
** Please note, starting with the February issue Washington scores will be published monthly instead of every other month. **
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from December 1st
to 7th 2016. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the world…
The Toronto Sun writes about Washington wine.
Metro News Canada writes about the 2013 Erath Pinot Noir.
The West Sussex County Times write that Washington wines flow at a Christmas bash.
From around the world…
The Toronto Sun writes about Washington wine.
Metro News Canada writes about the 2013 Erath Pinot Noir.
The West Sussex County Times write that Washington wines flow at a Christmas bash.

Enjoy!
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from November 15th
to 30th 2016.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about an Oregon Pinot Noir producer’s transparent pricing.
The Worcester Telegram recommends several Northwest wines for the holidays.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about an Oregon Pinot Noir producer’s transparent pricing.
The Worcester Telegram recommends several Northwest wines for the holidays.

“Sean and I spent a day during harvest in the Rattlesnake Hills appellation fully immersed in harvest and crush activities of some great wineries,” he said. “We started the morning at Owen Roe estate vineyard and ended the day at Bonair’s historic Morrison Vineyard, oldest vineyard in Rattlesnake Hills. Harvest is the most colorful time of the year in wine country – grapes turning full color, deep green vines, cooler temperatures mixed with steady sun – all combined for a rich palette and my favorite setting of the season.”
Click on the picture to see a larger image.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from November 1st to 14th 2016. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
The Wall Street Journal writes about Oregon winemakers making Chardonnay cool again.
Wine Spectator writes about budget friendly Oregon Pinot Noirs. They also write about ripeness in Oregon Pinot Noir.
The Gainesville Times recommends the Chateau Ste Michelle Gewurztraminer for Thanksgiving.
From around the country…
The Wall Street Journal writes about Oregon winemakers making Chardonnay cool again.
Wine Spectator writes about budget friendly Oregon Pinot Noirs. They also write about ripeness in Oregon Pinot Noir.
The Gainesville Times recommends the Chateau Ste Michelle Gewurztraminer for Thanksgiving.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from October 22nd to 31st. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about Christophe Baron explaining the unique terroir of the Walla Walla Valley.
The San Diego Union Tribune writes about K Vintners.
Wines and Vines writes that Oregon wine grape growers learn to roll with cannabis.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about Christophe Baron explaining the unique terroir of the Walla Walla Valley.
The San Diego Union Tribune writes about K Vintners.
Wines and Vines writes that Oregon wine grape growers learn to roll with cannabis.

Below are my Wine Enthusiast reviews for November 2016. Wines are listed alphabetically by winery. Read additional information on how I review wines here. All of these reviews are freely available on-line at the Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide. There is also a freely available Wine Enthusiast Tasting Guide app. See previous Wine Enthusiast reviews re-published in this space here. Search Wine Enthusiast's on-line database here.
245 Washington wines are reviewed in the November issue of Wine Enthusiast. These include another strong set of releases from Andrew Januik (Andrew Januik 2013 Stone Cairn Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $40, 90 points; Andrew Januik 2013 Lady Hawk Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $50, 91 points).

