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Wine Enthusiast Reviews for November 2018

Below are my Wine Enthusiast reviews for November 2018. 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. Read instructions on how to find Washington wine reviews at Wine Enthusiast here.

181 wines reviewed in the November issue of Wine Enthusiast.

Standouts from the November issue include a strong set of releases from Reynvaan Family Vineyards. The estate’s Foothills in the Sun Vineyard is a unique site, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. Few other vineyards are nearby, but that seems likely to change at some point given Reynvaan’s impressive results (Reynvaan Family Vineyards 2015 In the Hills Estate Foothills in the Sun Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $7593 pointsReynvaan Family Vineyards 2015 Reserve Estate Foothills in the Sun Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $7592 points).

One of the things that I appreciate about Brian Carter Cellars is that the wines often have a bit more age on release than the typical Washington wine. This is to everyone’s benefit. A great example is the Brian Carter 2013 Le Coursier Columbia Valley ($4091 points).

On the value side, check out the Les Trouvés 2016 Red Blend Washington ($2090 points).

I mentioned in the October set of reviews that 2017 was the strongest vintage for Washington whites since at least 2008. The November reviews have three terrific examples, the Lobo Hills 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Yakima Valley ($1891 points); Matthews 2017 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley ($3590 points); and Poet's Leap 2017 Riesling Columbia Valley ($2091 points). Of note, the Lobo Hills wine was in my Seattle Metropolitan top 30 most exciting Washington wines of 2018.

I also noted in the October reviews some of the challenges of the 2015 vintage for red wines as well as the challenges for entry-level wines from the 2016 vintage. We see a number of examples of both in this set of reviews.

Enjoy!

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3 Horse Ranch Vineyards 2014 Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Eagle Foothills $35 86 points
Aromas of baking spice, vanilla, green herb and dried cherry are followed by ripe, quite sweet seeming fruit and barrel flavors. The tannins bring a fair amount of grit and dryness. It doesn’t all come together.

3 Horse Ranch Vineyards 2014 Single Vineyard Merlot Eagle Foothills $40 87 points
High toned, unsettled aromas of dried Rainier cherry, spice and a medicinal note are followed by tightly wound fruit flavors that taper toward the finish.

3 Horse Ranch Vineyards 2014 Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc Eagle Foothills $40 87 points
The aromas seem a bit unsettled, with notes of vanilla, green herb, graphite, cocoa powder and cherry that don’t entirely mesh. The fruit flavors are sweet and focused, but the wood seems to get a bit in the way, particularly on the finish.

3 Horse Ranch Vineyards 2016 Rosé Eagle Foothills $18 86 points
Showing just a trace of copper color, this Sangiovese rosé displays aromas of Muscat gummy and tangerine peel. It drinks dry but the rich fruit flavors give the perception of sweetness.

3 Horse Ranch Vineyards 2016 Single Vineyard Chardonnay Eagle Foothills $19 84 points
Reduced out of the gate, it’s a bit of a challenge to get at the varietal aromas. The flavors of lees, pear and star fruit provide intrigue, tapering toward the finish, with the concentration overall seeming a bit light.

Amavi 2015 Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $33 88 points
Vanilla, cherry, spice and herb aromas are followed by plump black-fruit flavors, with the tannins bringing a bit of grit and dryness on the back end. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Estate Grown Limited Varietal Selection Petit Verdot Red Mountain $75 85 points
Cedar, wood spice, herb, coffee and licorice aromas are followed by coiled-up, slightly bitter-seeming tannins. It doesn’t all work.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Estate Grown Merlot Red Mountain $38 87 pointsAll varietal, barrel aromas are out front, with notes of vanilla and exotic spice. The red-fruit flavors are lighter styled and seem ever so slightly dried out. The variety is a bit hard to find.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Estate Grown Malbec Red Mountain $38 87 points
Aromas of dark roasted coffee beans, herb and spice are followed by somewhat lighter-styled cherry flavors with a slightly tacky feel. Cherry notes persist on the finish. The variety seems hard to find.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Estate Grown Envoy Red Blend Red Mountain $38 87 points
This is an interesting blend of 27% Merlot, 21% Petit Verdot, 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Malbec, 16% Cabernet Franc and 2% Syrah. Baking spice, vanilla, cherry, herb, anise and black-fruit aromas lead to slight tacky feeling dark-fruit flavors, with the tannins bringing a light squeeze. A bitter note lingers on the finish.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Estate Grown Plenipotentiary Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $50 87 points
The aromas offer notes of anise, cassis, baking spice and cherry, with the wood out front. The fruit flavors are ripe, with a slightly gritty feel to the tannins, which also bring some bitterness. Coffee notes linger on the finish.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $38 87 points
Aromas of vanilla, baking spice, anise, cherry and whiffs of game are followed by ripe, slightly dried-out-seeming fruit flavors. There’s a light grip of tannins on the finish.

Armstrong Family 2014 Portteus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $36 86 points
Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of vanilla, green wood, dill, menthol and char, making it a challenge to get at the fruit. The fruit flavors are lighter styled, not bringing the heft to stand up to the oak.

Armstrong Family 2014 David’s Folly Yakima Valley $42 86 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (43%) and Cabernet Franc make up equal percentages of this wine, with the balance Petit Verdot. The aromas provide notes of vanilla, baking spice, fresh herb, cherry, pencil lead, dill and anise, with the oak far out front. The fruit flavors are lighter styled, not seeming fully able to stand up to the oak. Coffee notes linger on the finish.

B. Lovely 2017 Riesling Washington $13 85 points
The aromas are quite subdued for the variety, with notes of jasmine and peach struggling to get to the surface. It drinks medium sweet with a slight bitter note on the finish.

Brian Carter 2013 Le Coursier Columbia Valley $40 91 points
This wine is a blend of 54% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, 6% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot. The aromas present notes of black cherry, cedar, spice box and dried herb. The dark-fruit flavors offer a pretty sense of balance and elegance. It shows the benefits of some additional time in bottle.

Brian Carter 2014 Tuttorosso Red Blend Yakima Valley $34 87 points
Sangiovese (68%) makes up the majority of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon (18%) and Syrah. Light in color, the aromas are elusive, with notes of tree bark, anise, Red Vines and cherry. The flavors are elegant and pretty, with raspberry flavors on the finish. It doesn’t stand up on its own but should fit in nicely at the dinner table.

