Jeff has joined the fray in tasting wines to choose for the wine club. We (Josh and Jeff) have the fun task of tasing over 100 wines every month to procure the best for you. Our goal is to vary the selection, variety, scour for deals and push the envelope from time to time. Hope you enjoy the October selections!
WHITE #1 – Sparkman Cellars Pearl Sauvignon Blanc (WA) $24.99 – From the spectacular 2019 vintage, we melded sauvignon blanc from cooler sites at Oasis, Olsen and Gamache Vineyards (loads of natural acidity) with bits of racy riesling (more acidity), and grenache blanc (yet more acidity) and even a pinch of rich roussanne (fruit and texture). This vintage leads with a nose of lemon zest, cut grass and crushed rocks, leading to zippy flavors of stone fruit, kiwi, lime, and fresh herbs.
WHITE #2 – Orr Wines Old Vine Chenin Blanc (WA) $24.99 – Chenin Blanc has quickly become my (Josh’s) favorite white wine produced in Washington. It shows so much intrigue and bala. nce of acidity without getting too zesty or flabby. Real chenin character with dried-pineapple and peach-skin aromas that follow through to a medium body, tight and juicy fruit and a phenolic, slightly tannic finish. Fun. Dry. Drink now. 91pts JS
RED #1 – Ambassador Envoy (WA) $29.99 – This wine falls under the category as remarkable deal. Retailing for $38 on the Ambassador website we were able to secure a great buy on this wine. 76% Merlot 13% Petit Verdot 11% Cabernet Franc 100% estate grown on Red Mountain and crafted by the team at Mark Ryan Winery. Rich bursting blackberry and red currants with slight citrus and sweet earthiness. The palate is lively up front with a nice round mid palate that leads into a firm finish with flavors of blackberry, clove, vanilla and cedar. 90 pts Jeb Dunnick
RED #2 – Noble Tree Reserve Grenache (CA) $27.99 – Perfumed aromas of rose water and cherry blossom erupt on the nose. This overly aromatic wine has loud notes of ripe raspberry, strawberry and white pepper. Although this 100% Grenache is lean, the palate is rich with warm woodsy red fruit flavors with nice spice and balanced acidity. A tremendous example of an Estate Grenache grown in a cool climate. 90 points Wine Enthusiast
RED #3 – Bodegas Calar Abrego (SP) $16.99 – Named for the easterly wind that brings rain. 100 percent Tempranillo from gentler slopes, with yields restricted to two kilos per vine. Aged nine months in used French oak. Polished fruit and lead pencil minerality lead to a plush and gracious yet mouthwatering flavor and finish.
PREMIUM CELLAR WINE
Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet (CA) $79.99 One of Napa Valley’s Premium Cabernet producers. The Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is ruby in color with a magenta rim. It has an enticing nose of cassis, blackberry, vanilla, sage and spearmint. Upon entry, this wine builds from potpourri and bramble to a bright pop of raspberry on the mid-palate. A juicy finish with chewy tannins and a medium length, it will provide drinking pleasure through 2042 with proper cellaring. 93 points Wilford Wong