The following are standout wines from recent tastings.
Aluvé Primo Volo Walla Walla Valley 2012 $48
This is the inaugural release from this winery, and this Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend impresses with aromas and flavors of poblano pepper, spice, vanilla and cherry.
Andrew Will Champoux Vineyard Red Wine Horse Heaven Hills 2013 $74
Merlot and Cabernet Franc make up the bulk of this wine, which displays aromas, and flavors of earth, flowers, black plum, and green herb along with a sense of texture that captivates.
Andrew Will Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Wine Red Mountain 2013 $64
This blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc brings aromas of huckleberry, green herbs and light barrel accents. The flavors are rich and dense with chewy tannins providing support.
Aluvé Primo Volo Walla Walla Valley 2012 $48
This is the inaugural release from this winery, and this Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend impresses with aromas and flavors of poblano pepper, spice, vanilla and cherry.
Andrew Will Champoux Vineyard Red Wine Horse Heaven Hills 2013 $74
Merlot and Cabernet Franc make up the bulk of this wine, which displays aromas, and flavors of earth, flowers, black plum, and green herb along with a sense of texture that captivates.
Andrew Will Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Wine Red Mountain 2013 $64
This blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc brings aromas of huckleberry, green herbs and light barrel accents. The flavors are rich and dense with chewy tannins providing support.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from October 15th to 21st. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes that Constellation buys five Charles Smith Wines brands for $120M. They also give a harvest report for Oregon.
Shanken Daily News writes about the Charles Smith sale. Read a follow-up here.
The Santa Rosa Press Democrat writes about the Charles Smith sale.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes that Constellation buys five Charles Smith Wines brands for $120M. They also give a harvest report for Oregon.
Shanken Daily News writes about the Charles Smith sale. Read a follow-up here.
The Santa Rosa Press Democrat writes about the Charles Smith sale.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from October 8th to 14th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about a new winery at the starting gate in Oregon.
The New York Times writes about putting together the details of Oregon Pinot Noir.
The Wall Street Journal writes about a home above a winery in Lake Chelan.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about a new winery at the starting gate in Oregon.
The New York Times writes about putting together the details of Oregon Pinot Noir.
The Wall Street Journal writes about a home above a winery in Lake Chelan.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from October 1st to 7th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast magazine writes about the changing face of Washington Syrah (article by yours truly).
Wine Spectator writes about Jackson Family purchasing Willakenzie Vineyard.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast magazine writes about the changing face of Washington Syrah (article by yours truly).
Wine Spectator writes about Jackson Family purchasing Willakenzie Vineyard.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from September 22nd to 30th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the world…
Torontoist writes about what Ontario wineries can learn from Oregon.
The Yorkshire Post writes about how a winery on a Seattle industrial estate is making a name for itself.
Cayman Compass writes that Oregon wines offer character and distinction.
From around the world…
Torontoist writes about what Ontario wineries can learn from Oregon.
The Yorkshire Post writes about how a winery on a Seattle industrial estate is making a name for itself.
Cayman Compass writes that Oregon wines offer character and distinction.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from September 15th to 21st. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
The New York Times writes about Oregon Pinot Noir.
At Business Insider, Deb Hatcher of A to Z Wine Works says you’re serving your reds and whites at the wrong temperatures.
D Magazine writes about Riesling.
From around the country…
The New York Times writes about Oregon Pinot Noir.
At Business Insider, Deb Hatcher of A to Z Wine Works says you’re serving your reds and whites at the wrong temperatures.
D Magazine writes about Riesling.

Top 10 Washington Wines of 2016
Top Syrah
Top Bordeaux-style Blends
Top Cabernet Sauvignon
Wines with a Sense of Place
Top Red Blends
Top Merlot
Wines from the Wild West
Washington's Best White Wines
Best Value Wines
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from September 8th to 14th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the world…
The Drinks Business gives some pictures from harvest in Oregon.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about Walla Walla.
From around the world…
The Drinks Business gives some pictures from harvest in Oregon.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about Walla Walla.
The following are some of the standout wines from recent tastings.
Airfield Estates Red Wine Yakima Valley 2014 $18
This month’s wines include some terrific values, including this Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot dominant blend. Oak spice, cherry, and herb aromas lead to bountiful fruit flavors, with the barrel influence at times playing prominently.
L’Ecole No 41 Frenchtown Red Wine Columbia Valley 2014 $23
L’Ecole has been making this wine for some time but this is the first year when it will be available nationally, A blend of Bordeaux and Rhone varieties, it’s downright delicious, with raspberry, plum, and black fruit flavors.
Airfield Estates Red Wine Yakima Valley 2014 $18
This month’s wines include some terrific values, including this Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot dominant blend. Oak spice, cherry, and herb aromas lead to bountiful fruit flavors, with the barrel influence at times playing prominently.
L’Ecole No 41 Frenchtown Red Wine Columbia Valley 2014 $23
L’Ecole has been making this wine for some time but this is the first year when it will be available nationally, A blend of Bordeaux and Rhone varieties, it’s downright delicious, with raspberry, plum, and black fruit flavors.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from September 1st to 7th, 2016. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast interviews Michael Savage of Savage Grace (interview by yours truly).
Wine Spectator tastes a 12-year vertical of Quilceda Creek.
Wines and Vines writes that cooler weather promises a photo finish in the Pacific Northwest.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast interviews Michael Savage of Savage Grace (interview by yours truly).
Wine Spectator tastes a 12-year vertical of Quilceda Creek.
Wines and Vines writes that cooler weather promises a photo finish in the Pacific Northwest.

