Pages

Tonight! February Virtual Tasting - Kiona Lemberger 2010/2011

The February Virtual Tasting is tonight! The wine is the 2010/2011 Kiona Vineyards & Winery Lemberger (see vintage explanation below). This wine retails for $15 and is widely available. The tasting will take place tonight, Thursday February 27th, from 7-8pm Pacific.

What you need to do to participate is:

1. Buy this month’s wine from the winery or a local retailer (see below)

2. Tweet your comments about the wine on Twitter between 7 and 8pm Pacific on the specified date using the hashtag #kiona. For those on Twitter, follow me @wawinereport.

* The Kiona Lemberger is currently between vintages so readers may see either the 2010 and 2011 vintages on the shelf depending on where in the country you live.

Fresh Sheet February 26th 2014







Today’s Fresh Sheet – new and recent releases – includes wines from Mark Ryan WineryKerloo CellarsEFESTEEight Bells WineryAuclair WineryButy Winery, and Robert Ramsay Cellars.

Mark Ryan Winery

As they almost always are, big things are afoot at Mark Ryan Winery. Most notably, the winery recently moved to a new production facility in Kirkland. For a growing winery, the new spot provides an abundance of space – something it has never truly had. The facility was designed with energy efficiency in mind. “This is a commitment to do the right thing,” said proprietor Mark McNeilly. Meanwhile Mark Ryan navigated the cool, challenging 2011 vintage admirably. While I don’t expect the 2011 wines to be quite as long lived as their stellar 2010 cousins, they are every bit as delicious.

Mark Ryan Viognier Columbia Valley 2012 $30
 (Excellent/Exceptional) A perfumed wine with honeysuckle, peach, mineral notes, and toasty barrel accents. The palate is medium-plus bodied with richness and weight without ever becoming oily or overly viscous. This wine walks the balance beam perfectly and Mark Ryan continues to make this variety as well as anyone in the state. 100% Viognier. Ciel du Cheval, Red Willow, and Olsen vineyards. Fermented and aged seven months in used French oak (74%), Stainless steel (16%), and concrete egg. 14.2% alcohol. 800 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Mark Ryan Olivia Grace Columbia Valley 2011 $55
 (Exceptional) An aromatically captivating wine with wild strawberry, pomegranate, chocolate, and garrigue. The palate is full bodied, creamy in feel with a fruit and chocolate filled finish. High on the delicious scale with as much of the enjoyment about feel as flavor. NB: Club wine. 67% Grenache, 17% Mourvèdre, and 16% Syrah. Olsen and Force Majeure vineyards. Aged 18 months in Burgundy barrels (33% new). 14.9% alcohol. 150 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Mark Ryan Crazy Mary Mourvèdre Red Mountain 2011 $48
 (Exceptional) An aromatic tour de force with abundant peppery spices, cherry meats, mineral, and a light meatiness. The palate is full bodied with layers of supple fruit flavors that come in waves, hanging around for a long, spice filled finish. About as good as this variety gets in the state. 92% Mourvèdre, 8% Syrah. Ciel du Cheval and Force Majeure vineyards. Aged 18 months in 500-L puncheons. 15.1% alcohol. 175 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Mark Ryan Wild Eyed Syrah Red Mountain 2011 $48
 (Excellent) An aromatically brooding wine with dark cherries, berries, crushed gravel, peppery spices, light floral notes, and dark chocolate. The palate is rich with focused fruit flavors and a supple feel with pinpoint precision. 100% Syrah. Force Majeure and Ciel du Cheval vineyards. Aged 18 months in French oak (43% new). 14.9% alcohol. 375 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Mark Ryan The Dissident Columbia Valley 2011 $32
 (Excellent) A moderately aromatic, fruit filled wine with dark berries, barrel notes of vanilla, mocha, and spice, along with earth. The palate is soft and supple in feel, dipping a bit in the middle before coming back together for a peppery finish laced with chewy tannins. 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Syrah, 20% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 7% Malbec, and 6% Petit Verdot. Ciel du Cheval, Klipsun, Obelisco, Kiona, and Red Willow vineyards. Aged 18 months in French oak (78% new). 14.6% alcohol. 925 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Mark Ryan Long Haul Red Wine Red Mountain 2011 $48
 (Excellent/Exceptional) Brooding with soil, coffee ice cream, dark raspberries and cherries, barrel spices, and a light herbal grace note rarely seen on Red Mountain. It’s a rich, multiple swallow wine with firm tannins and a spice filled finish. Give two plus years in the cellar. 76% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 1% Petit Verdot. Klipsun, Ciel du Cheval, Red Willow, and Force Majeure vineyards. Aged 21 months in French oak (73% new). 14.9% alcohol. 1,050 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Mark Ryan Dead Horse Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain 2011 $52
 (Excellent) Distinct herbal grace notes along with cherry, chocolate, freshly tilled soil, cassis, and vanilla. The palate is full of chocolate and cherry flavors with firm, chewy tannins. Drinking well right now but will improve with additional time in the bottle. Give at least two years or a long decant. 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. Ciel du Cheval, Klipsun, Obelisco, Red Willow, Kiona, and Force Majeure vineyards. Aged 22 months in French oak (71% new). 15.1% alcohol. 1,275 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Mark Ryan Lonely Heart Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain 2011 $85
 (Excellent/Exceptional) A brooding wine that’s locked up tightly at present with freshly tilled soil, mineral notes, vanilla, licorice, dark fruit and chocolate. The palate is rich and concentrated with abundant dark fruit and chocolate flavors with an extended finish. There’s a lot of wood on this bad boy but a lot of fruit to go with it. Give a long rest in the cellar for them both to fully marry. 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Ciel du Cheval, Obelisco, Force Majeure, and Klipsun vineyards. Aged 21 months in French oak (74% new). 15.1% alcohol. 225 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Mark Ryan Lucia Rose Red Wine Red Mountain 2011 $55
(Excellent) Locked up tightly with barrel spices, high toned chocolate, herbs, mineral notes, cherry, and earth. The palate is restrained in style with supple dark fruit flavors and firm, slightly dry tannins. Give two plus years. NB: Club wine. 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Merlot. Kiona, Ciel du Cheval, and Klipsun vineyard. Aged 21 months in French oak (76% new). 14.9% alcohol. 150 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.


