Celilo grows some of the most distinctive and eagerly sought-after Chardonnay in Washington, and this little-known producer does a stand-up job with the fruit. Gorgeously etched with bright lime tones around fresh apple/pear fruit; good concentration, balance and length in a subtle style that shows the minerality to full advantage.
— P.G.
(9/1/2006)
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is pushing 15% alcohol, but does not descend into Pruneville; the fruit is super ripe, slightly sweet, open and luscious, with slightly candied flavors. Cherry pie and chocolate-covered strawberries come to mind, but the acids support both fruit and barrel and keep the wine lively and inviting.
— P.G.
(8/1/2008)
A mix of vineyard sources accentuates the strawberry and cherry-preserve fruit flavors with dappled herb and earth. The effect is to add detail without mass, and it makes for a wine whose flavors belie its almost-15% alcohol. Sweet black-cherry fruit and a lick of espresso from the mix of barrels make this an exceptional Syrah for the price.
— P.G.
(5/1/2009)
Barrel-fermented and put through complete malolactic fermentation, this well-made Gris may have started out quite acidic, but the winemaker has softened things up without sacrificing the crisp definition. Fresh apple flavors with suggestions of honey and lemon to add interest set this up as an archetypical summer seafood wine.
— P.G.
(8/1/2006)
This is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Kestrel View Estates. Aromas are classically varietal, with Yakima Valley herbs and strong accents of leaf and licorice. The fruit is polished and the tannins ripe; the alcohol just over 14%.
— P.G.
(3/1/2010)
A nice effort, with well-ripened fruit that shows streaky plum and cherry flavors, layers of mineral, licorice and smoke. It all adds up to a plenty flavorful wine, with a lot of texture and a lively, extended finish.
— P.G.
(5/1/2004)
Very nice texture, and snappy fruit led by green apples and pear skin. There is an undercurrent of gravel, from the volcanic soil that is full of shot-sized rock. Sharp, clean and very flavorful.
— P.G.
(2/1/2006)
Folks seeking low alcohol wines should be sniffing around San Juan Vineyards; this clocks in at just 11.4% alcohol. Though very light, and very delicate, it is not without interest. These grapes have the sort of ephemeral resonance that you can’t get in the eastern Washington desert. Hints of honeycomb, melon and sweet hay combine and cluster in a lingering finish.
— P.G.
(12/1/2007)