Brian Carter 2014 Trentenaire Columbia Valley $50 87 points
This is a unique blend of 56% Petit Verdot, 24% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Malbec. The aromas are lighter styled, with notes of char, cherry and flower. The flavors are light and elegant, showing a pretty sense of styling, with bright acidity providing the frame. It doesn’t stand up on its own but has a place at the dinner table.

Brian Carter 2015 Takahashi Columbia Valley $38 87 points
This wine dedicated to long-time assistant winemaker Robert Takahashi. A blend of 58% Malbec, 34% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc, char, baking-spice, black-tea, balsamic and blue-fruit aromas lead to elegant fruit flavors that dip in the middle.

Brian Carter 2014 One Stone Tree Vineyard Syrah Wahluke Slope $75 87 points
Coming from a blazing hot vineyard and vintage, raspberry, cranberry and barrel-spice aromas are followed by a cranberry-filled palate. The variety seems hard to place and the oak prominent.

Brian Carter 2014 ONE Dineen Vineyard Cabernet Franc Rattlesnake Hills $85 86 points
Char and toast aromas are at the fore, followed by berry and spice. The fruit flavors are light and elegant. There are good things going on but the aromas and palate don’t seem to line up and the barrel influence is a bit intense.

Bumble & Boom 2016 Riesling Columbia Valley $15 83 points
Aromas of fruit cocktail, herb and plastic are followed by medium-sweet fruit flavors. The concentration seems quite light.

Cadaretta 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $35 86 points
Light aromas of cherry, blueberry and wood spice are followed by lighter-styled fruit flavors. It falls a bit flat on the finish, not coming together. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Cadaretta 2015 Windthrow Columbia Valley $50 87 points
A blend of 84% Syrah, 10% Grenache and 6% Mourvèdre, light aromas of boysenberry and spice are followed by lighter-styled fruit flavors. It doesn’t all seem to work. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Cadaretta 2015 Southwind Syrah Walla Walla Valley $60 87 points
Coming from an up-and-coming area of the valley, aromas of peeled orange, wild flower, fresh herb, barrel spice and mountain blueberry are followed by somewhat lighter-styled fruit flavors, with a firm squeeze of slightly bitter tannins. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Cadaretta 2015 Southwind Malbec Walla Walla Valley $65 87 points
Fruit for this wine comes from the winery’s recently planted estate vineyard in the SeVein project. Aromas of cherry and spice lead to a highly structured palate, with slightly gritty tannins. The middle seems a bit missing. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Callan 2016 MC2 Columbia Valley $38 88 points
This wine is half Malbec and half Cabernet Sauvignon. The aromas of plum, herb and tar provide appeal, expressing these two varieties well. The palate is medium bodied with abundant blue-fruit flavors on the finish.

Callan 2016 Cabernet Franc Yakima Valley $32 87 points
Aromas of garden herb, orange peel and cherry give way to ripe, slightly sweet-seeming orange-peel and cherry flavors. There’s no question of the variety or appellation.

Callan NV Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Blend Columbia Valley $47 88 points
Fresh fruity aromas of brioche, raspberry, rose hips, citrus and spice are followed by bright tart fruit flavors, with plentiful lees accents. Apple notes linger on the finish.

Cana's Feast 2015 Bricco Red Blend Columbia Valley $18 87 points
Sangiovese makes up half of this wine, with the balance Malbec, Barbera, Syrah and Primitivo. Aromas of dried cherry, licorice and dried currant lead to tart cherry flavors with a zing of acidity. The fruit seems a bit dried out but it’s an otherwise interesting wine that should fit in well at the dinner table.

Charles Smith 2016 Boom Boom! Syrah Washington $18 85 points
Starting out a bit reduced, the aromas open to reveal notes of berry, herb and orange peel. The fruit flavors are straight down the fairway, if seeming a bit innocuous, with the concentration light with a candied finish.

Charles Smith 2016 Velvet Devil Merlot Washington $13 83 points
Strong aromas of green pepper, herb and currant lead to quite lightly styled fruit flavors. It all seems quite underripe.

Cinder 2016 Dry Viognier Snake River Valley (ID) $18 89 points
Fermented and aged in stainless steel, this wine is a blend of fruit from Sawtooth, Martin and Williamson vineyards. Bright aromas of tangerine, mouthwatering ripe peach and honeysuckle lead to plentiful stone fruit flavors that glide on the apricot-filled finish.

Col Solare 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $85 89 points
Being 100% varietal, blue-fruit aromas are at the fore, with notes of blueberry and huckleberry in front of spice—very unusual for Cabernet. The flavors are plump in style with firm tannins that don’t quite seem to have fully ripened.

Columbia Crest 2015 Grand Estates Red Blend Columbia Valley $87 87 points
Merlot makes up over half of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and other varieties. The aromas are brooding, with high-toned notes of herb, cherry, vanilla, chocolate and spice. The flavors show a mix of fruit and barrel, with the tannins seeming a bit dry. Coffee and vanilla notes persist on the finish.

Columbia Crest 2014 Walter Clore Private Reserve Bordeaux-style Red Blend Columbia Valley $35 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (46%) and Merlot (36%) make up most of this wine, which is finished off with Cabernet Franc and Malbec. The aromas bring notes of herb, cherry and vanilla. The cherry flavors bring a slightly gritty feel. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Columbia Crest 2016 Grand Estates Syrah Columbia Valley $12 85 points
The aromas come out of the gate seeming a bit reduced, opening to reveal notes of berry and tar. The coffee and berry flavors seem extremely light, trailing on the finish.

Columbia Crest 2016 Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $12 86 points
Coffee, herb and cherry aromas are at the fore, with an ever so slightly burnt note in the background. The palate is light but flavorful, showing a sense of elegance. The concentration seems to be missing in the middle.

Columbia Winery 2016 Red Blend Columbia Valley $14 86 points
Merlot and Syrah make up the majority of this blend. Aromas of raspberry, plum, blueberry, herb and whiffs of tire rubber are followed by straight down the fairway, quite lightly styled fruit flavors. It’s enjoyable but comes off as quite light.