Kerloo Cellars

The 2011 vintage releases from Kerloo Cellars are across the board as good or better than any that the winery has produced to date, particularly impressive considering the challenges of the vintage. Winemaker Ryan Crane continues by and large to work with the same fruit sources with these wines, Les Collines Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley and StoneTree on the Wahluke Slope. However, the 2011 Walla Walla Valley Syrah includes some Blue Mountain fruit – a first – after a 2010 frost damaged the 2011 crop at Va Piano.

Read previous reviews of Kerloohere.

Kerloo Cellars Syrah Walla Walla Valley 2011 $40
 (Excellent/Exceptional) A captivating, complex wine with pure notes of huckleberry, herbs, violets, raw meat, and black pepper. The palate is on the lighter side of medium bodied, tart, fresh and fruit filled with vibrant plum and berry flavors interwoven with herb accents and citrus flavors backed with fine grained tannins. An elegant, gorgeous expression of Walla Walla Valley Syrah that is drinking well but will only improve with additional time in the bottle. Les Collines Blocks 30 & 50 (62%) and Blue Mountain Vineyard Block 8. 13.2% alcohol. 184 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Kerloo Cellars Syrah Les Collines Walla Walla Valley 2011 $70
 (Exceptional) An aromatically arresting wine with pure, vivid notes of huckleberry, plum, white pepper, and high toned herbs. The palate is a panoply of fruit and herb flavors with a silken feel, displaying exquisite balance and length. It’s tart and all about elegance and fruit expression. Best the winery has made to date by a good stretch. NB: Club wine. 100% Syrah. Les Collines Block 30. 13.6% alcohol. 69 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Kerloo Cellars Tempranillo Columbia Valley 2011 $36
 (Exceptional) An aromatically appealing wine with complex notes of pipe tobacco, cherry, grapefruit, espresso, pencil lead, vanilla, and plum. The supple feel ramps up in intensity, building to a crescendo of fruit and spice flavors with barrel accents backed by firm but beautifully integrated tannins. Best the winery has made to date. 54% Les Collines Block 6, 46% Stone Tree Block 17. 13.6% alcohol. 253 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Kerloo Cellars Malbec Stone Tree Wahluke Slope 2011 $40
A dark, glass staining wine with notes of plum, tar, coffee and light spices. The palate is silky soft, focused with concentrated coffee flavors and little excess alcoholic weight. 100% Malbec. 14.1% alcohol. 161 cases produced. (Wine Enthusiast review to be published in an upcoming issue)

