Details

Here are some great buys in French wines from Esquin Wine Merchants in Seattle and The Thief Bottle Shop in Walla Walla.

From the Esquin December Hot Sheet

2019 Domaine Huet Vouvray Sec, Clos du Bourg ($43.99 - Regular $55) - Huet is one of the best producers of Vouvray (Chenin Blanc). From the choicest vineyard, this shows a brilliant lemon-gold color and floral aromas of Anjou pear, white peach, star fruit, lemon custard, pear blossoms, clover and spiced white incense. The flavors are precise and penetrating, laser-like, with multilayered white fruits that are accented by grape skins, peach stones, chalk and saline minerals. The intensity increases on the back with poire and pêche liqueurs and touches of hazelnut, brioche and lemon zest, followed by a penetrating, racy dry finish (most Vouvray is Demi Sec). Will age beautifully for up to 10 years. 19.5/20 points.

2018 Domaine Audebert & Fils Bourgeuil ($16.99 - Regular $30) - This is a super buy in Loire Valley Cabernet Franc. It shows a deep purplish ruby color and enticing aromas of raspberry, cherry, black currant, crushed roses, mulberry, tobacco, rosemary and sweet incense. The flavors are thick and fruit forward with considerable old vine depth, accompanied by licorice, cocoa, French roast and calcareous earth. The saturation continues on the back with pressed berries, roasted nuts, framboise and crème de cassis liqueurs and soft graphite, followed by a deliciously juicy moderate tannin finish. 18.5/20 points.

2018 Michel Sarrazin Bourgogne Pinot Noir, Vielles Vignes ($20.99 - Regular $30) - From a producer in the Côte Chalonnaise, this displays a brick red color and attractive aromas of strawberry, cherry, cassis, crushed roses, lilac, mulberry and spiced sweet incense. The flavors are deliciously ample yet focused, with notes of red licorice, baker's chocolate, medium roast coffee beans and limestone earth. The old vine character comes through on the back with macerated fruits, roasted nuts, crème de cassis and mocha, followed by a chewy yet stingy moderate tannin finish. 18.5/20 points.

2016 Crous St. Martin Cairanne, "Les Groupilles" ($17.99 - Regular $25) - From the South Rhone Valley, this is composed of 25% each of Grenache, Syrah, Carignan and Mourvèdre, this offers a deep ruby color and and a rich, spicy nose of wild raspberry, bayberry, black currant, black roses, dark tobacco, lavender, herbs, pepper and incense. The flavors are bold and direct, with red and black fruits that are intermixed with licorice, cocoa, roasted coffee beans and earth. The saturation continues on the chewy textured back with roasted berries and nuts, charcoal and a bit of leather, followed by a spicy smooth tannin finish. 18.5/20 points.

The Thief Gigondas-Vacqueyras Pack

The Thief is offering this three bottle Rhone wine Holiday package for $125 which costs $152 when purchased at regular prices.

2018 Domaine Saint Damien Gigondas Vielles Vignes ($38) - Deep ruby colored, this wine emits rich, smoky aromas of raspberry, plum and black currant with scents of black roses, mulberry, tobacco, garrigue (lavender and herbs) and spiced incense. The flavors are thick and generous with red and black fruits that are intermixed with licorice, baker's chocolate and Dentelles de Montmirial granite and earth. On the back the wine thickens further with sensations of roasted berries and nuts and touches of leather and charcoal, followed by a chewy tannin finish. 18.5+/20 points.

2016 Les Pallières Gigondas, "Racines" ($49) - This comes from a collaboration of the Brunier and Lynch families. A blend of 80% Grenache, 8% Syrah, 7% Cinsault and 5% Clairette, it exhibits a deep ruby color and an intoxicating nose of wild fruits - raspberries, blueberries, black currants - with scents of crushed roses, lavender, tobacco, dusty herbs and spiced incense. The flavors, as well, are dramatic with bold black and blue fruits that are infused with licorice root, cocoa, black tea and Montmirial minerals. The penetration continues on the back with macerated fruits, roasted nuts, creme de cassis and charcoal, followed by a lingering chewy tannin finish. 19/20 points.

2016 Sang de Cailloux Vacqueyras, Cuvée de Lopy ($65) - From 55-65 year-old vines and composed of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah, this shows a deep ruby color and intoxicating aromas of raspberry, black currant, plum, black roses, dark sweet tobacco, garrigue, anise and spiced incense. On the palate, the flavors are amazingly rich and full bodied with definite old vine character, with layers of red and black fruits that are infused with licorice, dark cocoa, French press coffee and minerals. On the back, the wine turns thick and chewy with roasted berries and nuts, mocha, creme de cassis and leather followed by a lingering ripe tannin finish. 19+/20 points. 

 

 

Details

For the coming Christmas and New Years holidays, here our our recommendations in sparkling wines that will add a festive touch. Most of them come from Esquin Wine Merchants in Seattle and The Thief in Walla Walla.