Enjoy!
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from August 8th to 31st. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the world…
The Yorkshire Post writes about scaling the Pacific heights for a decent bottle of wine.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about the Auction of Washington Wine raising $3M.
The Chicago Tribune gives 12 Oregon Pinots that prove the 50 year experiment paid off.
The Washington Post recommends five wines to beat the heat, with a callout to Barnard Griffin.
From around the world…
The Yorkshire Post writes about scaling the Pacific heights for a decent bottle of wine.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about the Auction of Washington Wine raising $3M.
The Chicago Tribune gives 12 Oregon Pinots that prove the 50 year experiment paid off.
The Washington Post recommends five wines to beat the heat, with a callout to Barnard Griffin.

Let harvest begin!
Pictures courtesy of Damon LaLonde (left picture) and Landon Sam Kiersey.

Click on the picture to see a larger image.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from August 1st to 7th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Greenville News writes about Columbia Winery.
From the blogosphere…
Great Northwest Wine writes about Red Mountain. They also write about Chateau Ste Michelle focusing on aged Riesling, a wild fire barely missing DavenLore Winery, and DANCIN Vineyards.
Washington Wine Blog writes about Alexandria Nicole.
From around the country…
Greenville News writes about Columbia Winery.
From the blogosphere…
Great Northwest Wine writes about Red Mountain. They also write about Chateau Ste Michelle focusing on aged Riesling, a wild fire barely missing DavenLore Winery, and DANCIN Vineyards.
Washington Wine Blog writes about Alexandria Nicole.
The following are some of the standout wines from recent tastings.
Adams Bench Cabernet Sauvignon Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley 2013 $70
Adams Bench has made a name for itself on the strength of its Cabernet and this is an impressive addition to the lineup, full of rich black fruit flavors and firm, chewy tannins.
Angel Vine Zinfandel Alder Ridge Vineyard Columbia Valley 2012 $24
Angel Vine focuses largely on Zinfandel and Primitivo and crafts some of the most compelling versions of these varieties the state has to offer. Raspberry and cranberry aromas lead to tart, broad fruit flavors that show a fine sense of balance.
Adams Bench Cabernet Sauvignon Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley 2013 $70
Adams Bench has made a name for itself on the strength of its Cabernet and this is an impressive addition to the lineup, full of rich black fruit flavors and firm, chewy tannins.
Angel Vine Zinfandel Alder Ridge Vineyard Columbia Valley 2012 $24
Angel Vine focuses largely on Zinfandel and Primitivo and crafts some of the most compelling versions of these varieties the state has to offer. Raspberry and cranberry aromas lead to tart, broad fruit flavors that show a fine sense of balance.

Below are my Wine Enthusiast reviews for September 2016. Wines are listed alphabetically by winery. Read additional information on how I review wines here. All of these reviews are freely available on-line at the Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide. There is also a freely available Wine Enthusiast Tasting Guide app. See previous Wine Enthusiast reviews re-published in this space here. Search Wine Enthusiast's on-line database here.
283 wines reviewed in the September issue of Wine Enthusiast. EFESTE leads the way with a strong set of red, white, and rosé releases. A few particular standouts are the Boushey and Red Willow Syrahs (EFESTE 2013 Jolie Bouche Boushey Vineyard Syrah Yakima Valley $44, 92 points; EFESTE 2013 Eleni Red Willow Vineyard Syrah Yakima Valley $54, 92 points); a standout second vintage of the Oldfield Rosé (EFESTE 2015 Oldfield Estate Rosé Yakima Valley $22, 92 points; and finally a stellar oyster wine in the Feral Sauvignon Blanc (EFESTE 2015 Feral Evergreen Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc Ancient Lakes $20, 91 points).
The following is an excerpt from the September 2016 Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide.
Washington State is generally known for the consistent quality and style of its wines, largely thanks to warm summers and irrigation. Recent vintages, however, have resulted in wines that show dramatic stylistic differences.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from July 1st to 7th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Sports Illustrated writes about Doubleback.
Brides writes about a Washington wine country honeymoon.
D Magazine recommends some Washington reds.
From around the country…
Sports Illustrated writes about Doubleback.
Brides writes about a Washington wine country honeymoon.
D Magazine recommends some Washington reds.