Kerloo Cellars Grenache Horse Heaven Hills 2011 $40
An aromatically intriguing wine with mortared herbs, licorice, cherry, and mineral. The palate is fruit filled while retaining a sense of depth, grace and balance. 100% Grenache. Alder Ridge (86%) Block 34 and Upland. 13.2% alcohol. 81 cases produced. (Wine Enthusiast review to be published in an upcoming issue)

Kerloo Cellars Grenache Upland Vineyard Snipes Mountain 2011 $46 
A direct and appealing wine with a cornucopia of fruit including raspberry, strawberry, cherry, pomegranate, and orange peel accented by floral notes. The palate is pure silk with a light elegant styling and an extended finish. 100% Grenache. 13.7% alcohol. 34 cases produced. (Wine Enthusiast review to be published in an upcoming issue)


EFESTE

These red releases from EFESTE – which include the 2011 Rhone-style wines and 2010 Bordeaux-style wines – include some interesting additions. The 2010 Upright Merlot is an attempt to stand the variety back up straight after it was turned Sideways ten years ago. What better way to do it than with Klipsun Vineyard fruit?

Read previous reviews of EFESTE here.

EFESTE Emmy Red Wine StoneTree Vineyard Wahluke Slope 2011 $45
92 points. Made from 71% Mourvèdre, 16% Grenache and 13% Syrah all aged in neutral French oak, this pops aromatically, with abundant black pepper, rare meat and garrigue. It’s full bodied and richly flavored, with a supple feel. — S.S. Wine Enthusiast (3/1/2014)

EFESTE Jolie Bouche Syrah Yakima Valley 2011 $39
 (Excellent) A smoky, earth-driven wine with notes of iron and crushed flowers. It’s elegantly styled with pure, supple fruit flavors. 100% Syrah. Boushey Vineyard. 14.9% alcohol.

EFESTE Ceidleigh Syrah Klipsun Vineyard Red Mountain 2011 $39
 (Excellent/Exceptional) Draws you into the glass with dark cherry, freshly tilled soil, exotic spices, herbs, sourdough bread, and a light smokiness. The palate is subtle but still weighty in feel with an extended finish. 100% Syrah. Klipsun, Bacchus, Sagemoor, and Kiona vineyards. Aged 15 months in oak (22% new), sur lie for 10 months. 14.49% alcohol.

EFESTE Upright Merlot Red Mountain 2010 $39
 (Excellent/Exceptional) With the name a play on the movie ‘Sideways’ this 100% Klipsun Vineyard wine looks to stand the variety up straight. It rises up out of the glass with cranberry, exotic spice, fresh, briary raspberry and kisses of oak spice. It’s wound up very tightly right now with dense, chewy tannins with a drawn out feel. Give three to four years. 100% Merlot. Aged 20 months in French oak (50% new). Klipsun Vineyard. 14.80% alcohol. 571 cases produced.

EFESTE Big Papa Columbia Valley 2010 $54
 (Excellent) Brings a panoply of tight grained oak aromas, savory notes, toasted herbs, slate, licorice, and cherry meats with a real sense of purity in the aromas. The palate is dense with chewy, occasionally somewhat dry tannins. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Klipsun, Bacchus, Sagemoor, and Kiona vineyards. Aged 20 months in French oak (80% new). 14.49% alcohol. 1,073 cases produced.

EFESTE Nana Red Wine Columbia Valley 2010 $44
 (Excellent) Brightly aromatic with red and black currant, pain grille, mineral notes, high toned herbs, and cherry cough syrup. The palate has fresh, penetrating fruit flavors with chewy tannins. Give additional time in the bottle to see it at its best. 46% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Franc, and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon. Red Willow, Angela’s Estate, StoneTree (Cabernet Franc), and Klipsun vineyards. Aged 20 months in French oak (30% new). 14.45% alcohol. 556 cases produced.

EFESTE Tough Guy Red Blend Klipsun Vineyard Red Mountain 2010 $55
 (Excellent) Locked up tightly at present with barrel notes of vanillin and tight grained oak along with cherry meats. The palate is perfumed and rich with minimal excess alcoholic weight, chewy tannins, and a lingering, fruit filled finish. 60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged 20 months in French oak (60% new). 14.55% alcohol.