Desert Wind 2016 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Wahluke Slope $18 85 points
Vanilla bean, pencil eraser and licorice aromas lead to light but creamy-feeling vanilla-extract flavors. The oak influence seems primary, without the fruit to stand up to it.

Desert Wind 2016 Estate Grown Ruah Proprietary Red Blend Wahluke Slope $20 85 points
Plum, vanilla bean and spice aromas lead to lighter-styled fruit and vanilla flavors. There’s enjoyment to be had, but the concentration seems quite light.

Desert Wind 2016 Estate Grown Merlot Wahluke Slope $18 86 points
Cherry and spice aromas lead to graceful fruit flavors, with plentiful vanilla accents. Herb notes linger on the finish. The concentration seems light and the vanilla notes a bit heavy.

Desert Wind 2017 Estate Grown Chardonnay Wahluke Slope $15 82 points
Quite light aromas lead to washed-out-seeming fruit flavors. The variety and vintage are hard to place.

Drink Washington State 2016 Dip Into Lake Chelan Pinot Noir Lake Chelan $29 86 points
Extremely pale in color with an orange rim, the aromas are presently hard to get at, with light notes of strawberryies, cherries and twigs emerging over time. The cherry flavors are light but juicy with raspberry notes on the finish. There are some good things happening, but it all seems a bit faint.

Duck Pond 2017 Chardonnay Columbia Valley $12 82 points
The aromas bring a slightly tinny note that distracts. The palate seems to fall flat, without the concentration or structure to hold it together.

Dunham 2016 Shirley Mays Chardonnay Columbia Valley $25 85 points
Aromas of custard, funk and corn-on-the-cob lead to lightly creamy-feeling fruit flavors. The concentration waxes and wanes throughout, at times coming off as quite light.

Dunham 2015 Trutina Columbia Valley $29 85 points
This wine is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 10% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of blueberry, herb, vanilla and toasty spices lead to very lightly styled cherry and vanilla flavors. The flavors seem a bit washed out, with the oak way out front.

Dunham 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $35 86 points
Aromas of char, coffee bean, vanilla and berry are followed by light but creamy feeling flavors that dip in the middle, showing a mixture of fruit and barrel. It doesn’t all come off.

Dunham 2015 XXI Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $45 88 points
Aromas of vanilla extract, wood spice, plum and cherry are followed by restrained fruit and barrel flavors. The oak seems a bit intense for the fruit that is in the glass.

Dunham 2016 Three Legged Red Blend Washington $19 87 points
Strong notes of vanilla extract, coconut, cherry and berry are followed by ripe, plump but still lighter-styled cherry and raspberry flavors. The oak plays a prominent part in the show but there’s still enjoyment to be had.

Elsom 2011 Red Blend Columbia Valley $32 84 points
This wine is near equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, finished off with a dash of Syrah. The aromas show some volatility, along with notes of vanilla and dried cherry. The cherry and green-pepper flavors are lighter styled, with tart cranberry-like acidity. Green-pepper notes linger on the finish.

Elsom 2011 Logan Red Blend Columbia Valley $42 83 points
A blend of 80% Malbec and 20% Syrah, strong scents of vanilla, coconut shavings, green pepper, white pepper and dried cherry are followed by quite light fruit flavors that trail on the finish. There’s not enough fruit to stand up to the oak.

Elsom 2011 Isabella Red Blend Columbia Valley $42 85 points
Coming from the exceptionally cool 2011 vintage, this wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec and Merlot. The aromas are high toned, with notes of cherry and licorice. The palate is lighter in style, with the concentration not seeming all there. Drink now.

Eternal 2017 Insight Marsanne Columbia Valley $29 87 points
Fruit for this wine comes from Boushey Vineyard. Aromas of dried apple and spice are followed by creamy-feeling fruit flavors. It’s equal parts intrigue and delivery.

Eternal 2017 Perspective Grenache Blanc Columbia Valley $29 87 points
Painted Hills Vineyard provides the fruit for this wine. The aromas are light, with notes of candle wax, lemon balm, peach and flower. The palate is sleek in style, with the flavors trailing on the back half.

Eternal 2017 Beauty Rosé Columbia Valley $21 86 points
This is all Grenache coming from French Creek Vineyard. Extremely pale in color, looking almost more like a white wine than a rosé, the aromas suggest notes of lees, raspberry and spice, with palate bringing more of the same. It doesn’t all seem to come together.

Eternal 2015 Privelege Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley $59 88 points
A mere one barrel was produced of this wine. Dried herb aromas and flavors are at the fore, followed by green pepper, baking spice, dill and cherry. Lighter styled, it shows a pretty sense of nuance, with fruit and barrel playing off each other. Coffee and vanilla notes linger on the finish.

Eufloria NV Aromatic White Blend Washington $6 87 points
A canned wine offering, this is a blend of Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Muscat and Pinot Gris. Aromas of lychee, muscat, orange peel and honeysuckle lead to very spritzy off-dry stone-fruit flavors. The spritz seems distracting but once it flattens out the wine behind it is quite nice. Stuff it in the backpack for the summit. Best Buy

Eufloria NV Aromatic Rosé Washington $6 86 points
This wine comes in a can. Up-front aromas of lychee, flower and peach are followed by spritzy fruit flavors. It provides easy-drinking appeal. The spritziness seems distracting, but once it flattens out, it’s very enjoyable. Best Buy

Full Pull & Friends 2011 CVBDX Columbia Valley $34 89 points
This wine is a full seven years old, coming from the exceptionally cool 2011 vintage. Appealing aromas of berry, black currant, cassis and herb lead to well-balanced fruit flavors. It shows a lovely sense of poise, showing the benefits that this challenging vintage can offer.

Full Pull & Friends NV Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature Sparkling Blend Columbia Valley $23 88 points
Examples of this style are rare in the state. Aromas of baked bread and citrus lead to light sharp-edged fruit flavors. It delivers a pleasing elegance. Light smoky notes persist on the finish.

Gruet NV Brut Rosé Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Blend America $17 87 points
This wine is made exclusively from Pinot Noir. A pretty pale salmon color, the aromas bring notes of baked bread and strawberry, with quite tart fruit flavors backed by lively acidity.

Hightower 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $40 87 points
The aromas are brooding, opening with notes of barrel spice, green tea, green pepper, graphite and herb. There’s a pretty sense of elegance to the light fruit flavors that taper toward the herb-filled finish.

