May 2024 - Washington

Most of Washington’s vineyards are located east of the Cascade Mountains. The climate on the eastern side is very different than you might imagine; it’s dry and sunny/semi-desert! Very large glacial rivers, including the Columbia River, flow through Washington making it possible to support a large farming industry. Before wine was planted in Walla Walla, WA the city was famous for sweet onions and apricots the size of your hand.

Washington has a short growing season, hardly any rain and sun shining for up to 17 hours a day. Winters are very cold. Typical grapes grown here are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc.

Some of Washington's Columbia Valley and Walla Walla wine regions cross the border into Oregon.

White

Boomtown Sauvignon Blanc, 2022 Columbia Valley

Rich fresh and zesty with a lip-smacking mix of key lime, passion fruit and grapefruit. The layers of fruit a complemented by a salty minerality, flinty tones and some deep grassy petrol notes. Food Pairings: Summer patios, fresh seafood and all types of Pacific Rim fare. (WE 86 pts)

Barnard Griffin Rosé, 2023 Columbia Valley

Impressive, assertive aromas and flavors of melon rind and strawberry with hints of raspberry and pomegranate -Jolly Rancher comes to mind. Dry, bright, crisp and refreshing. (WE 88 pts)

Boomtown Pinot Gris, 2022 Columbia Valley

Crisp acidity and peppy acidity are this wine's calling cards with notes of pink apple. It smells like fresh laundry, washed with lemon-lavender French laundry powder, drying on the line. Thyme and sesame seed scents add interest. The wine close with lemon verbena tea, thyme and rosemary flavors. (WE, 90 pts)

Alexandria Nicole Shepherds Mark White 2019 Horse Heaven Hills

This year’s Roussanne-based blend (45% Roussanne, 27% Marsanne, 28% Viognier) displays pleasing floral notes, backed by stone fruit, and tropical aromas of grapefruit and mango on the nose. A weighty palate filled with tangerine, honeysuckle and Meyer lemon gives way to a bright backbone of acidity, balancing out the wine and providing a sustained and elegant finish.

Red

Boomtown Merlot, 2021 Columbia Valley

Delivers red cherry and cocoa powder laced red cherry aromas alongside shades of underbrush. The palate is plush and smooth, with no rough edges. Straightforward and juicy red and dark fruit flavors mingle with minerals and a neatly done texture on the palate. Sturdy, showing good weight, enjoy this outstanding value now and over the next few years. Drink 2023-2029. (OB 91 pts. WE 89 pts)

Requiem Red Blend, 2020 Columbia Valley

This is a sassy blend of Syrah and Merlot - full and juicy with ripe, gushing, velvety black fruit flavors. You may find black currant, dark cherries, briar patch fruits, blueberry jam, licorice, and dark chocolate. Robust, spicy and warm, this is a great companion for roasted dishes at the table and lively conversation.

Requiem Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020 Columbia Valley

There's some really rich and ripe cherry, vanilla, cola and mocha-latte flavors here, with the wine's sturdy tannins and lively acidity maintain a sense of balance. Aromas include blueberries, orange peel and an interesting soy sauce with sticky rice note. (WE 88 pts)

Barnard Griffin Syrah, 2020 Columbia Valley

Complex, layered and elegant, this Syrah features tart cherry/plum, bittersweet chocolate and well-integrated oak spice flavors.