Sean P. Sullivan - Washington Wine Report Note: Site has moved to www.northwestwinereport.com

Below are my Wine Enthusiast reviews for June 2019. 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. 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.

69 wines reviewed in the June issue of Wine Enthusiast.

They include some superb values from the 2017 vintage from Dusted Valley’s Boomtown label. On the white side, the Boomtown 2017 Pinot Gris Columbia Valley ($19, 90 points, Editor’s Choice) delivers, showing a lovely sense of acidity. There’s also a compelling look at the 2017 vintage for red wines, (Boomtown 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $19, 90 points; Boomtown 2017 Syrah Columbia Valley $19, 89 points). Meanwhile Dusted Valley’s Stained Tooth Syrah consistently delivers at a more than reasonable price (Dusted Valley 2016 Stained Tooth Syrah Columbia Valley $36, 91 points).

Master blender Brian Carter of Brian Carter Cellars shows off his skills with the Brian Carter 2017 Oriana White Blend Yakima Valley ($25, 90 points, Editor’s Choice).

Eternal Wines makes a lovely Syrah co-fermented with Roussanne (Eternal 2016 Eternal Foundation Syrah Walla Walla Valley $59, 91 points). With the success that Reynvaan Family Vineyards has had with Syrah with a pinch of Roussanne, I’m surprised more Washington wineries aren’t exploring the use of Roussanne with Syrah.

On the value side, the Charles and Charles 2018 Rosé is a rollicking, fruit-filled pink that is a sure crowd pleaser (Charles & Charles 2018 Rosé Columbia Valley $15, 90 points, Best Buy).

For anyone interested in Washington wine – and if you are perusing this I assume that you are – Hard Row to Hoe’s 2016 Cabernet Franc is required reading (Hard Row To Hoe 2016 Burning Desire Estate Glacier Gravels Vineyard Cabernet Franc Lake Chelan $55, 90 points, Editor’s Choice). Coming from vines planted at the winery’s organically farmed vineyard planted in 2005, it delivers.

What can I say about Kevin White Winery that I haven’t said before? Year in and year out, they are the best quality-to-price ratio wines in Washington. Never more so than with the winery’s ‘Blue Label’ wine made from declassified barrel. This wine disappeared in a blink as it always does. If you see it on the shelf, do not hesitate (Kevin White 2017 Yakima Valley $20, 92 points).

An increasing number of Washington winemakers are making sparkling wines, and two wines from Morell-Peña continue to show the potential (Morell-Peña 2017 Blanc de Blancs Methode Champenoise Zero Dosage Sparkling Blend Columbia Valley, $45, 92 points, Editor’s Choice; Morell-Peña 2017 Blanc de Noirs Sparkling Blend Columbia Valley $45,  90 points).

Enjoy!

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Aeris 2017 Pinot Noir Oregon $17 88 points
The aromas leap up, displaying appealing notes of peppermint candy, strawberry, forest floor, mesquite, cinnamon stick and herb. There’s a lovely sense of poise on the palate, followed by a lightly smoky finish. There’s plenty of enjoyment to be had.

Aubichon Cellars 2016 Reserve Grenache The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater $50 88 points
Lighter in color, with aromas of freshly squeezed Satsuma orange, raspberry and potpourri that lead to quite lightly styled fruit flavors. The concentration is light, but what is there intrigues.

Boomtown 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $19 90 points
There’s no mistaking the variety, with its aromas of dried and fresh herb, along with notes of cherry and plum. Full-bodied black currant flavors follow, with plentiful cocoa accents throughout. A grip of tannins pulls it together. It’s a lot of wine for the money. Give it some time to open.

Boomtown 2017 Pinot Gris Columbia Valley $19 90 points
Aromas of white peach, lemon balm, citrus and wet stone are followed sleek, citrusy flavors that extend on the long, lemon rind-filled finish. The acid balance kicks it up a notch. Editor's Choice 
Boomtown 2017 Syrah Columbia Valley $19 89 points
The aromas on this young release wine pop, with notes of blueberry and huckleberry pie, with the light, silky-smooth palate showing more of the same. It has a lovely sense of brightness and freshness, and the variety is unmistakable. For those looking for value, look no further.

Boomtown 2017 Red Blend Columbia Valley $19 88 points
The baking spice, vanilla, maple, red fruit and herb aromas are accented by a whiff of mesquite. Full-bodied, pillow-soft plum flavors follow, with a light grip of tannins providing support. There’s value to be had.

Boomtown 2017 Merlot Columbia Valley $19 86 points
Aromas of gun smoke, pencil eraser, vanilla, plum and wood spice lead to plump fruit and barrel flavors with a lightly gritty feel.

Brian Carter 2017 Oriana White Blend Yakima Valley $25 90 points
This wine is half Viognier, with the rest Roussanne (40%) and Riesling. The aromas pop, with notes of ripe peach, flower, orange rind and jasmine. A lovely sense of balance carries through the finish. Editor's Choice

Brian Carter 2014 Solesce Columbia Valley $60 90 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (54%) and Merlot (24%) make up the backbone of this wine, with the balance Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. The aromas offer notes of jammy red and black fruit, along with pleasing spice and cedar accents. The palate shows a lovely sense of balance and finesse with a lingering finish.

Brian Carter 2015 1 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Mourvèdre Columbia Valley $85 88 points
Offerings of this variety from this vineyard are a rarity. Intriguing aromas of plum, black pepper, raspberry, game, herb and cranberry are followed by lighter-styled but still well-balanced pot roast flavors. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best.

Brian Carter 2015 Opulento Dessert Wine Red Blend Yakima Valley $22 88 points
This wine is a blend of 44% Touriga Nacional, 33% Souzão, 15% Tinta Cão and 8% Tinta Roriz. The aromas are pulled back, with notes of blackberry, blue fruit and spice seeming a bit dried out. The palate boasts sweet, flavorful blue fruit notes. It brings plenty of pleasure.

Brian Carter 2014 Byzance Columbia Valley $38 88 points
Grenache makes up 54% of this wine, with the balance Syrah (24%), Mourvèdre (15%), Counoise (4%) and Cinsault. High-toned flower, herb, orange rind and red fruit are followed by lighter-styled, soft, supple fruit flavors. It’s a very pretty, understated wine.