Hightower 2015 Reserve Red Mountain $55 87 points
This wine is almost all Cabernet Sauvignon, topped off with Malbec (14%). The aromas bring notes of fresh and dried herb, wet stick, dried cherry and a medicinal note. The palate is light, pretty and reserved in style. There’s interest to be had but it seems a bit dried out. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

JM Cellars 2016 Champoux Vineyard Merlot Horse Heaven Hills $55 87 points
Green herb, cherry, soil, coffee, cedar and flower aromas lead to sweet, somewhat lighter-styled green-tea and cherry flavors that paint around the edges. There are good things going on, but it comes off as quite green for the variety.

JM Cellars 2015 Boushey Vineyard Syrah Yakima Valley $50 90 points
This wine comes from one of the state’s premier Syrah vineyards. Inviting aromas of bacon fat, mineral, herb, flower and dark fruit are followed by ripe full-bodied fruit flavors. The style is quite rich but brings enjoyment.

JM Cellars 2015 Tre Faniciulli Red Blend Red Mountain $49 87 points
Half Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance Merlot (33%) and Syrah (17%), toast, raspberry, coffee and herb aromas are followed by lightly styled fruit flavors that seem to paint around the edges, missing in the middle. Coffee notes linger on the finish. The concentration seems light, especially for the vintage and appellation, but what’s there is interesting.

Kiona 2016 Estate Grown Lemberger Red Mountain $15 86 points
The aromas are perfumed, with traces of orange zest and flower, along with notes of blueberry. The blueberry and flower flavors are lighter styled, shortening on the finish. It’s an unusual offering of the variety.

Kiona 2016 Estate Grown Merlot Red Mountain $25 86 points
Lighter-styled aromas of red fruit are followed by elegant cherry flavors. The concentration seems quite light.

Kiona 2017 Estate Grown Ice Wine Chenin Blanc Red Mountain $50 91 points
The aromas are generous, with notes of dried pineapple, mango and apricot. The stone-fruit and tropical-fruit flavors are rich, sweet and focused, showing a lovely sense of balance that carries through the finish. Bright acidity provides the frame.

Kirkland Signature 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $9 84 points
There’s no question of the variety, with its notes of dried and fresh herb along with green pepper. The cherry flavors are light, with the tannins bringing a lightly gritty feel.

Kontos 2015 Seven Hills Vineyard Malbec Walla Walla Valley $53 85 points
Maraschino cherry, anise and vanilla aromas lead to lightly sweet-seeming fruit flavors. It doesn’t all work.

Kontos 2015 Malbec Walla Walla Valley $45 86 points
Herb, coffee, green tea and wood spice aromas lead to light coffee and chocolate flavors. The wood seems to get in the way of the plum flavors.

Kontos 2014 Progeny Red Blend Walla Walla Valley $63 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up half of this wine, with the rest 25% Merlot, 17% Malbec and 8% Syrah. Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of coconut shavings and freshly hew wood. Dark-fruit flavors fill the palate with the tannins giving a slight squeeze. Coconut flavors persist on the finish. The oak seems dominant.

Kontos 2015 Les Collines Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $41 86 points
Lightly volatile seeming aromas of raspberry cobbler, barrel spice, vanilla and cherry lead to sweet full-bodied raspberry and cherry flavors. It doesn’t all work.

Kontos 2014 Merlot Walla Walla Valley $39 86 points
Light aromas of soil, dried herb, dried cranberry, licorice, barrel and cherry are followed by anise and cranberry-filled flavors that trail on the finish. It doesn’t all seem to come together, with the structure seeming lacking.

Kontos 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $41 87 points
Anise, cherry candy, vanilla and spice aromas are followed by straightforward fruit flavors backed by soft tannins. It’s an easy-drinking offering of the variety, wanting a bit more structure to pull it all together.

Kontos 2014 Alatus Walla Walla Valley $41 87 points
A blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 17% Malbec, high-toned aromas of maraschino cherry, vanilla, baking spice, medicine and black cherry lead to rich, extracted dark-fruit and vanilla flavors. The tannins show a bit of grittiness. A warm finish follows.

Kontos 2017 Gossamer White Blend Columbia Valley $29 90 points
A unique blend of Chardonnay (62%), Roussanne (34%) and Orange Muscat, the aromas provide light notes of cream, apple, tangerine and spice. There’s a pleasing sense of texture and freshness on the palate, followed by a clean orange-blossom-filled finish. It shows a pleasing sense of balance.

Lagana 2017 Eritage Vineyard Chardonnay Walla Walla Valley $25 88 points
This is the first wine to be released off this recently planted vineyard. Fermented and aged in stainless steel, aromas of red and yellow apple, kiwi and pineapple are followed by fresh tangy stone and tropical-fruit flavors. It shows promise.

Lagana 2017 Breezy Slope Vineyard Pinot Noir Rosé Walla Walla Valley $20 85 points
A pale-salmon color with an orange tinge, aromas of strawberry, herb and flower lead to a broad palate with plentiful apple flavors. It doesn’t all work.

Lagana 2015 Nox Perpetua Seven Hills Vineyard Cabernet Franc Walla Walla Valley $35 87 points
Lighter in color, pleasing aromas of garden herbs, fresh tobacco and tire rubber are followed by plump fruit flavors that dip in the middle. It wants a bit more structure to pull it all together but intrigues all the same.

Lagana 2015 Nox Perpetua Patina Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $30 85 points
The aromas provide notes of wet penny, black pepper, damp sagebrush, anise and cherry. The sweet cherry and raspberry flavors seem to have a slight metallic tinge. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Lagana 2014 Sagemoor Vineyards Riesling Columbia Valley $16 85 points
There’s a strong metallic and new tire rubber tinge to the aromas, along with whiffs of diesel. The palate falls flat, with abundant canned peach and Nestea Iced Tea flavors. It seems past peak.

Les Trouvés 2016 White Blend Washington $20 88 points
A blend of 44% Viognier, 37% Marsanne and 19% Roussanne, aromas of wet stone, apple and peach are followed by lighter-styled stone fruit-flavors that finish warm.