N.V. Boizel Champagne Brut Reserve ($34.99 - Esquin) - Composed of 55% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Meunier, this offers a deep gold color tiny streaming bubbles and seductive aromas of pear, strawberry, peach, orange peel, pear and orange tree blossoms. The flavors are deliciously rich and textured, with notes of grape and pear skins and gravelly minerals. The back picks up touches of crème fraiche, toast and orange peel on the way to a crisp finely fruited finish. Excellent value. 18.5+/20 points.

N.V. R. H. Coutier Champagne Grand Cru, Ambonnay, Cuvée Tradition ($38.99 - Esquin) - This 80% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay combination displays an iridescent gold color, frothy bubbles and aromas of apple, pink cherry, citrus, apple blossoms, lemon verbena and toast. The flavors are simultaneously vigorous and creamy, with notes of grape skin, peach stone and flinty minerals. The resonance continues on the back with sensations of pêche and kirsch liqueurs, lemon custard, brioche and dustings of cinnamon and cardamom, followed by a lingering nearly dry (6.5 g/L dosage) finish. 19/20 points.

N.V. Charles Orban Champagne, Troissy, Brut Carte Noire ($49 - The Thief) - This is mostly (86%) Pinot Meunier (with 8% Pinot Noir and 6% Chardonnay) which is usually blended in smaller percentages. The result is a particularly rich and complex Chamagne. Brilliant gold colored, it possesses a fine mousse and captivating aromas of Bosc pear, cherry white peach, cherry and pear tree blossoms, brioche, and white incense. The yellow and white fruit flavors are rich and creamy, marked by grape and pear skins and mountain minerals. The back picks up poire and kirsch on the way to a resonant rich, dry finish. 19/20 points.

N.V. Marie Copinet Champagne Blanc de Blancs ($49.99 - Esquin) - All Chardonnay, this an exquisite Champagne. It shows a brilliant lemon-gold color and streaming bubbles with floral aromas of apple, white peach, apple blossoms, lemon verbena and white incense. The flavors are well-wrought, with a chalky-creamy texture, with notes of brioche and pêche liqueur, followed by a long, resonant true Brut finish. 19/20 points.

N.V. Christophe Mignon Champagne Rose ($70 - The Thief) - Produced entirely from Pinot Meunier, this is a beautiful Rosé Champagne. It displays a deep copper color, fine streaming bubbles and seductive aromas of fraises de bois, pomegranate, red currant, orange peel, crushed roses and pink incense. The flavors are amazingly full and mouth filling, with red and orange fruits that are accented by the CO2 ling with fraise liqueur and recurring orange peel, followed by a lingering finish that is lifted by vivid fruit acidity. Makes a perfect accompaniment to just about anything. 19.5/20 points.

N.V. Château de Mauny Crémant de Loire Brut ($13.99 - Esquin) - This 80% Chenin Blanc, 20% Chardonnay bargain shows a brilliant lemon-gold color, lengthy beads of bubbles and scents of pear, white peach, lemon, pear blossoms and clover. The flavors are bright and lively, with notes of grape skins, peach stones and calcareous minerals. The vivacity continues on the back with poire and pêche liqueurs and lemon zest on the crisp finish. 18/20 points.

N.V. François Montand Brut Rosé ($15 - The Thief) - This is a terrific vale from the Pays du Jura. It shows a brilliant copper-pink color, streaming bubbles and fragrant aromas of strawberries, cherries, red currants, red roses, link lilac, orange peel and pink incense. The flavors, as well, are appealing with lively red fruits that are accented by grape skins, kirsch and cassis and recurring orange peel followed by a brisk finish. 18/20 points.

2019 Rouanne Brut Nature Rosé, "Comte de Grignan" ($34 - The Thief) - This is a blend of 55% Mourvèdre, 20% Cinsault, 10% Syrah, 10% Marselan and 5% Grenache from the South of France. Rosé is indicated only on the back label in small type. This is a striking sparkler. Deep copper-pink colored, it shows streaming bubbles and enticing aromas of wild raspberries, pomegranates, currants, wild roses, lavender and spiced orange incense. On the palate, the flavors are invigorating, with red fruits that are accented by red grape skins, orange peel and silex minerals. The back picks up framboise and cassis liqueurs and spices (nutmeg, clove) on the way to a dry undoesd (Nature) finish. 18.5/20 points.

2015 Albert Boxler Crémant d'Alsace Brut ($36 - The Thief) - Brilliant lemon-gold colored, this possesses streaming bubbles and floral aromas of pear, peach, grapefruit, apple blossoms, jasmine and wet stone. The flavors are delightfully vibrant, with notes of peach stones, pear skins and Vosges minerals. On the back, the CO2 enlivens the wine, counterpointing the leesy texture and poire William liqueur, followed by a crisp, resonate Brut finish. 18.5/20 points.

N.V. Luchetti Brut Sparkling Rosé ($16 - The Thief) - This Italian sparkling wine shows a copper-pink color, effervescent bubbles and attractive aromas of raspberries, cherries, red currants, red roses and pink lilac. The flavors, as well, are appealing with bright pink fruits that are accented by grape skins, kirsch and currant liqueurs and minerals, followed by a refreshing, crisp, finely fruited finish. 18/20 points.