The following are some of the standout wines from my tastings last month.
B. Leighton Gratitude Red Wine Yakima Valley 2013 $45
Mourvèdre (70%) takes the lead on this GSM blend which puts a premium on purity. It’s loaded with mesmerizing aromas and flavors of cranberry, black pepper, orange peel and dried herbs, showing - a flat out stunner.
Block Wines Golden Block Grenache Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley Washington 2014 $35
It’s impossible to drink Grenache from Boushey Vineyard and not think about how he once swore never to plant the variety due to its notorious cold tenderness. Grenache clearly excels there, as shown by this lush, pure offering, which comes from Full Pull Wines.
B. Leighton Gratitude Red Wine Yakima Valley 2013 $45
Mourvèdre (70%) takes the lead on this GSM blend which puts a premium on purity. It’s loaded with mesmerizing aromas and flavors of cranberry, black pepper, orange peel and dried herbs, showing - a flat out stunner.
Block Wines Golden Block Grenache Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley Washington 2014 $35
It’s impossible to drink Grenache from Boushey Vineyard and not think about how he once swore never to plant the variety due to its notorious cold tenderness. Grenache clearly excels there, as shown by this lush, pure offering, which comes from Full Pull Wines.

The July issue contains a strong set of releases from Gramercy Cellars. While the winery’s Rhone-style wines always dazzle (Gramercy 2013 The Third Man Grenache Columbia Valley $42, 92 points; Gramercy 2013 The Deuce Syrah Walla Walla Valley $54, 93 points), its Cabernet Sauvignon (Gramercy 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $48, 93 points) is impossible to ignore. Additionally, some of the best values out there can be found in the winery’s Lower East series (Gramercy 2013 Lower East Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $28, 92 points; Gramercy 2013 Lower East Syrah Columbia Valley $28, 93 points).
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from June 1st to 7th 2016. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes that Oregon homes in on Chardonnay.
From the blogosphere…
Great Northwest wine writes that 2016 tracks ahead of 2015. They also write that wineries hope to restore glory to Sunnyside, Syrah playing a vital role in Northwest blends, and Amelia Wynn finding a home on Bainbridge Island.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes that Oregon homes in on Chardonnay.
From the blogosphere…
Great Northwest wine writes that 2016 tracks ahead of 2015. They also write that wineries hope to restore glory to Sunnyside, Syrah playing a vital role in Northwest blends, and Amelia Wynn finding a home on Bainbridge Island.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from May 22nd to May 31st 2016. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast writes that Willamette Valley moves in to Walla Walla.
Orange Coast magazine writes that there is more to love in Oregon than Pinot Noir.
Journal Review (Indiana) writes about white wine.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast writes that Willamette Valley moves in to Walla Walla.
Orange Coast magazine writes that there is more to love in Oregon than Pinot Noir.
Journal Review (Indiana) writes about white wine.