Les Trouvés 2016 Red Blend Washington $20 90 points
Grenache (56%) is out front on this blend, which also contains 29% Syrah and 15% Mourvèdre. Somewhat light in color, the aromas pop with notes of orange peel, black pepper and huckleberry. There’s a lovely sense of elegance on the palate, which is seamless straight through the warm finish. Editor's Choice

Lobo Hills 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $25 88 points
The aromas are locked up initially, with notes of cedar, herb, cherry and anise. The palate is similarly wound up, with a tight core of tannins that still need some time to settle in.

Lobo Hills 2015 StoneTree Vineyard Petit Verdot Wahluke Slope $30 88 points
Herb, dark soil and cherry-candy aromas lead to well-balanced fruit flavors with a lick of tannins. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best.

Lobo Hills 2013 Right Bank Blend Lonesome Springs Ranch Bordeaux-style Red Blend Yakima Valley $30 87 points
Merlot makes up 64% of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc. Lightly colored with a slight orange tinge, the aromas pop, with notes of raspberry jam, herb and spice. The flavors are quite elegantly styled, not able to deliver on the aromas’ promise.

Lobo Hills 2015 Lonesome Springs Ranch Cabernet Franc Yakima Valley $30 88 points
Aromas of baking spice, vanilla, herb and high-toned cherry cola are followed by lighter-styled fruit and herb flavors. It provides intrigue.

Lobo Hills 2013 Syrah-Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $40 88 points
Grapes from Stonetree Vineyard Syrah makes up the bulk (80%) of this wine, with the balance Red Mountain Cab. Herb, coffee, vanilla and barrel-spice aromas are followed by fruit and barrel flavors that are reserved in style and persist on the coffee-filled finish.

Lobo Hills 2017 Dry Riesling Yakima Valley $16 88 points
The aromas are redolent with notes of honeysuckle, ripe peach and floral soap. Rare for the state, it drinks bone dry, with a light sleek feel. Pair it with food to see it shine.

Lobo Hills 2014 StoneTree Vineyard Barbera Wahluke Slope $30 88 points
Examples of this variety are rare in this state, with this one coming from a hot site and vintage. Blackberry seed, anise, herb stem and dark-plum aromas are followed by rich ripe cherry flavors that persist on the finish. It’s equal parts intrigue and delivery.

Lobo Hills 2017 Inland Desert Auxerrois Yakima Valley $22 90 points
This is the only example of this variety I am aware of in the state. Aromas of apple, melon and lees lead to full-bodied creamy-feeling fruit flavors that linger on the finish. Though seeming a bit stylistically different from the previous vintage, it’s delicious all the same.

Lobo Hills 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Yakima Valley $18 91 points
This wine comes from Lonesome Springs Ranch Vineyard and was fermented and aged in stainless steel, with rocks from the vineyard included in the tanks. After starting out just a touch reduced, it opens to reveal aromas of kiwi, white grapefruit, mineral and herb. The palate is sleek in style with electric acidity. It’s a racy acid white at a terrific price. Pair it with ceviche. Editor's Choice

Maloney 2015 Single Vineyard Phinny Hill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $45 88 points
This wine is a bit green out of the gate, with notes of garden herb and green pepper in front of dark fruit. The fruit flavors are full bore, with a tight core of slightly dry tannins wrapped around them.

Maryhill 2015 Zinfandel Columbia Valley $24 88 points
Vibrant aromas of raspberry jam, fruit leather and spice are followed by plush fruit flavors. It’s a very enjoyable, spot-on example of the variety.

Maryhill 2015 Proprietor’s Reserve Zinfandel Columbia Valley $44 86 points
Aromas of vanilla, char, coffee and dried herb are followed by soft red-fruit flavors, with plentiful barrel accents. The variety seems a bit hard to find, especially compared to their entry-level offering from the same vintage.

Maryhill 2015 Proprietor’s Reserve Barbera Columbia Valley $32 86 points
Cherry candy, raspberry and herb aromas are followed by plump ripe sweet flavors with a warm tangy finish. It comes off as quite ripe.

Maryhill 2015 Proprietor’s Reserve Tudor Hills Vineyard Malbec Columbia Valley $36 85 points
Aromas of Jolly Rancher and licorice are followed by lighter-styled flavors that show a lot of wood influence. Green notes linger on the finish.

Maryhill 2015 Proprietor’s Reserve Merlot Columbia Valley $34 85 points
The aromas are quite reticent and hard to get at. The palate brings plentiful red-fruit flavors and grippy tannins, with a tire rubber note that distracts.

Maryhill 2015 Proprietor’s Reserve Sangiovese Columbia Valley $36 85 points
Quite light in color, aromas of caramel and red fruit are followed by light fruit flavors. The concentration doesn’t seem all there, with the variety hard to find.

Maryhill 2016 Winemaker’s White Blend Columbia Valley $14 84 points
The aromas of dried orange peel and lime provide interest but seem a bit evolved. The concentration of the dry Nestea Iced Tea and lemon flavors seems extremely light.

Maryhill 2015 Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley $20 85 points
Aromas of green coffee bean, garden herb and flower are followed by elegantly styled fruit flavors. Coffee notes linger on the finish. The concentration seems quite light.

Maryhill 2015 Malbec Columbia Valley $24 86 points
Raspberry jam and dried cranberry aromas are at the fore, with peppery accents in the background. The flavors are plump and ripe, but don’t have the structure to hold them together.

Maryhill 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $20 86 points
The aromas pop, with notes of raspberry jam, cherry and spice. The cocoa and jammy red-fruit flavors are light and appealing, tapering toward the finish. It’s a straight down the fairway offering of the variety.

Maryhill 2015 Sangiovese Columbia Valley $26 86 points
Raspberry jam, rose hip and spice aromas are followed by light juicy fruit flavors that finish warm. It doesn’t all come together but it still provides enjoyment.

Matthews 2017 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $35 90 points
Hailing from Boushey Vineyard, this wine was aged in a combination of large format oak and concrete. Aromas of gooseberry, kiwi, pink grapefruit, lemon rind, tropical fruit and herb lead to creamy-feeling fruit flavors supported by well-balanced acidity. A lingering finish caps it off. It’s a richer styled interpretation of the variety.