Brian Carter 2014 Le Coursier Columbia Valley $40 87 points
Merlot makes up over half of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc and smidgens of Malbec and Petit Verdot. Strong aromas of toast and burnt tire start in the lead, mostly blowing off with time open. Spice, maple and black cherry notes follow. The light, elegant fruit flavors show a pretty sense of styling. Cocoa notes linger on the finish. It seems to be in an awkward spot at present.

Brian Carter NV 1 Upland Vineyard Graciano Snipes Mountain $85 87 points
Examples of this variety are rare in the state. Aromas of blackberry, cola and leather are accented by mineral tones. The flavors are soft and supple, with bitters on the finish.

Cathedral Ridge 2016 Reserve Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley (OR) $44 83 points
The aromas are off, with volatile notes along with green pepper and game lurking in the background. The palate is light and elegant, showing a pleasant sense of the variety.

Cathedral Ridge 2015 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley (OR) $48 81 points
Aromas of fruit leather, wet hay and medicine cabinet lead to lightly sweet fruit flavors. It doesn’t work.

Cedar + Salmon 2016 Walla Walla Valley $25 89 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (63%) is out front, followed by Merlot (27%) and Petit Verdot. Aromas of toast, anise, vanilla, cherry and spice lead to ripe, full-bodied pie cherry flavors, backed by a firm lick of tannins. There’s a lot to like, and if it settles in it could move up.

Cedergreen Cellars 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $17 89 points
Light aromas of mineral, herb and citrus are followed by bright, fuller-styled, well-balanced fruit flavors that carry on the finish. Pair it with food to see it at its best.

Cedergreen Cellars 2018 Viola Rosé Columbia Valley $16 88 points
This wine is a blend of Gamay and Cabernet Franc, producing a pretty pale copper color. Aromas of muscat gummy and herb lead to somewhat thick feeling fruit flavors. There are good things going on, but they seem to get a bit bogged down.

Charles & Charles 2018 Rosé Columbia Valley $15 90 points
Syrah (71%) makes up the backbone of this wine along with Cabernet Sauvignon (17%) and other Rhône varieties. An appealing pale-salmon color, this wine has bright watermelon, strawberry, kiwi and cherry candy aromas that lead to a tart pink-grapefruit flavor and mouthwatering acidity.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2016 Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay Columbia Valley $22 88 points
Aromas and flavors of vanilla, candlewax, custard and clarified butter are out front. Abundant peach notes follow. It seems a bit stylized but still has balance and appeal.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $15 86 points
Appealing aromas of leafy green herb and cherry lead to plump fruit flavors that paint around the edges. The concentration is light, particularly through the middle, but what’s there is pleasant.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2018 Rosé Columbia Valley $11 86 points
Its electric pink color is a bit darker than the style trending in the state. Bubblegum aromas are out front, followed by cherry and strawberry notes that also fill the palate. Kiwi flavors persist on the finish. It gets bogged down at times, but there is still plenty to enjoy.

Circle 66 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $39 88 points
Black currant, red apple, green pepper, cherry cordial and bittersweet chocolate aromas lead to plump, pleasing plum flavors. There’s a lot to like.

Claar 2015 Estate Grown and Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $22 88 points
The aromas bring notes of black fruit, fresh herb and barrel spice. Full-bodied dark fruit flavors follow, with the tannins bringing a dry, scratchy feel that softens a bit with some time open. There’s a lot of value to be had. Decant if drinking in the near term.

Drink Washington State 2016 Visit Wahluke Slope Carmenère Wahluke Slope $29 88 points
Intriguing aromas of savory herb, pine sap, Satsuma orange and red fruit are followed by soft, light, well-balanced fruit flavors with a pillowy feel. It’s intriguing.

Drink Washington State 2016 Welcome to Columbia Valley Chardonnay Columbia Valley $19 87 points
Initially funky aromas of lees and yellow apple lead to light, bright flavors. It doesn’t all come together but there are interesting things going on.

Dusted Valley 2016 Stained Tooth Syrah Columbia Valley $36 91 points
The aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of raspberry, tar, plum, orange rind, herb and spice. The flavors are lighter in style through the middle, surrounded by firmly wound tannins that soften over time. A lingering finish caps it off. Give it some time to open up and it delivers.

Dusted Valley 2015 V.R. Special Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $62 89 points
The cherry, herb and flower aromas enchant. Full-bodied, black as night flavors follow, wrapped up in firm, tightly wound tannins that come off as a bit dry. Give it some additional time in the bottle or an extended decant if drinking in the near term.

Dusted Valley 2015 Malbec Columbia Valley $44 88 points
The aromas intrigue, with notes of matchstick, dark fruit and tar. The flavors coat the palate from end to end, with a soft, pillowy feel. Lightly grainy tannins back it all up, finishing warm.

Dusted Valley 2015 BFM Dionysus Vineyard Columbia Valley $55 88 points
This could be varietally labeled as a Merlot (79%), finished off with Cabernet Sauvignon (17%) and Petit Verdot. The heat of the vintage seems to show, with aromas of ripe, slightly dried out seeming red fruit with spice accents. Full-bodied flavors follow, trailing toward the warm finish.

Eternal 2016 Eternal Foundation Syrah Walla Walla Valley $59 91 points
Fruit for this wine, which was cofermented with 5% Roussanne, comes from Winesap Vineyard. Dark fruit, purple fruit, herb, gravel, smoke and flower aromas are followed by full-bodied fruit flavors that show a pleasing sense of purity and a captivating mouthfeel. It’s delightful.

Eternal 2015 Eternal Passion Reserve Red Blend Columbia Valley $69 88 points
This wine is equal parts Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon and Walla Walla Valley Syrah. The aromas pop, with notes of vanilla and baking spice, with the oak out front. Full-bodied, dark fruit flavors follow, with plenty of Mounds candy bar accents that lead to a warm finish. The oak influence is a bit intense at present, but the underlying fruit is nice.

Eternal 2016 Eternal Patience Roussanne Walla Walla Valley $39 87 points
This is a rare example of this variety from the valley. With all of the fruit coming from Cockburn Ranch, the aromas offer notes of almond skin, crayon, peach and clarified butter. Full-bodied, buttery flavors follow, showing some alcoholic bitterness on the finish. There are good things happening, but the alcohol seems out of balance.