See a complete list of print articles, most with links, here.
Enjoy!
The following is an excerpt from an article in the June-July issue of Vineyard Winery Management magazine.
Since Gary Figgins and his family planted the first modern-day grape- vines in the Walla Walla Valley at Leonetti Cellar in 1977, the region has been a crucial part of Washington state’s wine identity. However, the knock on Walla Walla, for many years, was it was home to numerous wineries and tasting rooms (cur- rently more than 120) but few vineyards. Decades later, while many local wineries still source fruit from throughout the larger Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley is flour- ishing as a grapegrowing region, with sev- eral new areas being explored to broaden its offerings and impact.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from May 15th to 21st. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wines and Vines writes that Whitman sells again.
The Cape Gazette (Delware) writes about Oregon.
From the blogosphere…
Great Northwest Wine writes about the rise and fall of Lemberger. They also write about the groundbreaking at Pambrun, the Oregon Wine Board’s first touring guide, and Seattle gearing up for Riesling Rendezvous.
From around the country…
Wines and Vines writes that Whitman sells again.
The Cape Gazette (Delware) writes about Oregon.
From the blogosphere…
Great Northwest Wine writes about the rise and fall of Lemberger. They also write about the groundbreaking at Pambrun, the Oregon Wine Board’s first touring guide, and Seattle gearing up for Riesling Rendezvous.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from May 8th to 14th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
The St. Cloud Times writes about the 14 Hands Sauvignon Blanc.
D Magazine writes about the Salud wine auction.
From the blogosphere…
Ship Compliant gives an overview of the Washington wine market.
From around the country…
The St. Cloud Times writes about the 14 Hands Sauvignon Blanc.
D Magazine writes about the Salud wine auction.
From the blogosphere…
Ship Compliant gives an overview of the Washington wine market.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from May 1st to 7th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about Kyle MacLachlan of Pursued by Bear.
D Magazine writes about wines for mom.
St Cloud Times writes about the Milbrandt Malbec.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about Kyle MacLachlan of Pursued by Bear.
D Magazine writes about wines for mom.
St Cloud Times writes about the Milbrandt Malbec.
This past month I tasted strong sets of new releases from Ardor Cellars, Baer Winery, EFESTE, and Kerloo Cellars to name just a few. Below are some highlights from these wineries and others.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from April 22nd to 30th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes that Washington red develop a bite.
The Cape Gazette writes that Oregon wines can suit any palate.
San Diego Reader writes about Buty’s Beast.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes that Washington red develop a bite.
The Cape Gazette writes that Oregon wines can suit any palate.
San Diego Reader writes about Buty’s Beast.
Returning from a long pause, a round-up of stories on Northwest wine from April 15th to 21st. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about Jackson Family acquiring Penner Ash. They also write about Ste Michelle Wine Estates purchasing Patz & Hall.
Wines & Vines writes about Ste. Michelle flipping the script on buyouts.
D Magazine recommends several Northwest whites.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about Jackson Family acquiring Penner Ash. They also write about Ste Michelle Wine Estates purchasing Patz & Hall.
Wines & Vines writes about Ste. Michelle flipping the script on buyouts.
D Magazine recommends several Northwest whites.



Windrow Vineyard and Tero Estates co-owner Jan Roskelley, who took the pictures, said this is about two weeks ahead of historical averages. In 2012 - a year with heat accumulation that tracked closely to 20-year averages, we posted images of Windrow Nebbiolo bud break on April 6th. It looks like 2016 will be the fourth consecutive early start to Washington's growing season.

You can see the entire guide here.
Enjoy!

1. It’s a big wine world out there
If ever there were any doubt about how much wine is out there in the world and how much competition there is, attending ProWein would quickly remove it. Over 50 different countries were represented, from well-known regions like France to up-and-comers like Uruguay.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from March 1st to 14th 2016. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Shanken Daily News writes that Oregon wine’s US sales will cross 3M cases. They also write about Kobrand launching Resonance Wines.
The San Diego Union-Tribune says that the Cadence Coda is the Chalize Theron of wine.
Wine Enthusiast writes that the Willamette Valley AVA gets bigger. They also write about Andrew Beckham.
From around the country…
Shanken Daily News writes that Oregon wine’s US sales will cross 3M cases. They also write about Kobrand launching Resonance Wines.
The San Diego Union-Tribune says that the Cadence Coda is the Chalize Theron of wine.
Wine Enthusiast writes that the Willamette Valley AVA gets bigger. They also write about Andrew Beckham.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from February 22nd to 29th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast writes about urban wineries, with callouts to Charles Smith and Eight Bells (Seattle section by yours truly).
Wines and Vines writes about the Northwest dealing with large harvests.
Wine Spectator writes about wineries opting for cork.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast writes about urban wineries, with callouts to Charles Smith and Eight Bells (Seattle section by yours truly).
Wines and Vines writes about the Northwest dealing with large harvests.
Wine Spectator writes about wineries opting for cork.