Matthews 2017 Rosé Columbia Valley $27 87 points
This is 100% Cabernet Franc, and all of the fruit for this wine comes from the Royal Slope. A very pretty pale-peach color, aromas of spice, watermelon and strawberry lead to a thick-feeling palate. It gets bogged down.

Matthews 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $27 88 points
Blended with 13% Sémillon, the aromas are quite light, with notes of herb and citrus. The palate is medium bodied with a lingering finish. It’s pleasant but comes off as quite lightly flavored.

Matthews 2016 Cuvée Red Blend Columbia Valley $30 86 points
This wine is about two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon, with the rest Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah and Malbec. Aromas of blueberry, herb, plum, green pepper and spice lead to soft lighter-styled fruit flavors with slightly grainy tannins. The concentration seems quite light.

Matthews 2015 Reserve Claret Columbia Valley $60 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (68%) takes the lead, followed by 18% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. Aromas of blueberry, graphite, herb, miso paste and spice are followed by plentiful coffee flavors that linger on the finish. Lightly grainy tannins back it all up.

Matthews 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $55 87 points
Toast, coffee, berry and herb aromas are followed by lighter-styled fruit flavors. It all seems a bit dialed back.

Matthews 2016 Blackboard Red Blend Columbia Valley $27 85 points
This wine is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 7% Syrah, 6% Merlot and 2% Malbec. Blue-fruit aromas are at the fore along with notes of green pepper and green herb. The concentration is quite light, not able to deliver.

Milbrandt 2016 Brother’s Blend Red Blend Columbia Valley $17 87 points
This blend of Bordeaux and Rhône varieties brings blueberry-pie and huckleberry aromas. The somewhat lighter-styled blue-fruit flavors provide plenty of easy-drinking appeal, with the oak seeming pleasantly dialed back.

Milbrandt 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $17 87 points
Dark roasted coffee, mortared herb and cassis aromas are followed by lightly sweet, ripe black-currant flavors. It provides easy-drinking appeal.

Milbrandt 2016 The Estate Evergreen Vineyard Chardonnay Ancient Lakes $22 87 points
A pale-golden color, the aromas suggest notes of cream and spice. The flavors are full bodied, showing a sense of nuance, followed by a warm, slightly bitter finish.

Milbrandt 2016 Merlot Columbia Valley $17 86 points
Aromas of braised green pepper, blueberry, coffee and herb are followed by lightly sweet, medium-bodied fruit flavors. It provides a lot of easy-drinking appeal, though the variety seems a bit hard to find.

Milbrandt 2017 Rosé Columbia Valley $13 87 points
A blend of 75% Syrah and 25% Tempranillo, this wine is pale electric pink in color with orange accents. Light aromas of apple, watermelon and herb are followed by off-dry broad-feeling fruit flavors that provide appeal.

Milbrandt 2016 Chardonnay Columbia Valley $13 87 points
Barrel aromas are out front, with notes of toast in front of butter and corn-on-the-cob. The palate is full bodied with a lightly creamy feel to the stone-fruit flavors.

Milbrandt 2016 Evergreen Vineyard Riesling Ancient Lakes $13 87 points
Green-apple, lime and lime-leaf aromas are followed by lightly spritzy feeling, lighter-styled white-peach flavors that drink off dry but with enough acidity to off-set it. It delivers a lot of appeal.

Milbrandt 2016 Pinot Gris Columbia Valley $13 86 points
The aromas of apple and pear seem difficult to access at present. Dry medium-bodied flavors follow. It’s a pleasant if somewhat innocuous offering of the variety, with the concentration at times seeming a bit light.

Milbrandt 2017 Sweet Katherine Evergreen Vineyard Riesling Ancient Lakes $13 86 points
Lighter styled aromas of peach, apricot and whiffs of lime are followed by sweet, rich stone-fruit flavors. It leans a bit too much on the sugar for its appeal but it still delivers plenty of it.

Murray 2015 Syrah Red Mountain $25 85 points
The aromas pop, with notes of blueberry, orange peel, flower, smoked meat and Dimetapp cough syrup. The palate is light but chock-full of mesquite flavors. Blueberry-pie notes linger on the finish. It doesn’t all work.

North by Northwest 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $55 87 points
Dark coffee, mocha, vanilla, cherry and herb aromas are followed by plump-feeling fruit flavors. One wants a bit more structure to hang all that fruit on but what’s there is pleasant.

Original House Wine 2016 Steak House Cabernet Sauvignon America $12 86 points
The aromas are downright fruity, with notes of black plum and black currant along with herb and green pepper. The palate brings sweet, simple fruit flavors, with the oak influence not apparent. It’s a straightforward quaffer.

Original House Wine 2016 Dark Cabernet Sauvignon America $12 86 points
Fruit forward black currant, plum and green pepper aromas are followed by plump, pleasant, lightly sweet fruit flavors. There’s not much complexity, but if you want to know what Cabernet looks like unadulterated by oak, this wine is it.

Original House Wine NV Riesling America $26 84 points
Coming in a box wine format, this wine brings light aromas of jasmine, orange zest and flowers. It drinks closer to dry than one might imagine. Still, the flavors fall a bit flat.

Original House Wine NV Chardonnay America $26 83 pointsThis is a straightforward, quaffable offering of this variety in a box wine format. There’s little complexity but the price is right.

Poet's Leap 2017 Riesling Columbia Valley $20 91 points
Generous aromas of lime leaf, citrus, wet slate and white peach lead to off-dry stone-fruit and citrus flavors that stretch out on the palate. It brings a beautiful sense of acid balance with an impressively long finish. Give it some additional time in bottle to see it at its best. Editor's Choice

Randolph 2015 Syrah Horse Heaven Hills $38 84 points
Aromas of baking spice, vanilla and anise are followed by sweet, lightly chalky-feeling fruit flavors. Coffee notes linger on the very warm finish. The oak influence is primary, making the sense of place hard to find.

Result of a Crush 2016 Rhône-style White Blend Walla Walla Valley $25 88 points
This wine is a blend of 45% Grenache Blanc, 33% Marsanne and 22% Viognier. The aromas jump up, with notes of canned peach, flower and lees. Stone-fruit flavors extend on the sleekly styled palate, with peach notes lingering on the finish. It provides a lot of intrigue.