Eternal 2016 Eternal Gratitude Merlot Columbia Valley $49 86 points
All the fruit for this wine comes from Gamache Vineyard. Soil, ground cherry, tangerine and herb aromas intrigue. The cranberry flavors are backed by tannins that give a light squeeze.

Gramercy 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $36 92 points
Stem, violet, smoked meat, wet stone, Satsuma orange and herb aromas lead to smoked meat and other savory flavors that show knee-buckling purity, complexity and detail while retaining a sense of lightness. The pillowy mouthfeel only heightens the appeal. A long finish caps it off. It’s delicious. Editor's Choice

Gramercy 2016 Les Collines Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $54 91 points
This wine comes in at an alcohol level almost unheard of for modern-day red wines in the state. The aromas are light on first pour, with notes of dark plum, blueberry, herb, violet, smoked meat and spice. Elegant fruit flavors dance on the palate, with a long, flavorful finish capping it off. The vineyard doesn’t initially jump out the way it often does, but it’s lovely. Give it plenty of time to open up.

Gramercy 2016 Estates Walla Walla Valley $70 90 points
A blend of 80% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, this is the inaugural release of this wine. Brooding aromas of baking spice, red apple, cherry and herb lead to sleek, sultry pie cherry flavors that are focused in the middle initially, broadening over time. A lovely sense of acidity provides the frame.

Gramercy 2016 The Third Man Grenache Columbia Valley $36 90 points
Blended with 13% Syrah and 12% Mourvèdre, this wine is pale in color, showing some bricking at the rim. The aromas are a bit hard to tease out, with notes of cranberry and spice showing over time. The palate is elegant and transparent in style, with plentiful strawberry and raspberry flavors. The concentration is light initially, fleshing out a bit over time. What’s there is lovely.

Gramercy 2016 Lower East Syrah Columbia Valley $25 89 points
Subdued aromas of black pepper, herb, game, violet and flower are followed by lightly styled fruit flavors. It’s a pretty offering of the variety.

Hard Row To Hoe 2016 Burning Desire Estate Glacier Gravels Vineyard Cabernet Franc Lake Chelan $55 90 points
Fruit for this wine comes from vines planted in 2005 at the winery’s organically farmed vineyard on the north shore of Lake Chelan, an area that has a geology distinct from the rest of the broader Columbia Valley. Unique aromas of porcini mushroom, peat, tobacco, cherry and crushed gravel lead to well-balanced fruit flavors that have a seamless feel. Many Lake Chelan wines show the area’s promise. This wine delivers. Editor's Choice

Hood Crest 2016 Grenache Columbia Valley (OR) $36 88 points
Light in color and showing some bricking, this wine has aromas that offer notes of sandalwood, flower, white pepper, spice, herb and raspberry. Light, delicate smoked meat and spice flavors follow. This one is all about elegance and delicacy, but it brings both in abundance.

Hood Crest 2016 Petite Sirah Columbia Valley (OR) $42 87 points
There’s no question of the warm vintage that this wine comes from, with its aromas of black fruit, herb and anise. Jammy cranberry and cherry flavors follow, ending with a tart finish.

Hood Crest 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley (OR) $38 83 points
Aromas of potpourri, jalapeño and cranberry lead to tart, lighter-styled cherry and flower flavors.

Joleté 2017 Pinot Gris Columbia Valley $19 90 points
Appealing aromas of freshly cut yellow apple and melon lead to full-feeling, plentiful pear flavors. The sense of texture heightens the appeal.

Kevin White 2017 Yakima Valley $20 92 points
A blend of 57% Syrah, 24% Grenache and 19% Mourvèdre, this wine is consistently one of the state’s best values, and this vintage does not disappoint. Referred to as the winery’s blue label wine with the fruit coming from declassified barrels, the aromas pop, with notes of blue fruit, herb, smoke and black pepper, with plenty of red fruit accents. Soft, layered flavors follow, loaded with plum, cherry and smoked meat. The purity is swoon-worthy. A long finish caps it off. Editor's Choice

Kevin White 2016 Heritage DuBrul Vineyard Yakima Valley $40 91 points
Coming from one of the state’s top vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 59% of this wine, with the balance Merlot. The aromas offer notes of smoke, dried and fresh herb, fresh tobacco, pie cherry, cedar and spice. Elegant, supple fruit flavors follow. It’s a very pretty interpretation of this site.

Kiona 2016 Estate Bottled Reserve Red Mountain $50 87 points
This wine is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend from Heart of the Hill (69%) and Kiona Estate vineyards. The aromas offer notes of fruit leather, cherry, game and spice, seeming a bit dried out. Fruit and game flavors follow, backed by firm tannins.

Kiona 2016 Estate Bottled Heart of the Hill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $75 87 points
Aromas of cough syrup, game, barrel spice and herbs are followed by ripe cherry flavors and abundant baking spice accents. Firm, wound-up tannins back it all up.

Maison Bleue 2016 Voyageur Syrah Walla Walla Valley $55 91 points
Fruit for this wine comes from the Les Collines, Stone Valley and Yellow Jacket Vineyards. The aromas leap out of the glass, with notes of raspberry, violet, plum, kirsch and garrigue. The flavors are light and poised, bringing a sense of freshness. The concentration is light, but what is there is beautiful and all about elegance. Give it time to open up. Editor's Choice

Maison Bleue 2016 Graviere Stone Valley Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley (OR) $65 90 points
Fruit for this wine comes from vines planted in 2000—some of the oldest in the Rocks District. Beguiling aromas of orange rind, white pepper, plum and pomegranate lead to light, elegant flavors. It brings a sense of transparency and detail.

Maison Bleue 2016 Votligeur Viognier Walla Walla Valley $40 88 points
The aromas intrigue, with notes of dried apricot, apple and spice. The fruit flavors are light, coming up short on the finish.

Maryhill 2017 Semillon Columbia Valley $15 90 points
Aromas of corn husk, lemon balm, fig, herb and mineral lead to medium-plus-bodied fruit flavors that spread across the palate. The variety is unmistakable.