2019 Bisson Vino Frizzante "Glera" ($25 - The Thief) - This is a distinctive sparkler from Valdobiadene. The wine is light gold colored and lightly bubbled ("frizzante") with fragrant apple, lime and wildflower aromas. The flavors are sprightly and refreshing, with notes of spritz, grape skin, apple liqueur and line zest followed by a resonant low alcohol (11%) dry finish. 18+/20 points.

N.V. Jeio Vino Spumante Cuvée Rosé Brut ($20 - The Thief) - This is quite different from the usual sparkling Rosé. It shows a brilliant pink-copper color, streaming bubbles and intriguing aromas of raspberry, pink cherry, orange peel, ginger. lavender and pink incense. The flavors are brightly fruited, with notes of grape skins, peach stones, minerals, recurring ginger and orange peel, followed by a bracing dry finish. 18/20 points.

2016 Llopart Brut Reserva Brut ($21.99 - Esquin) - This Spanish combination 0f 60% Monastrell (Mourvèdre) and 20% each of Garnacha (Grenache) and Pinot Noir is a super buy. It displays a light copper color, streaming bubbles and intriguing aromas of strawberry, pink cherry, nectarine, currant, pink roses, pink lilac, lavender and spiced incense. The flavors are simultaneously delicate and forceful, with notes of ginger, orange peel, cherry liqueur and chalky minerals, followed by a bracing finish that is lifted by bright fruit acids. 18.5/20 points. 

N.V. Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut Sparkling Wine, Columbia Valley ($11.99 - Safeway) - This is a super bargain. Brilliant gold colored, it possesses streaming bubbles and aromas of apple, peach, citrus, apple blossoms and lemon verbena. The flavors are crisp and lively, with notes of grape skins and peach stone. The back picks up touches of hazelnut and toast, followed by a brisk, finely fruits moderate alcohol 11%) true Brut finish. 18/20 points.

N.V. Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut Rosé Sparkling Wine, Columbia Valley ($13.99 - Safeway) - This is a charming bubbly that shows a brilliant copper-pink color, lovely aromas of strawberry, cherry, cranberry, rose petals, pink lilac and pink incense. The flavors are fresh and nicely fruited, enlivened by the bubbles and bright fruit acids, all finishing briskly. 18+/20 points.

N.V. Treveri Blanc de Blancs Brut Sparkling Wine, Columbia Valley ($13.98 - Super 1) - Produced from 100% Chardonnay, this is a real bargain, It displays a brilliant gold color and streaming bubbles, along with fresh accents of green apple, brioche and wildflowers. The flavors are nicely balanced, with notes of pressed white fruits and stony minerals, followed by a crisp true Brut finish. 18+/20 points.

N.V. Treveri Rosé Sec Sparkling Wine, Columbia Valley ($16.98 - Super 1) - Made from Chardonnay with a bit of Syrah, this offers a brilliant pink color and plenty of bubbles, with aromas of strawberry, cherry, rhubarb and scents of cherry blossoms, wildflowers, yeast and white incense. The flavors are bright, juicy and minerals, picking up fraise and cerise liqueurs on the way to a pleasing off dry finish. 18+/20 points.

2019 Forgeron Cellars Sparkling Chardonnay, Columbia Valley ($35) - This is an attractively styled 100% Chardonnay. See the January 2021  issue of the Review of Washington Wines for a full review. 18.5/20 points.

2016 Argyle Vintage Brut Sparkling Wine, Willamette Valley ($23.99 - Safeway) - This Oregon sparkler is strikingly Champagne-like. Composed of 55% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Meunier, it displays a lemon-gold color, streaming bubbles and floral aromas of apple and lemon tree  blossoms, acacia flowers, brioche and white incense. The flavors are crisp and resonant, with the typically high acid Oregon Chardonnay taking the forefront. The back picks up Calvados and a bit of toast followed by a dry finish. 18.5/20 points.

N.V. Gruet American Sparkling Wine ($14.98 - Super 1) - This New Mexico winery turns out a nice well-priced bubbly. It presents a brilliant lemon-gold color, streaming bubbles and attractive aromas of Granny apple, white peach, lemon custard, apple blossoms and a hint of wintermint. The flavors are crisp and resonant, with notes of grape skin, peach stone and saline minerals. The wine enlivens further on the back with Calvados and touches of creme fraiche and lemon zest on the finish. 18+/20 points. 

2017 Schramsberg Rosé Sparkling Wine, Sonoma Valley ($42.99 - Safeway) - Schramsberg is a highly respected long-time California sparkling wine producer. Composed of 72% Pinot Noir and 18% Chardonnay, this displays a copper color, fine bubbles and striking aromas of strawberry, cherry, cassis, orange peel, cherry blossoms and whiffs of white pepper and orange incense. The flavors are exquisitely wrought accented by grape skins and recurring orange peel, and lifted by CO2 and bright fruit acids, followed by a lingering, complex finish. 19/20 points.