Result of a Crush 2015 Christmas Cuvée Red Blend Walla Walla Valley $NA 90 points
Aromas of sea salt, smoked meat, flower and olive lead to lightly styled, soft, palate-coating, meaty fruit flavors. It shows a delightful sense of elegance, with a persistent, smoke meat and black-pepper-filled finish. Editor's Choice

Reynvaan Family Vineyards 2016 In the Rocks Vineyard Estate White Viognier Walla Walla Valley $NA 88 points
This is one of the few examples of the variety coming out of this region. Slightly cloudy in color, the aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of peach, whole lime, mineral and wet stone. The palate is light but flavorful, with the concentration waxing and waning throughout.

Reynvaan Family Vineyards 2015 In the Hills Estate Foothills in the Sun Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $75 93 points
Fruit for this wine comes from the winery’s vineyard in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. The aromas pop, with notes of nori, black pepper, sea breeze, parsley, black olive tapenade, fresh flower, herb and wet stone, revealing more complexity on each swirl. Smoked meat aromas emerge over time. The palate is elegant yet richly flavorful, with an extremely long, smoked meat finish. This one is all about delicacy and finesse but it brings both in abundance.

Reynvaan Family Vineyards 2015 Reserve Estate Foothills in the Sun Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $NA 92 points
The aromas are brooding out of the gate, with notes of earthy funk, freshly ground black pepper, black olive, smoked meat and tar. The palate is elegant but still richly flavorful with a lingering smoky meat-filled finish. It seems a bit difficult to access at present, though it broadens with some time open. Best after 2022.

Reynvaan Family Vineyards 2015 The Contender Estate In the Rocks Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $85 90 points
Pale in color, light aromas of blueberry, smoked meat, ember and green herb are followed by light elegant fruit and savory flavors. It’s a pretty expression of the variety and region.

Reynvaan Family Vineyards 2015 Estate In the Rocks Syrah Walla Walla Valley $85 92 points
The aromas of this wine intoxicate, showing more initial fruit aromas compared to many wines from this region, with strong blueberry and orange peel scents. Those notes are dominated by more savory tones over time, with waves of wildflower, olive, fresh herb, gravel and a whiff of smoked meat. The elegant palate offers a seamless feel that leads into an extended finish, showing a lovely overall sense of refinement.

Reynvaan Family Vineyards 2015 Stonessence Estate In the Rocks Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $100 92 points
The aromas are expressive, with abundant notes of smoked ham along with herb, wet stone and olive. The palate has a sensuous soft feel, with fruit and savory flavors carrying on the smoked meat finish. It’s all about elegance. Give it some time to open up.

Rôtie Cellars 2016 Northern Blend Syrah Walla Walla Valley $48 89 points
The 5% Viognier is out front on first pour, with aromas of freshly squeezed orange dominating, with notes of wet stone and smoked meat emerging over time. The palate brings a mixture of fruit and savory flavors, with the concentration seeming light. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Rôtie Cellars 2016 Southern Blend Washington $48 91 points
This wine is a blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah. The aromas jump up, with notes of fresh orange, raspberry, olive, herb and wet stone. The palate is full bodied and rich, with abundant fruit and savory flavors that persist on the finish.

Ryan Patrick 2017 Rosé Columbia Valley $15 86 points
A very pretty pale-salmon color, apple and cherry aromas are followed by broad-feeling fruit flavors that taper on the back end. It seems a bit weighty.

Ryan Patrick 2017 Olsen Brothers Vineyard Riesling Yakima Valley $12 85 points
Subdued, slightly reduced aromas of lime leaf and white peach lead to just off-dry drinking, lighter-styled fruit flavors, with ale notes on the tart finish. There are good things going on, but it seems a bit pulled back for the variety. Perhaps it just needs some additional time in bottle?

Ryan Patrick 2016 Naked Chardonnay Columbia Valley $12 84 points
Aromas of canned corn are followed by quite light and linear-seeming fruit flavors. It comes off as very light.

Ryan Patrick 2016 Redhead Red Blend Columbia Valley $15 86 points
Black currant, blueberry and tar aromas lead to lightly sweet blackberry flavors. It shows a fair amount of sugar but largely pulls it off.

Ryan Patrick 2015 Rock Island Red Blend Wahluke Slope $20 88 points
Mostly Syrah (73%) along with Cabernet Sauvignon (23%) and a pinch of Merlot, the aromas show notes of vanilla and dill in front of blueberry and dark cherry. The palate is full bodied and comes off as high octane, with a background of firm slightly gritty tannins. Though listed as only 20% new American oak, it shows a bit prominently at times.

Sagelands 2016 Dark Shadow Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $11 85 points
Aromas of black currant, cassis and herb lead to off-dry dark-fruit flavors. It’s a straightforward quaffer. Drink now.

Sawtooth 2017 Pinot Gris America $13 88 points
Aromas of pear, grass, green apple and lemon zest, lead to a flavorful palate full of pineapple flavors, backed by a zip of lemony acidity. It delivers a lot of quality and value. Best Buy

Sawtooth 2017 Rosé America $13 86 points
Quite light in color, the aromas are elusive, with notes of citrus and cherry. It drinks dry, with a lightly smoky finish.

Shoup 2014 Columbia Valley $100 90 points
The aromas are brooding, with notes of dried herb, soil and cherry. The cherry and black-fruit flavors are rich and full, with firm tannins providing support. Give it some time in the cellar to develop. Best after 2023.

Spoken Barrel 2015 Heritage Rich and Complex #42 Red Blend Columbia Valley $20 87 points
Blackberry, asphalt, anise and spice lead to quite dry fruit and lighter-styled flavors, with the tannins giving a light squeeze.

Spoken Barrel 2015 Bold and Complex #42 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $20 84 points
The aromas bring notes of cherry, exotic spice and whiffs of tire rubber. The cherry and cranberry flavors are tart and tangy, trailing on the back half with the tannins giving a light grip.

Tendril 2015 Octave Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $75 87 points
The aromas intrigue, with notes of exotic spice, black tea, cherry, cedar and fresh herb. The flavors are sweet and palate coating, with dry, astringent, slightly bitter tannins. Perhaps some time will even them out?

