I recently returned from a wine trip out west and the wines I tasted and the people I met were both fabulous. The exceptional grape growing climate coupled with top notch winemaking has established Washington State as one of the new hot beds in the world of wine. The majority of the grapes are grown in the southeast region of the state which is virtually a desert and usually only gets 6 to 8 inches of rain a year. In this climate the grapes suffer and therefore gain complexity. Also the long daylight hours is great for the maturation of grapes and the drastic diurnal variation between day and night helps to preserve the acidity in the grapes. Believe it or not Washington State also is located on almost the same latitude(46 degrees N) as the great wine regions of Burgundy and Bordeaux. If your looking for everyday drinking wines or for collectable lay down wines this state offers both. The climate is great for red and white varietals and the style is all its own, offering wines that have ripe fruit, balanced acidity and fabulous complexity and always a finesse and mouth feel that’s silky and even velvety. Red varietals that perform in this climate are Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Lemberger, Malbec and even Sangiovese. For whites check out the incredible Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Even some of the less planted red grape varietals like Tempranillo and Barbera are turning out to be excellent. One of the highlights of the state is the fantastic blends being put out. These continue to be some of the greatest wines for the price. Washington State wines are also superb food wines because of their balance and mouthwatering acidity. Definitely check these wines out for the holidays. Here is a list of some of my favorites in reds, whites and blends coming from the state.

1) Snowqualmie Winemaker’s Select Riesling 2007 – Award winning year after year and a must try for any Riesling lover. Aromas and flavors of spicy pear and apricots with a touch of honey and sweetness on the finish. Pair with Turkey, Ham, Asian cuisine or with light fruit deserts. 

2) Chateau Ste. Michelle Pinot Gris 2007 – Same grape as the Pinot Grigio from Italy but made in a fuller style. This is always a favorite of mine and consistent vintage after vintage. Ripe melon and orange aromas and flavors of green apple and spice. Crisp and clean. Great fish wine! 

3) Kiona Cab/Merlot 2003 – This is one of the greatest value reds coming out of the state. Almost half of the grapes in this bottle come from Kionas Red Mountain estate vineyards and 2003 was a fab vintage. The Williams were one of the first to plant vineyards in the area and Scott Williams winemaking is focused and articulate. Pair with prime rib and lamb. 

4) Hedges CMS 2006 – This wine is made from another pioneering wine family and always over delivers. The wine is 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot and 4% Syrah. Aromas and flavors of ripe black cherry and nice toasted oak notes. Great bang for the buck. Pair with Tri-Tip off the grill. 

5) Desert Wind Ruah 2005 – The grapes used in this succulent blend come from the famous Wahluke Slope and show through in the glass. Ruah is a blend of 45% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of black cherry and spice with flavors of blackberry and chocolate on the palate. Pair with a friend. 

6) Novelty Hill Merlot 2005 – Mike Januik is considered one of the greatest winemakers in Washington State and with this wine I would probably believe it to be true. The 2003 made Wine Spectators Top 100 List and the “05” vintage is another stellar vintage for Washington. Aromas and flavors of plum, black cherry and baking spice. This wine will make you see why this state is considered the great Merlot state. Pair with grilled pork or just by itself. 

Hope you discover a gem or two!
Jeff Anderson
Sommelier