Maryhill 2015 Vineyard Series Les Collines Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $38 90 points
Aromas of smoked meat, Jolly Roger, cherry, flower and spice are followed by a textured, layered palate. It shows finesse and length, with caramel and other barrel flavors speckled throughout. The oak plays a prominent part in the show, somewhat overriding the vineyard, but there are still plenty of good things happening.

Maryhill 2015 Vineyard Series Art Den Hoed Vineyard Painted Hills Dolcetto Columbia Valley $46 89 points
The aromas offer enchanting notes of red cherry, tar, raspberry, herb, cranberry, spice and herb. The palate dances softly, with a sense of freshness and brightness that heightens the interest. A mouthwatering finish with caramel notes caps it off.

Maryhill 2015 Vineyard Series Elephant Mountain Vineyards Sangiovese Rattlesnake Hills $38 88 points
Aromas of cedar, red fruit and baking spice are followed by vanilla-filled flavors brightened by tart acidity leading to a warm finish. There are good things going on, but the oak gets out front, with the variety seeming a hard to find.

Maryhill 2015 Vineyard Series Art Den Hoed Painted Hills Primitivo Columbia Valley $26 88 points
This 100% varietal, aged in two-thirds European and American oak, has aromas of blackberry and raspberry jam along with coconut accents, followed by ripe, full-bodied fruit leather flavors and a warm, cranberry and spice-filled finish. It’s a spot-on example of the variety.

Maryhill 2015 Vineyard Series Art den Hoed Vineyard Painted Hills Tempranillo Columbia Valley $42 88 points
In this 100% varietal, cocoa, bittersweet chocolate, vanilla and herb aromas lead to plentiful, well-balanced cherry and vanilla flavors. There’s a lot to like.

Maryhill 2015 Vineyard Series Northridge Vineyard Syrah Wahluke Slope $38 88 points
Aromas of flowers, green plants, black fruit and olive are followed by well-proportioned fruit flavors. The warmth of the vintage shows.

Maryhill 2015 Vineyard Series Kiona Vineyards Heart of the Hill Merlot Red Mountain $44 86 points
Plum, cranberry and cherry pie aromas are followed by a woody-seeming palate that finishes short. The oak influence is intense.

Morell-Peña 2017 Blanc de Blancs Methode Champenoise Zero Dosage Sparkling Blend Columbia Valley $45 92 points
This is the inaugural release of this wine, which was aged in concrete eggs. With all of the fruit coming from Solaksen Vineyard on the Royal Slope, compelling aromas of lemon, lemon balm and autolytic notes lead to bright, tart, racy flavors. The high-wire acidity provides the perfect frame and structure. It impresses. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best. >

Morell-Peña 2017 Blanc de Noirs Sparkling Blend Columbia Valley $45 90 points
The inaugural release of this wine is all Pinot Noir coming from Solaksen Vineyard, hand-harvested and aged in concrete eggs. Bright aromas of raspberry, spice and baked bread lead to tart, fresh fruit flavors. It delights, with a mouthwatering finish.

Nirvana Wines 2016 Cabernet Franc Red Mountain $24 85 points
Aromas of game, Band-Aid, baking spice and cherry are followed by tart, puckering fruit flavors. The tannins bring a gritty feel. The variety seems hard to find.

Nirvana Wines 2015 Karma Red Mountain $38 83 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 60% of this wine, with the rest equal parts Cabernet Franc and Malbec. High-toned aromas of game and vanilla lead to fruit leather flavors. It seems quite evolved for its age.

Pamplin 2015 JRG Columbia Valley (OR) $30 91 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (86%) makes up most of this wine, with the balance Merlot. Aromas of spice, graphite and cherry are followed by initially subdued fruit and barrel flavors that emerge over time. It shows a sense of restraint and sophistication along with more freshness than is typically found in the vintage. Give it time to open up. Editor's Choice

Pamplin 2016 Red I.Q. Columbia Valley $14 88 points
This wine is 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot, with the balance Petit Verdot. Coming from various Horse Heaven Hills, Red Mountain and Walla Walla Valley vineyards, barrel aromas are out front initially, with notes of vanilla and spice along with red apple. Cherry and apple notes follow, with the palate showing more of the same.

R.J. Wines 2018 Beyond the Pale Unmarked Boushey Vineyard Syrah Rosé Yakima Valley $19 86 points
Though the wine has a very pretty pale peach color, the aromas and palate can’t live up to the promise, with the latter seeming thick and heavy. Leesy aromas are out front, with apple notes lingering on the finish.

Sola 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $15 90 points
Generous aromas of citrus, herb and tropical fruit are followed by lean, puckering, white grapefruit flavors. It brings a captivating sense of acidity along with a lengthy finish.

The Royal Bull 2015 Royal Bull($#!+) Red Blend Columbia Valley $NA 90 points
This wine is half Tempranillo and half Grenache, with the fruit coming from Lawrence and Stoneridge vineyards on the Royal Slope. Fascinating aromas of peat, moist earth, red fruit, orange essence and dried tobacco lead to elegantly styled fruit flavors. It’s equal parts intrigue and delivery.

Below are my Wine Enthusiast reviews for May 2019. 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. 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.

85 wines reviewed in the May issue of Wine Enthusiast.

Cool vintage or warm vintage, great vintage or challenging vintage, Woodinville’s Avennia just keeps making top quality wine. I have never seen them miss. The Avennia 2016 Gravura Columbia Valley $40 (92 points, Editor's Choice) and Avennia 2016 Justine Yakima Valley $40 (91 points, Cellar Selection) only extend the winery’s winning streak. Among the things I love about Avennia’s wines is that they can always be enjoyed now but also in many cases offer profound aging potential. In winemaking, that’s the holy grail.


Winemaker Mari Womack at Damsel Cellars is quickly making a name for herself with delicious wines at affordable prices (Damsel 2015 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Syrah Columbia Valley $30, 90 points). The winery’s red blend is one of the best values of the year, a wine where when I looked at the price, I literally said out loud, “Wow!” You will too (Damsel 2016 Red Blend Columbia Valley $18 90 points, Editor's Choice).

The 2016 vintage sees Sleight of Hand Cellars return to Funk Vineyard after a short absence. It has been missed and is another bullseye for the winery (Sleight of Hand 2016 Funkadelic Funk Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $60 93 points, Editor's Choice).

