Washington

Country: US / Windthrow Variety: Rhône-style Red Blend Washington Winery: Cadaretta / Columbia Valley (WA) Windthrow is a southern Rhône-style blend—66% Syrah, the rest a mix of Mourvèdre and Grenache. Dense, dark and smoky, it’s got a peppery nose, followed by bright raspberry fruit and an accent of roasted game bird. The wine has both […]

Country: US / Oriana Variety: White Blend Washington Winery: Brian Carter Cellars / Yakima Valley An aromatic blend of 46% Viognier, 37% Roussanne, 17% Riesling, this bears complex scents and flavors of oranges and apricots, which are joined by notes of grapefruit and melon, and complemented with juicy acidity. One-third was barrel fermented in neutral […]

Country: US / Variety: Viognier Washington Winery: Whitman Cellars / Columbia Valley (WA) This has been 10% barrel fermented and aged for about two months. There’s a hint of barrel toast but it’s very light; the varietal character is nicely displayed. Crisp acidity and a strong citrus mix of orange blossom and lemon rind flavors […]

Country: US / Variety: Merlot Washington Winery: Camaraderie / Washington This is classic Washington Merlot, with flesh and a full-bodied middle. It offers a generous palate of cherries and berries, trailing into light tannins with a streak of green tea and coffee. The wine is balanced and bright, with lightly lifted aromas and a solid […]

Country: US / Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon Washington Winery: Camaraderie / Washington A multiple vineyard blend, this includes 10% Merlot, which seems to open up the middle a bit. The fruit is generous and sweet, a mix of berries and cherries and plums, with a streak of coffee running through it. There is a high-toned spicy […]

Country: US / Variety: Chardonnay Washington Winery: Seven Falls / Wahluke Slope Barrel aromas of vanilla and woodspice are out front and lead to light, elegant fruit and barrel flavors that vie for attention through the finish.

Country: US / Variety: Sangiovese Washington Winery: Wilridge / Columbia Valley (WA) Some oxygen exposure seems to peek through on the aromas along with notes of blue fruit and herbs. This wine is lightly flavored with a gritty feel to the tannins and the oak dialed back.

Country: US / Estate Grown Variety: Malbec Washington Winery: Cougar Crest / Walla Walla Valley (WA) This wine comes in with a low, unheard-of (in Washington) 12.2% alcohol. The aromas offer reticent and unusual notes of wheat, lemongrass, tobacco, vanilla and herbs while the flavors are tart and supple. It doesn’t seem outright underripe but […]

Country: US / Reserve Variety: Syrah Washington Winery: Columbia Crest / Horse Heaven Hills This wine shows unusually prominent aromas and flavors of dried rice that are followed by wilted flowers, dried leaves, cocoa and dark fruit. It doesn’t all come together.

Country: US / Rollat Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon Washington Winery: Chateau Rollat / Walla Walla Valley (WA) The fig, licorice and spice aromas seem somewhat dried out and tired. The cherry and cranberry flavors are smooth, with the tannins showing some grit. Drink now.

Country: US / French Creek Vineyard Variety: Chardonnay Washington Winery: Noviello / Yakima Valley Toast, Bosc pear, spice, lees and flower aromas are followed by a sleekly styled palate. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best.

Country: US / Copper Lily Variety: Sauvignon Blanc Washington Winery: Zero One Vintners / Columbia Valley (WA) The aromas in this wine are light, with notes of herb, citrus and orange peel. The palate is dry and broad, with tart citrus flavors. Although appealing, it seems a bit generic.