Eight Bells Winery

Eight Bells Winery is excelling at making high quality wines at value prices compared to their peers. Two wines in particular that stand out in this regard are the 2011 Sangiovese ($20) and 2011 Red Willow Syrah ($28).

Sangiovese is a bit of a struggler in Washington without the trail of successes that many varieties have had in the state. From the 2011 vintage, the Eight Bells offering drinks almost more like a cool climate Grenache in many respects with pepper, raspberries, and herbs. There’s a real sense of freshness to this wine, which truly demands a place at the dinner table. In terms of the Syrah, a high quality Red Willow offering at under $30? Yes please.

Read previous reviews of Eight Bells here.

Eight Bells Winery Sangiovese Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley 2011 $20
 (Excellent/Exceptional) A moderately aromatic wine with complex notes of fresh plum, raspberries, white pepper, and herbs. The palate is medium bodied with a fresh, supple feel with minimal apparent oak influence and tart acidity. A gorgeous example of the variety – reminiscent of Grenache in many ways - and an absolute steal at this price. Make sure to give it some time to open up. 100% Sangiovese. 13.1% alcohol. 212 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Eight Bells Winery Merlot Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley 2011 $25
 (Excellent) Lightly aromatic with cherry, chocolate, earth, and fresh herbs with the Tempranillo showing its presence in a way that doesn’t make it seem entirely like Merlot. The palate is layered, rich, and seamless in feel with tart acidity. As much about feel as flavor, though doesn’t entirely pass the typicity scale. 75% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Tempranillo, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Malbec. 13.9% alcohol. 152 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Eight Bells Winery Cabernet Sauvignon David’s Block Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley 2010 $35
 (Excellent/Exceptional) Vibrant and fruit filled with raspberry, red cherry, plum, high toned herbal notes with a touch of green, and anise. The palate is full of cherry flavors with a supple, soft fresh feel and polished tannins leading to a lingering finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. 14.5% alcohol. 174 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Eight Bells Winery 8 Clones Syrah Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley 2011 $32
 (Excellent) Aromatically vibrant with penetrating huckleberry notes along with plum, raspberry, and herbal accents. The palate is soft, elegant in its styling with supple, tart fruit flavors with chocolate nuances and a long, lingering fruit and smoke filled finish. Dee-licious and only gets better with time. 95% Syrah, 5% Grenache. 13.6% alcohol. 150 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Eight Bells Winery Syrah Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley 2011 $28
 (Excellent/Exceptional) An alluring wine with smoke, chocolate, bacon fat, herbs, and blueberry. The palate is medium bodied, exquisitely balanced with a layered, supple feel. A beautiful wine that shows a lot of deftness, elegance, and restraint with an exquisitely fruit filled finish. A find at this price. 98% Syrah co-fermented with 2% Viognier. 13.6% alcohol. 168 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.


Auclair Winery

Auclair Winery is a winery on the way up with each vintage seeming to improve on the last. The 2011 vintage wines continue that track record with two single vineyard wines from Artz Vineyard, one modeled on a Left Bank Bordeaux-style and one modeled on a Right Bank style.

Read previous reviews of Auclair here.

Auclair Winery Right Blend Red Wine Artz Vineyard Red Mountain 2011 $45
 (Excellent/Exceptional) A moderately aromatic wine with wet stone, dark raspberries, licorice, cassis, dark cherry, floral notes, pencil lead, and wood spice. There’s a sensuous, soft, textured, palate coating feel to the fruit flavors that glide along to a lingering, cinnamon filled finish. A gorgeous wine that will only improve with some additional time in the bottle and should have a very long life ahead of it. Give at least one to two years. 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged in French oak (50% new). 14.3% alcohol. Sample provided by winery.

Auclair Winery Left Blend Red Wine Artz Vineyard Red Mountain 2011 $45
 (Exceptional) Locked up tightly with juicy black cherries, sweet herbal notes, briary ground berries, licorice, mineral notes, and wood spice. It’s densely flavored with abundant cherry notes that coat the palate from end to end, buffeted by firm but not unyielding tannins, before hanging around for a long, fruit filled finish with a touch of cinnamon. Though drinking well now, give it some time in the cellar to see it truly shine. 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc. Aged in French oak (66% new). Sample provided by winery.