Soos Creek always makes delicious, age-worthy, well-crafted wines that punch well above their weight class. The latest example is their Soos Creek 2015 Sundance Columbia Valley ($25, 91 points, Editor’s Choice).

I’ve written before about the challenges of the warm 2015 vintage, while at the same time noting that plenty of high quality wines were produced. Sparkman Cellars threads the needle with two tasty examples (Sparkman 2015 Ruby Leigh Columbia Valley $55, 91 points; Sparkman 2015 Ruckus Syrah Red Mountain $52, 90 points).

I wrote on my WWR Facebook page a while back about the J. Bookwalter 2018 Winter Rosé Nouveau. This is all Pinot Noir made in nouveau style and released the third Thursday of November. It’s assuredly long gone now but look for this early sign of the 2019 vintage this fall. If the rest of the 2018s look like this, we’ll be in great shape (J. Bookwalter 2018 Winter Rosé Rosé Nouveau of Pinot Noir Walla Walla Valley $25 90 points, Editor's Choice).

For Wine Enthusiast, I also cover Idaho wine, and there are a number of impressive wines from Idaho producers in this issue. They include: Bitner 2017 Riesling Snake River Valley ($17, 90 points, Editor's Choice); Huston 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon-Petite Sirah Snake River Valley ($44, 90 points); Huston 2017 Chicken Dinner White Blend Washington ($16, 89 points, Editor's Choice).

Enjoy!

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Avennia 2016 Gravura Columbia Valley $40 92 points
A blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon and 41% Merlot make up the majority of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc. With fruit coming from a who’s who of vineyards, the aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of dried herb, flower, thyme, cherry and graphite, showing a sense of delineation and detail that heightens the appeal. Exquisitely balanced fruit flavors follow. Bittersweet chocolate notes linger on the long finish. It brings a sense of gracefulness but has enough structure to reward some time in the cellar. Editor's Choice

Avennia 2016 Justine Yakima Valley $40 91 points
Grenache makes up 56% of this wine, with the balance 32% Mouvèdre and 12% Syrah. Brooding aromas of black pepper, cherry and raspberry lead to quite ripe, full-bodied, soft, sultry blue and black fruit flavors that carry through the finish. It needs time to be fully appreciated. Best after 2023. Cellar Selection

Bitner 2017 Riesling Snake River Valley (ID) $17 90 points
The aromas are vibrant, with notes of apricot, tangerine peel and flower. It drinks off-dry, with bright acidity, exquisite balance and a lengthy finish. Delicious stuff. Editor's Choice

Bitner 2016 Riesling Snake River Valley (ID) $17 86 points
Perfumed apricot, herb and flower aromas lead to off-dry, medium-bodied fruit flavors that persist on the finish.

Bitner 2015 Estate Tempranillo Snake River Valley (ID) $33 84 points
Light in color, with aromas of tire rubber, black olive, seaweed, hay and wet oak leading to lighter-styled fruit flavors with a grip of tannins. There are some interesting things to be found, but it doesn’t all come together.

Cedar River Cellars 2015 Watershed Merlot Columbia Valley $30 86 points
This wine is 100% varietal, with all of the fruit coming from Burgess Vineyard. The aromas bring unusual, not entirely harmonious notes of green pepper, savory herb, dark cherry and Robitussin. Soft fruit flavors follow, needing more structure to stand them up. It doesn’t all mesh.

Cedar River Cellars 2016 Ava’s Crush Barrel Select Cabernet Sauvignon Rattlesnake Hills $38 85 points
The aromas are light and hard to tease out initially, with faint notes of cherry and spice that open up to reveal plentiful green pepper and garden herb accents. Somewhat lighter-styled fruit flavors follow, with the concentration not all there. Dried tobacco notes linger on the finish.

Cedar River Cellars 2016 It’s a Long Way Barrel Select Cabernet Franc Yakima Valley $40 85 points
All of the fruit for this 100% varietal wine comes from Two Blondes Vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills. Plum, blackberry, baking spice and green notes are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors. It needs a bit more tannic structure to pull it all together.

Cedar River Cellars 2015 Bella Bella Barrel Select Syrah Columbia Valley $38 85 points
Not entirely harmonious mesquite, menthol, blueberry pie and blackberry aromas lead to somewhat lighter styled blue fruit and medicinal flavors. It doesn’t all work.

Cedar River Cellars 2015 Bella Bella Syrah Columbia Valley $34 85 points
All of the fruit for this wine comes from Burgess Vineyard. Unusual, not entirely harmonious aromas of blueberry, syrup, licorice, smoke and vanilla bean lead to flavors that show more of the same. The concentration starts out light, particularly in the middle, fleshing out a bit over time. Menthol notes linger on the finish. It’s an unusual offering.

Cedar River Cellars 2017 Reservoir Barrel Select Chardonnay Yakima Valley $33 84 points
Fruit for this wine comes from the Melody Lynne Vineyard. Aromas of vanilla and crayon lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors. The oak completely overrides the fruit.

Charles & Charles 2015 C2 Malbec Columbia Valley $45 92 points
This wine comes from Northridge Vineyard, one of the state’s premier vineyards. Blended with 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, vibrant aromas of ripe plum, licorice, dried herb and baking spice lead to full-bodied, well-balanced fruit flavors that carry on the finish. There’s great enjoyment overall, and the tannic structure helps give a sense of gravitas.

Cinder 2017 Dry Viognier Washington $23 88 points
Fruit for this typically Snake River Valley designated wine comes from Washington due to a 2017 Idaho freeze. Generous aromas of peach, orange essence and flower are followed by bone-dry fruit flavors, with peach notes lingering on the finish.

Cinder 2016 Syrah Snake River Valley (ID) $30 88 points
Aromas of cherry, blueberry syrup, vanilla and high-toned herb are followed by a textured, drawn out palate full of blue fruit and vanilla flavors. It has a nice yum factor.

Clone 7 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $14 86 points
Aromas of green and jalapeño pepper are at the fore, with dark fruit following. Plentiful, but lighter-styled black currant flavors follow. It comes off as a bit underripe but still brings easy drinking appeal.

Clone 7 2017 Chardonnay Columbia Valley $13 86 points
Aromas of lemon, white peach and spice are followed by sleek but slightly viscous fruit flavors. It’s a straight down the fairway offering of the variety.