A lot of exciting wines in the March issue. Sleight of Hand Cellars - already a consistent standout producer - has crafted some of their best wines to date, with the Sleight of Hand 2013 The Sorceress Grenache Columbia Valley ($60, 93 points); 2013 Psychedelic Stoney Vine Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley ($60, 95 points); and 2013 Levitation Syrah Columbia Valley ($45, 93 points).
A look at some of the top wines from my tastings this month. Formal reviews to be published in Wine Enthusiast.
There were a large number of standout wines in my tastings this month, some of which are listed below. Of particular note are recent releases from Gramercy Cellars. As I noted on the WWR Facebook page recently, I sample these wines over more than a week’s time and they sung happily along the whole time. Impressive to see, especially from a warm vintage. The wines are all notable for their focus on purity and texture. I didn’t list them below in the interest of space but the winery’s 2013 Lower East Cabernet and 2012 The Deuece Syrah are also well worth a look. To the wines!


“Capturing the choreography of the perfect pour is an ongoing source of fascination for me,” he notes. “I’m drawn to the symmetry of the glasses, the swirl of the wine as it paints the inside of the glass. It's a welcome way to wait for spring and bud break.”
Click on the picture to see a larger image. See previous Pic of the Vine images here. Enjoy!
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from February 15th to 21st. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
The New York Times writes about the reinvention of Walla Walla’s wine country.
Shanken Daily News writes about Vintus partnering with Ponzi.
From around the country…
The New York Times writes about the reinvention of Walla Walla’s wine country.
Shanken Daily News writes about Vintus partnering with Ponzi.


There are two seminars that I will be moderating this year. Saturday, April 2nd from 10:30-12pm, I will be moderating a panel on Washington Cabernet titled, "King Cab! An exploration of Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon." We'll be tasting a selection of Cabernet from around the state and talking about what makes Washington Cabernet distinct. Joining me on the panel will be Sarah Goedhart (Hedges Family Estate), Linn Scott (Sparkman Cellars), Rick Small (Woodward Canyon Winery) and Josh Maloney (Maloney Wine & Milbrandt Vineyards). See the lineup of wines we'll be sampling here. Come say hello!

July 2015 reviews
September 2015 reviews
November 2015 reviews
Tomorrow I will be posting scores from December 2015 along with some text about some of the wines. I will post scores published thus far this year next week. If you have any questions or find any issues, please let me know.
Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Enjoy!
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from February 1st to 14th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast writes about Washington wine (article by yours truly). They also write about Gamay two ways.
Wines and Vines writes that water management is key to growth in Washington. They also write that grape growers look ahead.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast writes about Washington wine (article by yours truly). They also write about Gamay two ways.
Wines and Vines writes that water management is key to growth in Washington. They also write that grape growers look ahead.

You can see a complete list of publications, most with weblinks or .pdf downloads, here. Enjoy!
Cabernet back on top as the state’s most produced grape
In somewhat of a surprise, wine grape production in Washington contracted slightly in 2015 to 222,000 tons, down 2% from the prior year. The decrease was largely a result of a drop in white wine grape production, which decreased 8%. Riesling saw the most dramatic decrease, from 50,500 tons in 2014 down to 44,100 tons.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from January 22nd to 31st. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about the sale of Seven Hills Winery.
Minnesota Monthly writes about Washington wine at the Minnesota Food & Wine Experience.
San Antonio Current writes about rogue reds.
From around the country…
Wine Spectator writes about the sale of Seven Hills Winery.
Minnesota Monthly writes about Washington wine at the Minnesota Food & Wine Experience.
San Antonio Current writes about rogue reds.
A look at some of the top wines from my tastings this month. Formal reviews to be published in Wine Enthusiast.
Starting off an inaugural 'Wines of the Month' column and I can't imagine better wines to do it with. Winemaker Morgan Lee at Two Vintners in Woodinville has always impressed with wines that display a combination of quality and value. However, Lee’s 2013 releases take things to a new level. The four wines below are all (very) highly recommended. They are easily some of the most exciting wines I've come across in the past few months and only pick up steam on the second and third day.