 

 

 

Details

Below are listed wines scoring 18.5/20 points for $25 or less and wines scoring 19/20 points for $40 or less.They are listed in the order that they were reviewed. Some of these wines may be sold out. This is a long list which attests to the high quality for price wines being produced.

Wines Scoring 18.5/20 Points for #25 or Less

2018 Forturity Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, Yakima Valley ($25) - January

2018 Cougar Crest Viognier, Walla Walla Valley ($23) - January

2018 Gamache Cellars "Heritage" Sauvignon, Columbia Valley ($25) - January

2017 Gamache Cellars Merlot, Columbia Valley ($25) - January

2016 Helix Merlot, Columbia Valley, Bacchus Vineyard ($25) - February

2917 Walla Walla Vintners Sangiovese, Columbia Valley ($25) February

2017 Intrinsic Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($25) - February

2016 Eight Bells Sangiovese, Yakima Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($25) - March

2019 SMAK Wines, Fall/Winter Syrah Rose, Walla Walla Valley ($18) - March 

2019 SMAK Wines Spring Sangiovese Rosé, Columbia Valley ($18) - March

2019 Smak Wines Summer Rosé, Walla Walla Valley ($18) - March

2019 Brook & Bull Rosé, Columbia Valley ($19) - March

2018 College Cellars "RVM" White Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($20)

2016 MCM Wine Co. "Spectaluxe" Syrah, Columbia Valley ($25) - March

2017 L'Ecole No 41 Merlot, Columbia Valley ($24) - April

2018 Thurston Wolfe Lemberger, Yakima Valley, Crawford Vineyard ($20) - April

2018 Thurston Wolfe Petite Sirah, Horse Heaven Hills, Zephyr Ridge Vineyard ($20) - April

2019 The Walls "Cruel Summer" Rosé, Yakima Valley ($25) - April

2019 Gramercy Cellars Picpoul, Columbia Valley ($25) - May

2017 Clearwater Canyon Cellars Merlot, Lewis-Clark Valley ($25) - May

2019 Vital Wines Rosé, Columbia Valley ($19) - May

2019 Balboa Gruner Veltliner, Columbia Valley ($20) - May

2018 Clearwater Canyon Cellars Albariño, Lewis-Clark Valley ($22) - May

N.V. Clearwater Canyon Cellars "WAHA" Red Wine, Washington ($25) - May

2019 Amavi Cellars Semillon, Walla Walla Valley ($25) - June

2019 Amavi Cellars Rosé, Walla Walla Valley ($25) - June

2019 College Cellars Marsanne, Walla Walla Valley, Anderson Vineyard ($18) - June

2018 College Cellars Dolcetto, Walla Walla Valley, Cockburn Vineyard ($20) - June

2018 College Cellars Carmenère, Walla Walla Valley, Clarke Vineyard ($25) - June

2019 Aluvé Sangiovese Rosé, Walla Walla Valley ($23) - June

2019 Bartholomew Albariño, Horse Heaven Hills, Coyote Canyon Vineyard ($18) - June

2019 Bartholomew Viognier, Horse Heaven Hills, Coyote Canyon Vineyard ($18) - June

2019 Julia's Dazzle Rosé, Columbia Valley ($20) - June

2019 Smoky Rose Cellars Rosé of Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla Valley ($25) - July

2019 Smoky Rose Cellars, Walla Walla Valley ($25) - July

2019 Syncline Grüner Veltliner, Columbia Valley ($25) - July

2019 Syncline Picpoul, Columbia Valley ($25) - July

2019 Syncline Rosé, Columbia Valley ($25) - July

2019 COR Cellars "Alba Cor" White Wine, Columbia Valley ($22) - July

2019 COR Cellars "Rose" Rosé Wine, Columbia Valley ($22) - July

2018 Caprio Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, Walla Walla Valley ($22) - July

2019 Convergence Zone Cellars "Sunbreak" Chenin Blanc, Snipes Mountain, Upland Vineyard ($17) - July

2016 Convergence Zone Cellars "Three Forks" Rosé of Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley, Gamache Vineyard ($20) - July

