With things returning to somewhat of a normal routine I (Josh) am able to taste wines with distributors again. This month’s line up represents some of the best wines I tasted. Many of them include deals you will be hard pressed to find locally. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.
FIRST WHITE: Gard Vintners Rose Grand Klasse (WA) $24.99 – It is always fun to choose a rose wine for the lead white spot in May or June. Rose of Grenache and Mourvedre; Explosive nose of grapefruit, watermelon, dried strawberry and spring flowers. Some air adds muddled fresh red berries, white blossoms and a gorgeous hint of fresh mint and basil. One of the juiciest and textured Rosé’s we’ve made to date with melon, citrus and hints of white pepper spice on the palate. 91 PTS Wine Enthusiast
WHITE TWO: Sonder Rousanne (WA) $19.99 – I fell in love with the Sonder line up but they were hard to get over here from Seattle so I gave up on them. Imagine my surprise when one of our favorite distributors picked them up. Wine maker Riley Miller is part of what is known as the ‘lo-fi’ movement of wines. These are wines that have low intervention and low alcohol. Essentially let the wine be the wine. teely in structure, fanning out with expressive and vibrant layers of yellow apple, fresh lemon, honey, almond and baking spice. Stays focused on the mouthwatering finish.
RED ONE: 2015 Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel (CA) $29.99 – Great deal on this wine listed elsewhere for $35-40. This is a big boy wine from one of the most respected Zinfandel producers in the US. Plums, blackberries, cedary spice, and peppery herb notes all emerge from the 2015 Zinfandel Old Vine, a straight-up classic expression of this variety. More tobacco and cigar notes develop with time in the glass. It’s medium to full-bodied, has plenty of tannins, and is beautifully balanced. It will keep for a decade. 94 Points Dunnuk and Parker
RED TWO: 2016 Double Canyon SV Cabernet (WA) $28.99 (CLUB ONLY) – I couldn’t pass this deal up on a cellar worthy (or drink now) Cabernet. This is the BIG BROTHER single vineyard Cabernet to the $20 Double Canyon Horse Heaven Hills Cab. Retail is $65, most places sell for $40. A club only price of $28.99. It will be on the shelf to others for $39.99. The 2016 Double Canyon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon expresses great depth and concentration of flavors, with a long, generous palate that opens up on the entry. Deep, dark garnet in the glass, aromas of red currant and coffee beans are joined alongside hints of polished leather, caramel cassis and pine. The palate has a bright entry, moderate tannins with pleasing length and complexity, and an elegant finish. The flavor profile is characteristic of our estate vineyard, displaying notes of cherries, red fruit, and rose hips. 94 points Dunnuck
RED THREE: 2015 Northstar Merlot (WA) $27.99 – Only a few of you get this third tier wine but it is a tried and true staple for me AND a perfect representation of why Washington makes great Merlot. Rich concentrated aromas of black cherry, plum, mint, cedar, and chocolate that lead into flavors of black raspberry and vanilla. The wine is big and bold and was created to enjoy now, or for many years to come as it will age gracefully. Pairs well with herbed leg of lamb, beef, and grilled vegetables. Blend: 77% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot 91 Points James Suckling
PREMIUM TIER WINE 2011 Arcanum Toscana (IT) $84.99 – I’ve been eyeballing this wine for a few years just waiting for the opportunity to bring it in. It always sat at $100 which was too much for this tier. A deal came in and I didn’t hesitate. Here it is! From a dark ruby, almost purple opaque core, it exudes a moderate intense wine displaying aromas of wild raspberries, cherry pie compote with cinnamon dust accents and red flowers. The flavors match the aroma profile yet are structured with a prominent earthy, lead pencil and dusty mineral essence. Spicy notes of pepper and hints of cedar frame a richness which extends to a long youthful finish. Blend: 77% Cabernet Franc, 14% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot; 93 points Parker and Suckling