“Winter is crucial to healthy vines and great grapes,” he noted. “Relying on energy stored through the growing season, vines can weather the cold, which, in fact, helps produce higher quality grapes come the new season.”
Click on the picture to see a larger image. See previous Pic of the Vine images here.
A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from January 15th to 21st 2016. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the world…
Decanter writes about Jackson Family purchase Oregon property.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast writes about Oregon’s golden era.
From around the world…
Decanter writes about Jackson Family purchase Oregon property.
From around the country…
Wine Enthusiast writes about Oregon’s golden era.
A round-up of recent articles on Northwest wine from January 8th to 14th. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
Los Angeles Magazine writes about Charles Smith.
The Marco Island Times (Florida) writes about Milbrandt.
Trefis writes that Altria’s wine segment is a top performer.
From around the country…
Los Angeles Magazine writes about Charles Smith.
The Marco Island Times (Florida) writes about Milbrandt.
Trefis writes that Altria’s wine segment is a top performer.

See other recent publications, most with web or downloadable links, here.
Enjoy!
The following is excerpted from the January/February issue of Vineyard & Winery Management magazine.
Washington
“The overwhelming factor in 2015 in Washington was heat,” said winemaker Mike Macmorran of Mark Ryan Winery in Woodinville. “It was relentless.”
Indeed, many viticulture regions saw record heat, with Red Mountain accumulating more than 3,900 growing degree-days, and even cooler regions such as the Yakima Valley getting more than 3,150. Starting in February, temperatures were considerably above average, leading to an advancement of all markers of the growing season.
Washington

Indeed, many viticulture regions saw record heat, with Red Mountain accumulating more than 3,900 growing degree-days, and even cooler regions such as the Yakima Valley getting more than 3,150. Starting in February, temperatures were considerably above average, leading to an advancement of all markers of the growing season.
Back to the business of blogging. A round-up of articles on Northwest wine from January 1st to 7th 2016. Read previous round-ups here.
From around the country…
The New York Times says Oregon Pinot Noir delivers an element of surprise.
Wine Spectator says the excitement right now is in Oregon.
The Minneapolis Star recommends the Underwood Pinot Gris.
From around the country…
The New York Times says Oregon Pinot Noir delivers an element of surprise.
Wine Spectator says the excitement right now is in Oregon.
The Minneapolis Star recommends the Underwood Pinot Gris.
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On December 30th, Walla Walla Valley’s Basel Cellars was purchased by a group of local businessmen. The group includes individuals who fou...
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When Kevin and Kathryn Mueller launched Virtue Cellars in 2017, they eschewed the popular winery locations of Woodinville and SoDo. Instea...
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Another year, another challenge. Each year for these Washington wine challenges, I’ve focused on an underappreciated grape variety that ...
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January's Virtual Tasting is tonight from 7-8pm Pacific . Read about how to participate here . The incidence of cork taint has been va...

Editor

Sean P. Sullivan is the editor of Washington Wine Report and a contributing editor at Wine Enthusiast magazine, covering Washington and Idaho. He has been writing about and reviewing Washington wine since 2005.