2019 Nefarious Cellars "Consequence" White Wine, Lake Chelan ($22) - August

2019 Nefarious Cellars Viognier, Lake Chelan, Defiance Vineyard ($22) - August

2019 Ita "1 0f 2" Semillon, Walla Walla Valley, Les Collines Vineyard ($25) - August

2019 Ita "2 of 2" Semillon, Walla Walla Valley, Les Collines Vineyard ($25) - August

2019 Gifford Hirlinger Estate Pinot Gris, Walla Walla Valley ($20) - August

2019 Gifford Hirlinger Estate Rosé of Pinot Gris, Walla Walla Valley ($20) - August

2017 Eight Bells Sangiovese, Yakima Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($25) - August

2019 Tertulia Cellars Marsanne, Walla Walla Valley, Elevation Vineyard ($25) - August

2019 Tertulia CellRS Rosé, Walla Walla Valley ($22) - August

2018 Brian Carter Cellars "Oriana" White Wine, Columbia Valley ($25) - September

2019 Forgeron Cellars Viognier, Walla Walla Valley, Francisca's Vineyard ($25) - September

2019 Wautoma Springs Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley ($17) - September

2019 Wautoma Springs Rosé, Columbia Valley ($17) - September

2019 Seven Hills Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley ($20) - September

2019 Grosgrain Albariño, Walla Walla Valley ($24) - September 

2018 Brook & Bull Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley ($24) - October

2019 Gard Vintners "Freyja" White Wine, Columbia Valley, Lawrence Vineyard ($16) - October

2019 Foundry Vineyards "White on White" Wine, Columbia Valley ($24) - October

2019 Foundry Vineyards Grenache Blanc, Columbia Valley ($25) - October

2019 College Cellars "Cheers" Sparkling Riesling, Walla Walla Valley ($25) - November

2018 Headturner "Flyover" Chardonnay, Horse Heaven Hills ($25) - November

2018 Headturner "The Nerve" Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain ($25) - November

2019 L'Ecole No 41 "Old Vines" Chenin Blanc, Yakima Valley ($15) - November

2019 L'Ecole No 41 "Luminesce" White Wine, Walla Walla Valley, Seven Hills Vineyard ($21) - November

2019 Clearwater Canyon Albariño, Washington, Crawford Vineyard ($22) - November

2019 Balboa "Mith" White Wine, Walla Walla Valley, Eidolon Vineyard ($22) - December

2019 Saviah Cellars Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, Stillwater Creek Vineyard ($25) - December

2019 Devison Vintners Rosé, Yakima Valley, Boushey Vineyard ($25) - December

2019 Devison Vinters Sauvigon, Ancient Lakes, Evergreen Vineyard ($25) - December

2019 Cairdeas "Nellie Mae" White Wine Blend, Columbia Valley, Lawrence Vineyard - December

2019 Ross Andrew Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley ($20) - December

 

