, watch for this special double issue of the Review and the Blog!

 

 

Washington Wine Grape Production Up 8 Percent

 

U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics released February 9th, states:

 

"Washington's 2009 wine grape production totaled 156,000 tons, a record high level, and is up 8 percent from 2008. Of the top four varieties, Chardonnay showed the largest increase and was up 19 percent from last year. Of the major varieties, Malbec received the highest average price per ton at $1,473. Growers received an average of $989 per ton for all varieties in 2009, down $41 from last year's record high of $1,040."

 

For more statistics, go to www.washingtonwine.org, and then click PRESS ROOM.