Buty Winery

The Buty Winery 2011 Merlot-Cabernet Franc is a thrilling wine. Aged in just a third new oak and coming in just under 14% alcohol, the emphasis is all on the elegant fruit flavors that still retain great depth and a supple, almost creamy feel. Among the more impressive wines to come out of this challenging vintage – though some may find it too light in style or perhaps too herbal for their tastes. But for those who enjoy lower alcohol wines and are not afraid to explore the savory, this is nirvana.

Buty 67% Merlot 33% Cabernet Franc Conner Lee Vineyard Columbia Valley 2011 $45
 (Exceptional) A moderately aromatic, intriguing wine with a medley of herbal notes that span the register – tomato leaf, tarragon, and bay leaf - while staying clear of the greener side of the spectrum with cherry and graphite providing complement and contrast. The palate is elegant in style, almost creamy in feel while still showing exquisite richness. Lingers on the finish. Some might find this wine a bit too light for their tastes as it pounds the hammer softly. Others will fall in love. 67% Merlot and 33% Cabernet Franc. Aged 15 months in French oak (33% new). 13.9% alcohol. 282 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Buty Rediviva of the Stones 65% Syrah, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Mourvèdre Walla Walla Valley 2010 $60
 (Exceptional) Surprisingly quiet when first popped, it slowly opens to reveal moist earth, peat, herbs, peppery spices, pencil lead, cherry, and a light earthy funk that grows each moment in the glass. Much more savory than sweet, it’s soft, textured and pillowy in feel with an elegant styling that stands in contrast to the shimmering depth of the flavors, peppered with spice notes. Those looking for big bold fruit, look elsewhere. 65% Syrah, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Mourvèdre. Aged 14 months in predominantly neutral puncheons and barrels. 13.7% alcohol. 242 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.


Robert Ramsay

Robert Ramsay Cellars is fully in the midst of exploring Rhone varieties in Washington. The latest releases include a rarely seen varietal Counoise from Red Heaven Vineyard (Red Mountain) and a southern Rhone-style blend, Le Mien.

Robert Ramsay Cellars Counoise Red Mountain 2011 $35
 (Good) Lightly aromatic with red fruit and plum. The palate is full bodied with rich, sweet dried cherry and plum flavors, soft tannins, and a warm finish. 100% Counoise. Red Heaven Vineyard. 16.1% alcohol. 133 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

Robert Ramsay Cellars Le Mien Red Wine Yakima Valley 2011 $35
(Excellent) A very aromatically pretty wine with pure notes of plum, raspberry, boysenberry, peppery spice, herbs, and perfumed floral notes. The palate is lighter, elegant in style, supple in feel with no apparent oak influence to distract from the pure fruit flavors. 61% Grenache, 21% Mourvèdre, 11% Counoise, and 7% Cinsault. Red Heaven, Upland, and McKinley Springs vineyards. 13.9% alcohol. 90 cases produced. Sample provided by winery.

February Pic of the Vine

As the end of February draws near and we gaze at the calendar, longing for spring and the warmer weather it brings, this month contributing photographer Richard Duval offers an image he has appropriately titled 'Waiting.'

“It’s just a reminder that what we get to sample come spring is almost certainly worth the wait,” he said. “But in the meantime, we simply wait and wait and wait . . .” Fear not, before long the new growing season in the Northwest will be upon us.

Click on the picture for a larger image. See previous Pic of the Vine images here.

Northwest Wine Round-Up February 15th to February 21st 2014

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from February 15th to February 21st.  Read previous round-ups here.

From around the country...

Wine Enthusiast Magazine writes about Washington's Rise of the Rhônes (article co-authored by yours truly).

Wine Spectator writes about more changes at Evening Land.

Wines & Vines writes about the Wine Science Center streamlining its budget.

The Lowell Sun writes that Drew Bledsoe's 2011 Doubleback is ready for action.

Forbes gives a guide to Portland’s food and wine scene.


From the blogosphere...

Great Northwest Wine writes about Brian Carter Cellars topping a Seattle wine competition. They also write that Whidbey’s Port is part of Washington wine history and Walla Walla Valley.

Paul Gregutt bids farewell to his blog.

The Zinfandel Chronicles writes about the 2003 Cayuse Impulsivo.

Northwest Wine Anthem writes about Taste of Washington 2014. They also give a Friday find.

Wine Peeps writes about the 2012 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Unoaked Chardonnay.

WineEyak writes about pruning for the 2014 vintage.

Jameson Fink talks to Table Talk Northwest.