Clone 7 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $9 86 points
This wine carries light aromas of apple skin and herb. The medium-bodied palate is viscous in feel, with creamy fruit flavors to help round out the experience. Best Buy

Clone 7 2016 Red Blend Columbia Valley $13 85 points
This is all Syrah in a red blend label. Baking spice, macerated plum and cherry aromas lead to quite lightly styled fruit flavors. The concentration is light, but what’s there is pleasant.

Clone 7 2016 Merlot Columbia Valley $11 84 points
Aromas of plum, baking spice and sugared currant are followed by quite lightly styled fruit flavors. The concentration isn’t all there.

Clone 7 2017 Pinot Grigio Columbia Valley $10 84 points
Quite closed up apple aromas are followed by smoky, medium-bodied flavors. It doesn’t all work.

Damsel 2015 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Syrah Columbia Valley $30 90 points
The aromas are light, with notes of dark fruit and herb. Ripe, full-bodied fruit flavors follow. The tannins give a light squeeze at first, loosening their grip over time.

Damsel 2016 Red Blend Columbia Valley $18 90 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up half of this wine, with the rest 40% Syrah and 10% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of dark plum, blue fruit, herb and spice are followed by well-balanced flavors, with red fruit on the finish. It’s a pretty wine with a big yum factor and also an outstanding value. Editor's Choice

Damsel 2016 The Fates Boushey Vineyard Washington $36 89 points
Grenache makes up just over two-thirds of this wine, with the balance Syrah (25%) and Mourvèdre. The aromas are reticent, with subdued notes of raspberry, blueberry and white pepper. There’s a pleasing sense of elegance to the palate, with the flavors trailing slightly toward the finish.

Damsel 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $38 88 points
Aromas of herb, smoke, plum and barrel spice are at the fore, with notes of dried dark cherry emerging over time. Soft, initially lighter-styled fruit flavors follow. It’s an elegant expression of the variety with good things going on if they all stitch together and open up.

Gunpowder Creek 2017 Caleb Foster The Greatest Hits Alder Banks Vineyard Pinot Noir Walla Walla Valley $25 89 points
Pinot Noir is an extreme rarity in the valley, with this vineyard located up Couse Creek. Aromas of herb, cherry and a whiff of mesquite are followed by strawberry flavors that paint around the edges initially, fleshing out over time. It brings a sense of acidity that piques the interest, requiring some food alongside it to be fully appreciated.

Hedges 2015 Estate Grown and Bottled Red Mountain $30 88 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just over half of this wine, with the balance mostly Merlot and Syrah along with pinches of other varieties. Aromas of cherry meats, vanilla, wood spice and game lead to medium-bodied, well-balanced fruit flavors. A tart finish caps it off

Howlin Owl NV The Frivoler Red Blend Columbia Valley $17 88 points
Aromas of raspberry, cranberry and herb are followed by medium-bodied, tart, lively fruit and barrel flavors. There’s a lot to like.

Howlin Owl NV The Frochard Brut Rosé Sparkling Blend Columbia Valley $17 88 points
Strawberry, herb and cherry are followed by bright, lively fruit flavors. Enjoy it as an aperitif.

Huston 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon-Petite Sirah Snake River Valley (ID) $44 90 points
This wine is equally split between these two varieties. Intriguing aromas of ash, cigar box, dark cherry and herb lead to ripe, full-bodied fruit flavors. A silky feel heightens the interest.

Huston 2015 Merlot Snake River Valley (ID) $27 90 points
The aromas bring appeal, with notes of raspberry, cocoa and spice. Ripe, well-balanced fruit flavors follow. It’s a spot-on example of the variety that impresses start to finish. Editor's Choice

Huston 2017 Chicken Dinner White Blend Washington $16 89 points
Riesling and Muscat make up the majority of the wine. The aromas pop, with notes of ripe peach, flower and tangerine. Just off-dry stone fruit flavors follow, with lemon pith notes on the finish. It brings a pleasing sense of fruit intensity—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Editor's Choice

Huston 2016 Malbec Snake River Valley (ID) $29 89 points
This wine is sourced from Parma Extension, Sawtooth and Williamson’s vineyards. Fruit tones are at the fore, with aromas of blueberry pie and plum, along with spice and herb accents. Medium-bodied blue-fruit flavors follow on the palate. It shows a lot of finesse and detail, with an appealing sense of purity and balance.

Huston 2017 Chicken Dinner Rosé Washington $19 88 points
Aromas of strawberry and cherry are followed by plentiful mountain strawberry and kiwi flavors. It brings unabashed appeal.

Huston 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Snake River Valley (ID) $32 86 points
Aromas of dried tobacco, herb, cherry cola and spice are followed by full fruit flavors with a soft sense of texture and light structure for the variety.

Idilico 2015 Garnacha Yakima Valley $20 88 points
Aromas of raspberry candy, cranberry preserve and herb are followed by ripe, plump, fruit-driven flavors that have a pleasing yum factor. Pair it with pizza.

Idilico 2015 Monastrell Columbia Valley $20 88 points
Aromas of black pepper, cherry and cola are followed by broad fruit flavors that still retain a sense of elegance. It has a very pretty feel.

Idilico 2017 Albariño Yakima Valley $15 87 points
Aromas of lemon balm and candlewax lead to medium-plus-bodied fruit flavors. It seems a bit weighty, getting bogged down at times.

Idilico 2015 Reserva Tempranillo Yakima Valley $30 86 points
The color shows a bit of bricking. Char, dried tobacco and spice aromas are followed by somewhat lighter styled fruit, game and barrel flavors.

Indian Creek 2016 Reserve Monastrell Snake River Valley (ID) $26 88 points
Pale in color, with aromas that bring heaping amounts of black pepper, along with notes of herb, spice and a kiss of vanilla. It’s lighter in style, showing a pleasing sense of delicacy.

Indian Creek 2016 Merlot Snake River Valley (ID) $18 86 points
Light in color and showing some bricking, with aromas offering notes of candied cherry and cola. Medium-bodied but elegant fruit flavors follow. Drink now.