Wines Scoring 19/20 Points for $40 or Less

2017 Sleight of Hand Cellars "Enchantment" Chardonnay, Yakima Valley ($28) - January

3018 Bunnell Family Grenache, Yakima Valley ($38) - January

2018 Alexandria Nicole Marsanne, Horse Heaven Hills ($28) - January

2016 Northstar Petit Verdot, Columbia Valley ($40) - February

2017 Three Rivers Syrah / Petit Verdot, Walla Walla Valley ($36) - February

2017 Three Rivers "Trivulet" Red Wine, Wahluke Slope ($38) - February

2017 Three Rivers Malbec, Columbia Valley ($38) - February

2017 Three Rivers Malbec / Merlot, Columbia Valley ($38) - February

2018 Spring Valley Vineyard Viognier, Walla Walla Valley ($32) - February

2014 Five Star Cellars Syrah, Walla Walla Valley ($36) - March

2018 Basel Cellars "Vue des Blues" Estate Semillon, Walla Walla Valley ($36)

2018 Basel Cellars "Barrel Select" Estate Semillon, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - March

2017 Truth Tellwe "Clever Fool" Cabernet Franc, Yakima Valley ($40) - March

2016 Eight Bells 8"8 Clones" Syrah, Yakima Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($38) - March

2014 Eight Bells David's Block Red Wine, Yakima Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($38) - March

2016 Nota Bene Merlot, Red Mountain, Ciel du Cheval Vineyard ($38) - March

2018 Seven Hills Carmenère, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - - April

2015 Bergevin Lane "Paco Franco" Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley ($38) - April

2017 Isenhower Cellars "Rara Avis" Grenache, Yakima Valley ($36) - April

2017 Isenhower Cellars "A Block" Malbec, Columbia Valley ($38) - April

2017 Isenhower Cellars Batchelor's Button Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley ($40) - April

2017 L'Ecole No 41 Estate Merlot / Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla Valley ($36) - April

2017 L'Ecole No 41 Estate Merlot, Walla Walla Valley ($39) - April

2017 Saviah Cellars "GSM" Red Wine, Yakima Valley ($38) - April

2016 Saviah Cellars "Big Sky" Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($40) - April

2017 Gilbert Cellars "Chuckar" Carmenère, Horse Heaven Hills ($35) - April

2017 Longship Cellars "Lucky Wolf" Malbec, Wahluke Slope, Northridge Vineyard ($36) - May

2019 Rotie Cellars Northern White, Washington ($32) - May

2019 Rotie Cellars Southern White, Washington ($32) - May

2017 Tranche Cellars "Pape Blanc" White Wine, Walla Walla Valley, Blue Mountain Vineyard ($25)

2018 àMaurice Cellars Marsanne, Yakima Valley, Boushey Vineyard ($35) - May

2017 àMaurice Cellars Grenache, Yakima Valley, Boushey Vineyard ($38) - May

2018 Vital Chardonnay, Yakima Valley, French Creek Vineyard ($28) - May

2017 Vital Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain, Quintessence Vineyard ($32) - May

2016 Golden Ridge Estate Merlot, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - May

2016 Golden Ridge Estate Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - May

2018 The Walls "Martin's Gold" Chardonnay, Yakima Valley, French Creek Vineyard ($36) - May

2017 Gramercy Cellars "The Third Man" Grenache, Columbia Valley ($36) - May

2017 Clearwater Canyon Cellars "The Wine Project" Red Wine, Washington ($32) - May

2017 Clearwater Canyon Cellars Carmenère, Washington, Phinny Hill Vineyard ($32) - May

2019 àMaurice Cellars "Sparrow" Viognier, Walla Walla Valley ($35) - June

2018 College Cellars Grenache, Walla Walla Valley, Cockburn Vineyard $30) - June

2019 Abeja Viognier, Walla Walla Valley ($38) - June

2018 Canvasback Riesling, Columbia Valley ($30) - June

2019 DeLille Cellars Rosé, Yakima Valley ($32) - June

2018 DeLille Cellars Roussanne, Red Mountain ($35) - June

2018 DeLille Cellars Métier Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($40) - June

2018 Long Shadows "Poet's Leap" Riesling, Columbia Valley ($20) - June

2017 Syncline Mourvèdre, Columbia Valley ($40) - July

2018 COR Cellars "Old Hwy" Red Wine, Horse Heaven Hills, McKinley Springs Vineyard ($40) - July

2017 Caprio Cellars "Eleanor" Estate Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - July

2017 Nefarious Cellars Estate Malbec, Lake Chelan, Defiance Vineyard ($38) - August

2018 Hard Row to Hoe Riesling, Lake Chelan, Glacial Gravels Vineyard ($28) - August

2018 Hard Row to Hoe Gewurztraminer, Lake Chelan ($29) - August

2017 Hard Row to Hoe "S & M" Red Wine, Lake Chelan ($38) - August

2016 Hard Row to Hoe Petite Sirah, Red Mountain, Kiona Vineyard ($40) - August

2019 Waters "Prelude" White Wine, Washington ($28) - August

2019 Valdemar Estates Roussanne, Columbia Valley ($40) - August

2017 Gifford Hirlinger "Obligatory" Syrah, Walla Walla Valley Marieglen Vineyard ($40) - August

2016 Gifford Hirlinger Estate Tempranillo, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - August

2016 Gifford Hirlinger Estate Malbec, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - August

2016 Gifford Hirlinger Estate Petit Verdot, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - August

2016 Gifford Hirlinger Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - August

2016 Barrister Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Bacchus Vineyard ($39) - August

2017 Fly Rod Cellars "Salmonfly" Reserve Syrah, Columbia Valley ($33) - August

2016 Eight Bells "David's Block" Red Wine, Yakima Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($38) - August

2019 Efeste "Adrienne" Chenin Blanc, Columbia Valley ($28) - September

2017 Avennia "Gravura" Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($40) - September

2017 Tinte Cellars Cabernet Franc, Yakima Valley, Dineen Vineyard ($38) - September

2016 William Church Syrah, Yakima Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($40) - September

2019 Kontos Cellars "Gossamer" White, Columbia Valley ($33) - September

2018 Seven Hills Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - September

2018 Alton Chardonnay, Yakima Valley, Olsen Vineyard ($36) - September

2019 Va Piano Sauvignon Blanc, Yakima Valley, Chelle den M ill Vineyard ($28) - September 

2018 Watermill "Hallowed Stones' Estate Tempranillo, Rocks of Milton-Freewater ($40) - October

2018 Watermill "Hallowed Stones" Estate Cabernet Franc, Rocks of Milton-Freewater ($40) - October

2018 Watermill "Hallowed Stones" Estate Syrah, Rocks of Milton-Freewater ($40) - October