Write for Wine says to get ready for Washington Wine Month!

Table Talk Northwest talks about Walla Walla Valley’s 30th anniversary.

The Capital Press writes that the wine industry raised a record sum at the annual Angel Share Auction.

AgInfo.net writes about the Clore Center.


From the locals...

The News Tribune writes that farm bill money rescues Prosser's clean plant center.

The Yakima Herald writes about Angel Vine.

The West Seattle Herald writes about Two Brothers.

KPLU writes that Walla Walla winemakers go on tour (with audio).

Seattle Weekly writes ‘It’s National Wine Day: Try Something New!

The Reflector writes that a Ridgefield winery continues to expand, branch out 

The Oregonian writes about Giradet Cellars.

The Statesman Journal writes about Jim Bernau of Willamette Valley Vineyards being selected for the 2013 First Citizen award.


That's all folks!

Northwest Wine Round-up February 8th to 14th 2014

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from February 8th to 14th. Read previous round-ups here.

From around the world…

The Drinks Business writes that Obama serves ‘cheap’ U.S. wine (low value article but interesting to see that they picked up this story).


From around the country…

Vineyard & Winery Management writes about Chardonnay in focus at the Washington Association of Wine Grape Growers conference (article by yours truly).

The Rochester Democrat & Chronicle gives a Washington red toast to the Seahawks.

The Worcester Telegram names the Argyle Pinot Noir its wine of the week.

The San Jose Mercury News writes about Arizona wine with mention of Dick Erath.

The Washington Post writes about Washington wines at the White House.

Forbes writes about six exciting wine regions to explore with a shout out to the Horse Heaven Hills (after the jump).

The Greenfield Daily Reporter (Indiana) writes about Washington wine being served at the White House.

The Denver Post writes that Michelle Brut Rosé this year's "best buy" bubbly.


From the blogosphere…

Grape Collective talks with Greg Harrington of Gramercy Cellars about Mourvedre.

NW Wine Anthem writes about Ponzi Vineyards. They also write about Anderson Family Chardonnay.

Great Northwest Wine writes about winemaker Katie Nelson. They also write about Lopez Island Vineyards, the Long Shadows Chester-Kidder being served at the White House, and Washington Chardonnay.

AgInfo.net checks in on the Walter Clore Center.

Woodinville Wine Update writes about upcoming events.

Wild 4 Washington Wine writes about Yakima Valley’s ‘Soul of the Vine’ video. William also writes about a virtual tasting of the Terra Blanc Arch Terrace.

Zinfandel Chronicles writes about the 2010 EFESTE Emmy. Tom also writes about the Avennia wine release party.

Wine Peeps writes about new releases from Milbrandt Vineyards.

Dr. Vino writes about wines served at the White House State Dinner.

Table Talk Northwest writes about the growth of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates. Jamie also talks with Steve Warner of the Washington State Wine Commission about ‘The Recommendeur’ app.

Write for Wine writes about Washington State Barbera.

Sustainable Business Oregon writes about Ponzi Vineyards.


From the locals…

The Seattle Times writes about Wine Folly’s Madeline Puckette hacking the wine world. They also write about second labels.

The Yakima Valley Herald writes about the Mercer family giving $250,000 to the Wine Science Center. They also write about local awards and the future of Chardonnay.

The Bend Bulletin writes about ice in the Willamette Valley.

The Oregonian writes about Bend Wine Cellar. They also take a peak inside Oregon’s extreme wine collectors.

KUOW writes about WSU’s student made wine.

The Tri-City Herald writes about a building permit issued for the Wine Science Center.

Northwest Cable News writes about Washington wine served at the White House.

The News-Tribune writes about wines to honor the 12th man.

Portland Monthly shines a light on Oregon’s Chardonnay scene. They also write about winemaker trading cards in the Chehalem Mountains.

The Mail-Tribune writes about taking the mystery out of wine with wine classes. They also write about Rogue Valley wines at a Newport contest.

KVEWTV writes about the Grape Grower’s Conference.

The Columbian writes about Washington wine in D.C.

Bellevue Business Journal writes about annual awards at the Washington Wine Grape Growers Conference.

The Bellingham Herald writes that Oregon hangs its reputation on Pinot Noir.

Wine Press NW writes about Myles Anderson receiving a lifetime achievement award.

NW News Network writes about Walla Walla Valley wineries going on tour to promote the region.