Tenor 2016 Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $50 89 points
This wine was vinified in a mixture of new 300-liter French oak barrels (50%) and stainless steel, with all of the fruit coming from Stillwater Creek Vineyard. Appealing aromas of kiwi, whole pineapple and spice are followed by full-bodied, textured tropical-fruit flavors that lead to a warm finish. The concentration doesn’t seem all there, but it is still quite enjoyable.

Tenor 2016 Chardonnay Columbia Valley $50 88 points
Vibrant aromas of vanilla, cream, clarified butter and peach are followed by full-bodied textured fruit flavors with plentiful toasty notes on the warm finish. The concentration dips at times and the style seems oak heavy but there is still much to enjoy.

Tenor 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $60 89 points
The aromas are generous and inviting, with notes of char, smoked meat, olive brine, flower and berry. The palate shows a pretty sense of elegance to the olive flavors—especially for the labeled alcohol level—but doesn’t fully deliver on all of the aroma’s promise.

Tenor 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $58 89 points
Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of char and toasty oak in front of red fruit. The fruit and barrel flavors are lithe, with the tannins bringing a slightly grainy feel. The oak shows prominently at present.

Tenor 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $68 87 points
Green pepper, clove, herb, graphite and spice aromas are followed by dry, somewhat lighter-styled flavors. The tannins don’t seem fully resolved.

The Fam Vin 2016 The Gr8 White Chardonnay Columbia Valley $18 86 points
The aromas offer notes of fresh flower and canned peach, with lightly styled flavors that follow. The concentration at times seems a bit light. Still, it delivers plenty of easy-drinking appeal.

The Fam Vin 2015 The Gr8 Cab Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $23 87 points
Lighter-styled aromas of cherry, vanilla, plum and herb lead to ripe raspberry flavors and cherry flavors. It’s straightforward but comes off as a bit light for the variety.

The Huntsman 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $16 85 points
Light in color, the aromas provide notes of black currant and herb, with the oak dialed way back. The palate is elegantly styled, with the concentration seeming a bit lacking.

The Orcas Project 2017 Dutchman Vineyard Albariño Yakima Valley $23 87 points
Fruit for this wine comes from Dutchman Vineyard. The aromas pop, with notes of lemon rind and melon leading to lightly spritzy ale, pineapple-rind and melon flavors. It appears to need some additional time in bottle to settle in.

The Orcas Project 2016 Garnacha Yakima Valley $35 88 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Art den Hoed and Upland vineyards. Light in color, the aromas suggest notes of raspberry candy along with herb accents. There’s a pretty sense of purity to the raspberry-jam flavors that persist on the warm finish.

The Orcas Project 2016 Red Willow Vineyard Merlot Yakima Valley $45 88 points
This wine is 100% Merlot. High-toned aromas of coffee, graphite, licorice, black raspberry and spice lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors that paint around the edges, missing in the middle. There are good things going on if the midpalate fleshes out.

The Orcas Project 2016 Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley $51 90 points
Fruit for this 100% varietal wine comes from Bacchus and Weinbau vineyards. There’s no mistaking the variety, with its notes of sliced green pepper, herb, flower and cherry. The pit-fruit flavors are sweet but show a pretty sense of elegance that carries through the finish. It’s all about subtlety.

TruthTeller 2017 Frolic Viognier Yakima Valley $20 86 points
Perfumed aromas of flower, nectarine, lime and herb lead to lightly sweet-seeming fruit flavors. It’s a well made example of the variety.

TruthTeller 2016 The Stand Up Chardonnay Yakima Valley $20 85 points
The apple, spice and custard aromas take some time to tease out. The palate is medium bodied, shortening up on the finish.

TruthTeller 2015 Pun Red Blend Columbia Valley $30 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up the majority (53%) of this wine, with the rest 27% Malbec, 16% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. Cherry, raspberry and wet penny aromas are followed by pleasing, elegantly styled fruit flavors that bring a sense of structure. It seems to finish a bit warm.

TruthTeller 2015 Satire Bordeaux-style Red Blend Yakima Valley $25 88 points
This is a blend of 41% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Franc, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. The aromas are light, with notes of herb, cherry and anise, along with whiffs of tire rubber. The palate is lighter, classically styled, with the tannins bringing a bit of grip on the back end.

TruthTeller 2015 Wisdom Bordeaux-style Red Blend Yakima Valley $30 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just under two-thirds of this wine, with the balance Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Coffee, cherry, anise and herb aromas are followed by juicy, somewhat lighter-styled fruit flavors. Firm, slightly gritty-seeming tannins back it all up.

TruthTeller 2015 The Madman Red Blend Columbia Valley $35 87 points
Syrah makes up most of this wine (60%), with the balance equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The aromas pop, with notes of blueberry, huckleberry, herb and asphalt. The palate shows a sense of elegance, with the tannins bringing a bit of grit.

TruthTeller 2014 The Confindante Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $45 86 points
This wine spent 30 months in only 40% new French oak. The aromas are lighter in style and don’t seem to be fully delineated, with notes of cranberry, cherry and herb, along with a strong anise note. The palate is dry, with scratchy, slightly astringent seeming tannins.

Washington Hills 2016 Dry Riesling Washington $10 83 points
The aromas are surprisingly light for the variety, seeming hard to get at. The palate seems light and dilute, with the flavors appearing washed out.

Waterbrook 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $13 87 points
The aromas leap up, with notes of pink grapefruit, herb and kiwi. The flavors are full in feel, providing enjoyment.

Williamson Vineyard 2013 Petite Sirah Snake River Valley (ID) $35 86 points
Baking spice, fresh herb, blackberry, orange peel and cranberry aromas are followed by flavors that mix equal parts fruit and barrel, with orange peel notes on the finish. Grainy tannins provide support.

Williamson Vineyard 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Snake River Valley (ID) $30 86 points
Aromas of medicine cabinet, brambly berry, tire rubber, and woodspice lead to sweet seeming fruit flavors. It doesn’t all come together.

Wind Rose 2017 Rosato Yakima Valley $16 86 points
This wine is a blend of half Dolcetto and half Sangiovese. Salmon colored, the aromas suggest notes of apple, sour cherry and pear. The palate brings tart dried apple and cherry flavors that finish short.

Wind Rose 2014 Lonesome Springs Ranch Sangiovese Yakima Valley $25 84 points
The aromas bring strong notes of tire rubber and raspberry. The palate is light in concentration, not able to pull it all together.

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