Indian Creek 2016 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Snake River Valley (ID) $30 85 points
The aromas are quite light and hard to tease out, showing a bit of herb, cranberry and cherry cola. Broad but still light, slightly sweet-seeming fruit flavors follow. Cranberry notes linger on the finish. Drink now.

Indian Creek 2016 Star Garnet Red Blend Snake River Valley (ID) $15 85 points
The color is light and shows some bricking. Faint aromas of red apple and spice lead to fruit flavors on the lighter side of medium bodied. Drink now.

J. Bookwalter 2018 Winter Rosé Rosé Nouveau of Pinot Noir Walla Walla Valley $25 90 points
This is the only wine I am aware of that is made in a nouveau style, with carbonic maceration and released the third Thursday of November. All made from Pinot Noir (Gamay is scarce in the state), the aromas bring bright, fruit-forward notes of strawberry and cherry. It’s made in a transparent style, showing a lot of purity, with nervy acidity backing it up. Editor's Choice

Love That Red 2016 Zinyatta Zinfandel Columbia Valley $36 85 points
Raspberry jam, fruit leather and citrus aromas lead to full-bodied, quite sweet-seeming, high-octane fruit flavors that finish hot. It doesn’t all work.

Mt. Fury 2016 Merlot Wahluke Slope $17 87 points
Intriguing aromas of plum, high-toned herb and baking spice are followed by soft, generous fruit flavors. The concentration at times seems a little light, especially through the middle, but what’s there is nice.

Mt. Fury 2016 Chardonnay Ancient Lakes $16 85 points
Lemon curd, lees and spice aromas are followed by sleek stone fruit flavors. It seems a bit light, and the lees influence gets in the way at times.

Mt. Fury 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Wahluke Slope $19 85 points
Plum, herb and spice aromas are followed by elegantly styled fruit flavors. It brings appeal, but the fruit concentration is quite light.

Mt. Fury 2016 Red Blend Wahluke Slope $17 83 points
Lightly volatile aromas of blue fruit, spice, caramel and citrus are followed by a lighter styled palate. The concentration seems lacking.

Pomum 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $32 88 points
Intriguing aromas of dark raspberry, incense, plum and anise lead to ripe fruit flavors that
 up in the middle. A tart, cranberry-like, slightly medicinal finish caps it off. The warmth of the vintage shows.

Pomum 2016 Upland Vineyard Riesling Snipes Mountain $16 88 points
Bright aromas of ripe apple, flower, peach, lime and herb lead to just a hair off-dry, medium-bodied fruit flavors. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best.

Pomum 2015 Shya Red Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $42 87 points
The 100% varietal, light herb, cherry and spice aromas lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors. The tannins bring some dryness and grit that softens a bit with time open.

Pomum 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $24 86 points
This wine is 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Cabernet Franc, 12% Malbec, 9% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot. Aromas of plum, cherry, herb and cranberry lead to short-seeming cranberry flavors. It doesn’t all work.

Sawtooth 2016 Classic Fly Series Tempranillo Snake River Valley (ID) $30 88 points
Aromas of vanilla bean, coconut and ripe red apple are followed by soft-feeling fruit and barrel flavors, with caramel notes on the finish. The oak plays a prominent part in the show.

Sawtooth 2016 Trout Trilogy Syrah Snake River Valley (ID) $35 87 points
Aromas of raspberry, cocoa, plum, vanilla and spice are followed by ripe, sweet fruit flavors with vanilla laced throughout. The oak influence gets a bit in the way.

Scoria 2016 S Petit Verdot Snake River Valley (ID) $28 88 points
Aromas of plum, black currant and baking spice are followed by plump, plush, lively fruit flavors. It’s a well-made wine that delivers a lot of appeal.

Sleight of Hand 2016 Funkadelic Funk Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $60 93 points
This is the return of this Rocks District wine to the lineup after a several year absence. Aged 20 months in neutral oak, the aromas exude appealing notes of black olive tapenade, smoked meat, potpourri and fire pit. The palate shows exquisite balance, intensity and restraint to the fruit and savory flavors. A pleasing sense of freshness and a hyperextended finish cap it off. Editor's Choice

Sleight of Hand 2016 Psychedelic Stoney Vine Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $60 91 points
Grilled and fresh asparagus, soot, wet rock, black pepper, black olive brine and herb aromas lead to light, elegantly styled fruit and savory flavors that bring a sense of delicacy. It’s a very pretty interpretation of this site—the winery’s most elegant to date.

Sleight of Hand 2014 The Illusionist Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $52 91 points
Dried herb, black cherry, dark fruit, coffee and spice aromas are followed by a palate that brings a sense of refinement for such a warm vintage. Best after 2020.

Sleight of Hand 2016 Levitation Syrah Columbia Valley $45 90 points
Most of the fruit for this wine comes from Lewis Vineyard, along with splashes from Les Collines and Ziggy Stardust. Aromas of plum preserve, jarred cherry, violet and dried stem lead to plush fruit flavors. It’s a bit more elegant than its alcohol level might suggest.

Sleight of Hand 2014 Archimage Columbia Valley $52 90 points
This wine is nearly equal parts Merlot (53%) and Cabernet Franc. The aromas start out reserved—it’s almost a strain to get at its notes of spice, plum, herb and cherry. The palate is considerably more giving, showing a pleasing sense of balance and length. Give it some time to open up, and it delivers.

Sleight of Hand 2016 Spiders From Mars Ziggy Stardust Block Syrah Walla Walla Valley $100 89 points
This is the winery’s first release from its block at Elevation Vineyard, a new, higher up planting by the north fork of the Walla Walla River. Reserved aromas of potpourri, black pepper, crushed basalt, raspberry and plum lead to light fruit flavors with a fresh lick of acidity. It’s equal parts intrigue and delivery.

Sleight of Hand 2015 The Illusionist Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $52 88 points
The aromas offer notes of herb, black fruit, graphite, cocoa, plum and spice. Compact, somewhat bunched up-seeming fruit flavors follow. It needs time to come together.

Sleight of Hand 2015 Archimage Columbia Valley $52 88 points
Cabernet Franc (57%) is in the lead on this wine, with the rest Merlot. Aromas of plum, green herb, green pepper and spice are followed by nuanced fruit and herb flavors that flesh out with time open.