That's all folks!

February Virtual Tasting - Kiona Lemberger 2010/2011

The February Virtual Tasting wine is the 2010/2011 Kiona Vineyards & Winery Lemberger (see vintage explanation below). This wine retails for $15 and is widely available. The tasting will take place on Thursday February 27th from 7-8pm Pacific.

What you need to do to participate is:

1. Buy this month’s wine from the winery or a local retailer (see below)

2. Tweet your comments about the wine on Twitter between 7 and 8pm Pacific on the specified date using the hashtag #kiona. For those on Twitter, follow me @wawinereport.

To make it more convenient for people to purchase the wines used in our Virtual Tastings, we are teaming up with a locally run, on-line wine shop, ImpulseWine.com. Instead of having to search for the wine you can order the wine from Impulse and, if you live in the King County area, have it delivered to you free of charge. Just click the link below and select the "Free Delivery Within King County" option in the shipping portion of the checkout process. Please note that King County residents must place orders by end of day on Sunday the 23rd in order to have the wine delivered in time for the tasting.

Click here to order the Kiona Lemberger from ImpulseWine.com

Note: Washington Wine Report does not have any financial relationship with Impulse Wine and does not receive any profits from sales.

* The Kiona Lemberger is currently between vintages so readers may see either the 2010 and 2011 vintages on the shelf depending on where in the country you live.

Northwest Wine Round-up February 1st to February 7th 2014

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from February 1st to 7th. Read previous round-ups here.

From around the country…

Wine Spectator writes about Rajat Parr, Charles Banks, and Sashi Moorman purchasing an interest in Evening Land Winery.

The Minneapolis Star writes about the Boomtown Pinot Gris.

The Tampa Bay Times makes the 2012 Argyle Pinot Noir its wine of the week.


From the blogosphere…

Northwest Wine Anthem writes about Cold Creek Vineyard. They also give a Friday Find from Columbia Winery.

Great Northwest Wine writes about the Mercer family giving $250K to WSU’s Wine Science Center. They also write about Westport Winery expanding its tasting roomwomen stars of food and wine12 ways to celebrate the Seahawks’ championshipWashington Syrah, and Chateau Ste. Michelle’s new indoor concert series.

The Drinks Business writes about top 10 wines in the U.S. press.

Eater Portland writes about Carmella’s Wines.

Write for Wine writes about Alexandria Nicole’s Quarry Butte.

Zinfandel Chronicles writes about mailing list season.

Wine Peeps writes about a challenging wine pairing.

WA Wine PR writes about planning the itinerary for 2014 Washington wine.


From the locals…

The Herald writes that better days are ahead for the Columbia Winery.

The Bellingham Herald writes about the Washington State Wine Awards. They also write about Syrah.

The Times-Tribune writes that a tough climate benefits Oregon wines.

The Statesman-Journal writes that changing Oregon’s liquor laws is proving harder than anticipated.

WSU News writes about the Bud Mercer Greenhouse at the WSU Wine Science Center.

KPLU writes about student-made wines hitting the shelves.

The Seattle Times toasts Washington wines.

Portland Monthly gives a guide to Taste Washington.

Capital Press writes about the Wine Science Center moving ahead. They also write about the red blotch virus.


That's all folks!

Happy 30th Birthday Walla Walla Valley!

Today marks the 30th anniversary of the approval of the Walla Walla Valley appellation. At the time the application was submitted, the valley had a mere two wineries and 60 acres of grapes. Since that time, Walla Walla Valley has blossomed into one of the world's premier wine regions with well over 100 wineries and tastings rooms and nearly 2,000 acres of vineyards.

Below, we look back - then and now - at a handful of the families whose passion and energy helped get the valley started. It is not an overstatement to say that many people in Washington - myself included - would not be doing what they are today were it not for these families' inspiration and passion. The last picture may well be my favorite as it captures so much of what the valley is about: multi-generational families, friendship, and community.

Here's a toast to the valley's founders and all of the people who have followed in their footsteps and worked to make the Walla Walla Valley what it is today. We salute you! May the next thirty years burn even brighter!