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14 Hands
2010 Initiatives
Abbey Page
Abeja
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Airfield Estates
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Cartel Wine Group
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City Limits
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Concentric Wine Project
Cooper Wine Company
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Domaine Pouillon
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Double Canyon
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Dowsett Family Winery
DuBrul Vineyard
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Duckhorn
Dumas Station
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Dusted Valley
Dynasty Cellars
Efeste
Eight Bells
El Corazon
Eliseo Silva
Elsom Cellars
Ensemble Cellars
Envious Cellars
Erath
Eritage
Estrin Estates
Eyrie
Fall Line
Falling Rain
Fidelitas Winery
Fielding Hills WInery
Figgins
Five Star Cellars
Fjellene
Flying Dreams
Flying Trout
For a Song
Force Majeure
Forgeron
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Gard Vintners
Giant Wine Co
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Haystack Needle
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Hedges Family Estate
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Hoodsport
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Horsepower Vineyards
Hyatt Vineyards
Idilico
Intrinsic
Isenhower Cellars
Januik Winery
JB Neufeld
JM Cellars
Jones of Washington
Juliette's Dazzle
K Vintners
Kaella Winery
Kerloo
Kevin White
Kiona
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L'Ecole
Lake Chelan AVA
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Latitude 46 North
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Lauren Ashton
Lawrelin
Leonetti Cellar
Liberty Bay Cellars
Lobo Hills
Locati Cellars
Lodmell Cellars
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Lone Canary
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Magnificent Wine Company
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Matthews Estate
McCrea Cellars
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Modern Wine Project
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Native Sun
Nefarious
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No Girls
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Northwest Wine Round-up
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NW Totem Cellars
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Obelisco Estate
Olsen Estates
OS Winery
Otis Kenyon
Ott and Murphy
Owen Roe
Pacific Rim
Palencia
Palouse
Pamplin
Pandora
Parejas
Passion
Patterson
Paul Gregutt
Pendulum
Pepper Bridge
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Pic of the Vine
Plumb Cellars
Pomum Cellars
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Portteus
Pour Me
Powers
Proletariat Wine Company
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Puget Sound
Purple Star
Quilceda Creek
Ramseyer Vineyards
Randall Harris
Rasa Vineyards
Red Diamond
Red Mountain
Red Willow
Reininger
Renegade
Result of a Crush
Rex Hill
Reynvaan Family Vineyards
RiverAerie
Riverhaven Cellars
RMV Cellars
Robert Ramsay
Robison Ranch Cellars
Ross Andrew
Rotie
Royal Slope
Rulo Winery
Russell Creek WInery
Rusty Grape Vineyard
Ryan Messer
Ryan Patrick
Sageland Vineyards
Saint Laurent
Salida Wines
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San Juan Vineyards
Sandhill
Sapolil Cellars
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Saviah Cellars
Scarborough
Screwcaps
Seattle Area Wineries
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Seven Hills Winery
Shady Grove Winery
Sheridan
Silvara
Silver Bell
Silver Lake Winery
Sineann
Six Prong
Skylite Cellars
Sleight of Hand
Smasne Cellars
Snipes Gap Vineyards
Snipes Mountain
Snoqualmie
Sockeye
Sodovino
Sol Stone
somme de parties
sonoris
Soos Creek
Sparkman Cellars
Spindrift
Spokane Area
Spring Valley
Steele Wines
Stella Fino
Stevens Winery
Stomani Cellars
Stonecap
Stottle
SuLei Cellars
Sweet Valley Winery
Swiftwater
Syncline Cellars
Syrah
SYZYGY
Tagaris
Tamarack Cellars
Tefft
Tempus
Tenor Wines
Tero Estates
Terra Blanca Winery
The Burn of Columbia Valley
The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater
Three Rivers Winery
Thurston Wolfe
Tildio
Townshend Cellar
Tranche
Treveri
Trust
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Virtual tasting
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Wine Enthusiast Scores
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Woodhouse Wine Estates
Woodinville Wine Cellars
Woodinville WIneries
Woodward Canyon Winery
Yakima Valley
Yellow Hawk Cellar
Zerba Cellars
Zero One Vintners

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October
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September
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- Northwest Wine Round-up September 15th to 21st 2016
- Now on-line - Seattle Metropolitan's Top 100 Washi...
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- Old School! Recent print publications
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May
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- Old school! Recent print publications
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- Pic of the Vine - May 2016
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- Wines of the Month - February 2016
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- Wine Enthusiast reviews for November 2015
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- Old school! Recent print publications
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