Sleight of Hand 2016 The Enchantress Old Vine French Creek Vineyard Chardonnay Yakima Valley $28 88 points
Aromas of lemon curd, almond skin, apple and toast are followed by medium-plus-bodied fruit flavors that bring a sense of weight. Bright acidity backs it up.

Sleight of Hand 2016 The Sorceress Grenache Columbia Valley $45 88 points
Light in color, this is a blend of fruit from Upland, French Creek and Elevation vineyards. The aromas offer notes of cherry Jolly Rancher, white pepper, potpourri, blueberry and herb. Black and green olive notes emerge over time. Elegant, not fully concentrated fruit and savory flavors follow. Give it time to open up.

Soos Creek 2015 Sundance Columbia Valley $25 91 points
Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon make up nearly equal parts of this wine, which is finished off with a healthy dollop of Cabernet Franc. High-toned notes of dried herb, black cherry and bittersweet chocolate are followed by plump dark fruit flavors. Chocolate notes linger on the finish. It’s a bit bunched up at present but has the stuffing to go the distance. Best after 2021. Editor's Choice

Soos Creek 2015 Vielles Vignes Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $50 90 points
This is the winery’s first old vine (Vielles Vignes) offering from this esteemed vineyard. The aromas show notes of assorted dried herbs along with black cherry. Dark fruit flavors follow, with the tannins bringing a bit of grip. Best after 2022.

Soos Creek 2015 Artiest Series #15 Columbia Valley $35 89 points
This wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (56%) and Cabernet Franc (40%), finished off with Merlot. Aromas of savory herb, dried herb, golden raisin, anise and cherry lead to well-balanced fruit flavors. The tannins give a slightly dry squeeze, needing some time to stretch their legs.

Soos Creek 2017 King Cab Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $18 88 points
Aromas of savory herb, green pepper, game, licorice and dark fruit lead to plump golden raisin and cherry flavors. It’s straight down the fairway.

Soos Creek 2015 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain $40 88 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (57%) makes up most of this wine, with the rest nearly equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of dried and fresh herb, barrel spice, anise and black fruit are followed by plump black cherry flavors. The tannins seem a bit dry out of the gate. If they settle in, there’s good stuffing.

Sparkman 2015 Ruby Leigh Columbia Valley $55 91 points
A blend of 56% Merlot and 22% Cabernet Franc make up the majority of this wine, with the balance equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. The aromas start out high toned, with notes of dried herb, raspberry, cherry and licorice. Plump, juicy fruit flavors follow. It brings appeal and freshness for such a warm vintage.

Sparkman 2015 Ruckus Syrah Red Mountain $52 90 points
The aromas are reserved, showing notes of raspberry, plum, fresh herb and crushed rock, along with kisses of flower. The palate brings ripe dark fruit flavors, with the warmth of the vintage on display.

Sparkman 2015 Kingpin Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $65 89 points
Inviting aromas of cocoa, vanilla bean, coffee, flower, herb and graphite lead to a palate that paints around the edges. The tannins bring a firm grip. The wood seems prominent out of the gate. Give it some time to integrate.

Sparkman 2015 Stella Mae Columbia Valley $55 89 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up over two-thirds of this wine, with the rest Malbec and Petit Verdot. The aromas seem wound up out of the gate, with notes of graphite, vanilla, cherry and licorice. Ripe, saturated roasted coffee bean and cherry flavors follow. The oak gets out front of the fruit at times.

Sparkman 2017 Birdie Riesling Columbia Valley $18 87 points
The aromas are quite light for the variety, with notes of jasmine, lime and flower that take some time to tease out. It drinks dry with a slight bitter note on the finish. The variety seems a bit hard to find.

Ste. Chapelle 2016 Open Air Snake River Valley (ID) $22 88 points
The aromas are closed up out of the gate, with notes of herb, bittersweet chocolate, graphite and barrel spice. The flavors are light and fresh, painting a bit around the edges but bringing a pleasing sense of acidity. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best.

Ste. Chapelle 2017 Special Late Harvest Riesling Snake River Valley (ID) $12 86 points
Aromas of peach, honeysuckle and herb are followed by sweet, sugary apricot flavors. It needs some more acidity to pull it together.

Telaya 2016 Turas Red Blend Snake River Valley (ID) $32 86 points
Dark plum aromas are at the fore, along with notes of tire rubber and spice. The palate falls a bit flat, with the concentration wanting. Caramel notes linger on the finish.

Three of Cups 2016 L’Astre Syrah Walla Walla Valley $30 88 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Les Collines and Riviere Galets vineyards. Brooding aromas of dark fruit, plum and herb lead to full-bodied black fruit flavors. The warmth of the vintage is on display.

Va Piano 2016 Rosebud Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Wahluke Slope $95 92 points
The aromas bring immediate appeal, with notes of dried herb, barrel spice and black fruit. Rich but well-balanced fruit flavors follow along with a lengthy finish. It has a nice yum factor. Some time in the cellar will be rewarded. Best after 2023, with a long life in front of it. Cellar Selection

Va Piano 2016 Stoney Vine Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $65 91 points
Hailing from the Rocks District, with aromas that pop with notes of green herb, green olive, fire pit, flower and charcuterie, leaning hard into the savory. Light, palate coating flavors follow.

Va Piano 2016 DuBrul Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $95 90 points
Locked up on first pour, this wine opens to reveal aromas of the blackest cherries, cedar and spice, with the warmth of the vintage on display. Rich, hedonistic dark fruit flavors follow, surrounded by a lot of structure. It’s a power-driven interpretation of this vineyard. Best by 2024.

Va Piano 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $50 90 points
Appealing green herb, plum, green pepper, dark fruit, bittersweet chocolate and spice aromas lead to dark fruit flavors that show a sense of balance and restraint. It shows a touch of astringency but also polish, with barrel notes lingering on the finish.

Va Piano 2015 Syrah Walla Walla Valley $50 88 points
The aromas are quite light, making you lean into the glass to get at the notes of cigar box, herb and tire rubber. The palate shows more generosity, with a lovely sense of balance. If the two sync, it could move up.

Va Piano 2016 Les Collines Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $65 88 points
This wine comes from one of the valley’s premier Syrah sites. Raspberry and cherry aromas lead to fruit flavors surrounded by an astringent feel. The vineyard seems hard to find. Perhaps some time in bottle will soften its edges.