2018 Foundry Vineyards Malbec, Walla Walla Valley ($38) - October

2017 Revelry Vintners "Range" Grenache / Syrah, Columbia Valley ($40) - October

2019 Brook & Bull Chardonnay, Columbia Valley ($30) - October

2018 Brook & Bull Petit Verdot, Columbia Valley ($38) - October

2018 Brook & Bull Malbec, Walla Walla Valley ($38) - October

2017 Gard Vintners "Vaucluse" Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($40) - October

2017 Tero Estates "DC3" Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley, Windrow Vineyards ($38) - November

2019 L'Ecole No 41 Chardonnay, Ancient Lakes, Evergreen Vineyard ($35) - November

2017 L'Ecole No 41 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - November

2019 Gramercy Cellars Viognier, Columbia Valley, Antoine Creek Vineyard ($28) - November

2018 Gramercy Cellars Syrah, Walla Walla Valley ($40) - November

2019 Woodward Canyon Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Walla Walla Valley ($29) - November

2018 Isenhower Cellars "Rhapsody in Red" Columbia Valley ($40) - November 

2017 Reininger Sangiovese Grosso, Walla Walla Valley, Seven Hills Vineyard ($40) - November

2019 Three Rivers Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc, Red Mountain, Artz Vineyard ($38) - November

2018 Three Rivers "Trivulet" Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($38) - November

2018 Three Rivers Malbec, Walla Walla Valley, Summit View Vineyard ($38) - November

2017 Tapteil Mourvèdre, Red Mountain, Tapteil Vineyard ($38) - November

2017 Tapteil Cabernet Franc, Red Mountain, Tapteil Vineyard ($40) - November

2019 Frichette Semillon, Red Mountain, Artz Vineyard ($30) - November

2018 Clearwater Canyon Cellars Carmenère, Washington, Phinny Hill Vineyard ($32) - November

2016 Balboa Syrah, Walla Walla Valley, Eidolon Vineyard ($40) - December

2015 Balboa "Vidua Negra" Red Wine, Walla Valla Valley ($40) - December 

2017 àMaurice Cellars "Schafer" Red Wine Blend, Columbia Valley ($40) - December

2017 Saviah Cellars Malbec, Walla Walla Valley ($38) - December

2017 Saviah Cellars Nebbiolo, Walla Walla Valley, Dugger Creek Vineyard ($38) - December

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Details

This is our annual listing of wines scoring 20/20 points and 19.5/20 points in the Review of Washington Wines in the order in which they were reviewed. Some wines may be sold out.

Wines Scoring 20/20 Points

2016 DeLille Cellars Harrison Hill Red Wine, Snipes Mountain ($98) - June

2015 Devona Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Bacchus Vineyard ($80) - December

The above two wines scored 19.5+/20 points, a small difference from 20/20 so they are listed here.

2017 Adams Bench Cabernet Sauvignon, Yakima Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($72) - December

2017 Adams Bench Cabernet Sauvignon, Horse Heaven Hills, Mays Discovery Vineyard ($72) - December

2017 Adams Bench Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Stillwater Creek Vineyard ($72) - December 

Wines Scoring 19.5/20 points

2016 Fidelitas Red Mountain Merlot, Ciel du Cheval Vineyard ($60) - January

2017 Time & Direction "Bruce's Island" Reserve Syrah, Columbia Valley, Solaksen Vineyard ($65) - January

2014 MTR Productions "Memory Found" Syrah, Walla Walla Valley ($95) - January

2016 K Vintners "Cattle King" Syrah, Snipes Mountain, Upland Vineyard ($70) - February

2016 K Vintners "King Coal" Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah, Columbia Valley, Stoneridge Vineyard ($100) - February

2017 Seven Hills "Pentad" Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($85) - February

2016 Northstar Premier Merlot, Columbia Valley ($100) - February

2017 Kontos Cellars Syrah, Walla Walla Valley, Les Collines Vineyard ($47) - March

2017 Kontos Cellars "Baker's Blend" Malbec, Walla Walla Valley, Summit View Vineyard ($55) - March

2015 Kontos Cellars "Caimbry" Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, Pepper Bridge Vineyard ($63) - March

2017 L'Ecole No 41 Ferguson Vineyard Estate Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($64) - April

2017 Gramercy Cellars Estates Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($70) - May

2016 Tero Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, Windrow Vineyards Hill Block ($58) - May

2016 Tero Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, Windrow Vineyards Plateau Block ($58) - May

2016 Tero Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, Windrow Vineyards Old Block ($58) - May

2014 21 Grams Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($125) - May

2017 Woodward Canyon Estate Reserve Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($89) - May

2017 Canvasback "Grand Passage" Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain ($84) - June

2016 JM Cellars Founder's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley ($85) - June

2016 DeLille Cellars Chaleur Estate Red Wine, Red Mountain ($85) - June

2017 Long Shadows "Pirouette" Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($65) - July

2017 Long Shadows "Saggi" Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($60) - July

2017 Long Shadows "Feather" Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley ($70) - July

2017 Longt Shadows "Sequel" Syrah, Columbia Valley ($60) - July

2016 Long Shadows "Chester Kidder" Red Wine, Columbia Valley ($60) - July

2018 Valdemar Estates Chardonnay, Yakima Valley, DuBrul Vineyard ($50) - August

2018 Valdemar Estates Syrah, Walla Walla Valley ($65) - August

2018 (erroneously listed as 2017) Valdemar Estates Syrah, Walla Walla Valley, Blue Mountain Vineyard ($75) - August

2018 (erroneously listed as 2017) Valdemar Estates Syrah, Walla Walla Valley, Stoney Vine Vineyard ($75) - August

2016 Kinhaven Carménère, Washington State ($65) - September

2017 Va Piano "Black Label" Cabernet Sauvignon, Rattlesnake Hills, DuBrul Vineyard ($95) - September

2016 Avennia "Arnaut" Syrah, Yakima Valley, Boushey Vineyard ($60) - September

2016 Avennia "Sestina" Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley ($65) - September

2017 Kontos Cellars "Dorsey Baker" Red Bland, Walla Walla Valley ($55) - October

($80)2016 Revelry Vintners "D11" Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Dionysus Vineyard ($80) - October