Note: The valley is holding a commemorative event on March 20th. Read details here

Left: Gary Figgins, 1974; Right: Amy, Gary, Nancy, and Chris Figgins (Leonetti Cellar)





Left: Jean & Baker Ferguson, early '80s; Right: Marty & Megan Clubb (L'Ecole No 41)


Left: Rick Small (left) & Gary Figgins, '81; Middle: Darcey Fugman-Small, '85; Right: Rick Small & Darcey Fugman-Small (Woodward Canyon)








Left: Casey McClellan, '82; Right: Vicky & Casey McClellan (Seven Hills Winery) 







Back Row (left to right): Rick Small, Darcey Fugman-Small, Gary Figgins, Nancy Figgins; Front Row: Amy Figgins, Chris Figgins circa '79 or '80

Pictures courtesy of Leonetti CellarWoodward CanyonL'Ecole No 41, and Seven Hills Winery. Picture of Federal Register courtesy of Woodward Canyon

2014 Washington State Wine Tour Guide Released

The 2014 Washington State Wine Tour Guide has been released!

The guide is divided into eight wine touring regions: Seattle & Northwest, Woodinville, Southwest Washington & Columbia Gorge, Yakima Valley, Cascade Valley & North Central, Tri-Cities, Walla Walla Valley, and Spokane & Pullman. Each touring region has an introductory article with information about the area as well as suggestions on when to go and things to do written by yours truly. The cover image is by resident Washington Wine Report photographer Richard Duval.

Look for hard copies of the guide at wineries and retailers throughout the state. Out-of-staters can order a hard copy here or read an on-line copy here. Enjoy!

Northwest Wine Round-up January 22nd to 31st 2014

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from January 22nd to 31st. Read previous round-ups here.

From around the world…

Harper’s UK talks with Robert Nicholson with mention of mergers and acquisitions in Oregon and Washington in 2013.


From around the country…

St. Louis Dispatch writes about the Chandler Hill Viognier.

The Los Angeles Times writes about the McKinlay Pinot Noir.

USA Today writes about Portland’s best culinary tours.

The Wall Street Journal writes about Ponzi Vineyards.

The Kansas City Star writes about Pinot Noir from around the world with a shout out to Oregon.

The Democrat Chronicle writes about rooting for Colorado and Washington wines.

Wine Business.com writes about Fidelitas appointing a new general manager.

Shanken Daily News reports that Ste. Michelle posts 5% volume growth for 2013.


From the blogosphere…

Northwest Wine Anthem writes about Minimus Wines. They also give a Friday find.

Great Northwest Wine writes about Celebrate Walla Walla. They also write about Northwest wineries ready to support the SeahawksHamilton Cellars, the Washington State Wine AwardsSan Juan Vineyards, and Tsillan CellarsSun River Vintners.

Woodinville Wine Update writes that DiStefano is moving to the Warehouse district. Shona also writes about upcoming events.

Write for Wine writes about Windy Point.

Zinfandel Chronicles writes about the 2010 Avennia Parapine.

WA Wine PR asks whether there are really nearly 200 wineries in Woodinville.

Wine Peeps writes about the 2012 Chateau Ste. Michelle Gewurztraminer. They also write about Watermill Winery.

Wine Yakima Valley writes about five Yakima Valley wines for Super Bowl Sunday.

Sips & the City writes about Seattle Food & Wine Experience.


From the locals…

Oregon Live writes about Columbia Winery’s new look. They also write about coverage of Oregon by Wine Spectator.

The News Tribune writes about the Barnard Griffin rose.

The Walla Walla Union Bulletin writes that Tom Waliser was appointed for another term on wine board. They also write that a winery oriented business expands into shippingThe Marc getting a restaurant of the year award, and Celebrate Walla Walla.

The Mail Tribune writes about Costco selling Rogue Red.

The Bellingham Herald says to resolve to drinking value-minded reds. They also write about Port Walla Walla air serviceTri-Cities Visitor & Convention Bureau being honored for its wine efforts, and Gingko Forest Winery.

The Statesman Journal writes about Oregon’s First Taste. They also write about Willamette Valley Vineyard.

The Seattle Times writes about Barking Frog. They also write about Yashar Shayan and Impulse Wines and Badger Mountain.

The Tri-City Herald writes that a California firm will build a rail line from Railex to serve Burbank.

The Herald writes about eight reds that sell for $15 or less.

East Oregonian writes that the oldest vineyard in Milton-Freewater is part of a new movement.

The Bellevue Business Journal writes about the Washington State Wine Awards.

The Yakima Herald writes about Gallo introducing new Columbia wines.

Portland Monthly compares two coastal wine fests.


That's all folks!