Clover, white pepper, and a whiff of animal make this blend of 75% Mourvèdre, 20% Syrah and 5% Grenache compelling now, but it’s certainly a wine to cellar. The aromas move through a spectrum of flower, spice, fruit and animal. It already displays tremendous length and superb aging potential.
— P.G.
(7/1/2012)
As excellent as this was was in 2009, the 2010 has reached an almost-ethereal level. The aromatics alone are transportive, with the concentrated essence of raspberries and blueberries at optimal ripeness. The flavors are deep and long, elegant and powerful, and they lead into a finish that’s anchored in notes of mineral and dark chocolate.
— P.G.
(4/1/2013)
Jon Martinez, who arrived in Washington barely six years ago, is knocking the ball out of the park. Improving with each new release, he has locked in a stellar collection of vineyards, and made Rhône-style wines his focus. This is a revelation. Pure berries, cassis, rock, earth, licorice, and a hint of baking spices. Gorgeous.
— P.G.
(9/1/2011)
Another stellar effort from this terrific new winery. Luscious aromas—stone fruits, candy, wax, peel, honey, cumin, allspice—it just keeps on going. Firm in the mouth, with the same exotic and refined blend of interesting spices and fruits. A tour de force.
— P.G.
(7/1/2011)
This Viognier is easily Maison Bleue’s best yet, and it sets a high standard for every Viognier in the state. It’s superrich and concentrated without being fat, jammy, bitter or hot. The explosion of citrus, stone fruit and light tropical fruit flavors seems to extend indefinitely on the finish. Details of mineral, baking spice and honeysuckle add interest.
— P.G.
(4/1/2013)
As fine a Grenache as I have yet tasted from Washington State. The aching purity of the fruit, married to the density, focus and minerality, is breathtaking.
— P.G.
(9/1/2011)
This lacy, fine-tuned Grenache displays superb aromatics that are still a bit raw. One gets the feeling that as good as the juicy, young grape and berry flavors are, this wine has more complexity lurking below the surface. Berry, mineral and bright spices elevate the finish, much like a youthful Montsant.
— P.G.
(7/1/2012)
Fragrant and spicy, this opens with green pepper notes and boatloads of prickly/brambly raspberry/strawberry fruit. From a cool vintage, the blend includes 15% Syrah. It’s nicely handled, with great penetration and a dancer’s precision.
— P.G.
(9/1/2010)