2018 Brook & Bull Reserve Malbec, Walls Walla Valley ($58) - October

2016 De la Luz Reserva Merlot, Walla Walla Valley, Golden Ridge Vineyard ($60) - October

2018 Abeja Estate Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla Valley, Heather Hill Vineyard ($80) - November

2017 Abeja Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, Heather Hill Vineyard ($75) - November

2017 L'Ecole No 41 "Apogee" Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley, Pepper Bridge Vineyard ($55) - November

2017 L'Ecole No 41 "Perigee" Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley, Seven Hills Vineyard ($55) - November

2017 Gramercy Cellars "Lagniappe" Syrah, Columbia Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($65) - November

N.V. Reininger "CPR" Red Wine, Sixth Edition, Columbia Valley ($95) - November

2018 Kontos Cellars "Baker Blend" Malbec, Walla Walla Valley, Summit View Vineyard ($55) - December

2017 Adams Bench "the V" Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley ($58) - December

2017 Adams Bench "Ursula" Sangiovese, Yakima Valley, Red Willow Vineyard ($58) - December

2017 àMaurice Cellars "Owl & Crown" Estate Cabernet Sauvgnon, Walla Walla Valley ($75) - December

2017 Kontos Cellars "The Boss" Red Blend, Walla Walla Valley ($175 - 1.5 L.) - December

2018 Sleight of Hand Cellars "Psychedelic" Syrah, Walla Walla Valley, Stoney Vine Vineyard ($60) _ December

2018 Saviah Cellars Syrah, Walla Walla Valley, The Stones Speak Vineyard ($55) - December

2018 Devisaon "Beneath the Stones" Syrah, Stoney Vine Vineyard ($49) - December

2017 The Walls "Mahana" Syrah, Walla Walla Valley, River Rock Vineyard ($56) - December

Next Week: Best Buys of 2020 - Listing wines scoring 18.5/20 points for $25 or less and wines scoring 19/20 points for $40 or less.

 

 

 

 

Details

On Thanksgiving Day, November 26, I read an article in the Walla Walla Union Bulletin about the Pepper Bridge Winery's program to help restaurants out during the COVID-19 crisis. Of course, wineries have a symbiotic relationship with restaurants. Much of the wine produced by wineries is consumed at restaurants. So the Pepper Bridge Winery figured out a way to help struggling restaurants. The promotion is simple: buy a certain amount of wine and get a gift card to any chosen restaurant, not just ones with Pepper Bridge wines on their lists. And the offer is open for Western Washington restaurants as well. So here's the deal: buy six bottles from the winery, get a $50 gift card, buy 12, get a $100 gift card or two $50 ones, and so on, $50 for each six bottles purchased. You go to the winery website, www.pepperbridge.com and place your order and name the restaurants you want gift cards for. The winery will take care of the rest.

I have just finished tasting the new releases from Pepper Bridge for the January 2021 issue of the Review of Washington Wines. Here are my condensed reviews (full reviews to be in the January issue which goes on line December 23).

2019 Pepper Bridge Sauvignon Blanc, Walla Walla Valley ($36) - This steers a mid-course between the crisp and tropical styles. It possesses lovely aromas of pear-apple, quince, melon, apple blossoms, meadow flowers and white incense, with beautifully delineated flavors and notes of poor William, hazelnut and lime zest, followed by a lingering finely fruited finish. 19+/20 points.

2018 Pepper Bridge Merlot, Walla Walla Valley ($55) - This Merlot emits sultry aromas of red fruits, mulberry, truffles and oriental incense. The flavors are strikingly Pomerol-like with lavish, deep-cored red fruits and sensations of macerated fruits, pecans, mocha, followed by a lingering smooth tannin finish. 19+/20 points.

2017 Pepper Bridge Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley ($65) - This Cabernet shows intoxicating aromas of blackberries, cherries, huckleberries, wild roses, sandalwood and sultry oriental incense. The flavors are lavish and almost massive, with layers of deep black and blue fruits. On the back, the wine intensifies yet remains rich and savory with a lingering spice and herb dusted finish. 19.5/20 points.

2017 Pepper Bridge Pepper Bridge Vineyard Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($65) - This blend of 52% Merlot, 23% Malbec, 13% Petit Verdot and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep ruby color and a seductive nose of blackberries, cherries, black currants, black roses, sagebrush and oriental incense. The flavors are simultaneously lavish and muscular and leads into a lingering almost decadent finish. 19.5/20 points.

2017 Pepper Bridge Seven Hills Vineyard Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($65) - This blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 11% Merlot, 11% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot offers a deep ruby color and intoxicating aromas of raspberry, blackberry, cherry, huckleberry, black roses, fennel and incense. The flavors are ample yet deep and focused and on the back turns velvety yet structured. 19.5/20 points.

2017 Pepper Bridge "Trine" Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ($70) - Composed of 42% Cabernet Franc, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Malbec, 9% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot, this offers a ruby-crimson color and lovely perfumed aromas of wild fruits, crushed roses, mulberry, sagebrush and incense. The flavors are lavish and deep cored and takes an authoritative turn on the back, followed by a satiny sweet-dry tannin finish. 19.5/20 points.

 

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