Recently in Columbia Valley Category

I have long been a fan of this under-priced second label. I have purchased half racks of this wine for the past few vintages and it always delivers at that price. On the nose, youthful, medium intensity, plum, blackberry, violet, black licorice, moderate oak, and not really any oak to speak of. On the palate, dry, not tannic, but med+ structured, tar violets, pepper, good black fruit component, leafy vegetal element, not earthy, and not oaky. Good character for the dollar. I have not consumed the last 04 if that means anything.

Really interesting nose of meat, black currants, dark berries, dairy, and black pepper. The price tag on this wine is one of the highest in the state of washington, and for good reason, the pedigree of fruit and winemaking is as good as it gets. Officially, Parker gave the 2003 100 points, but there were rumors of a make-up call because the 2002 was better and should have received the higher score, or some shit like that. This wine was very enjoyable, but was more of a finesse wine and I was hoping for some power and structure. I just had a two ounce pour, so this could have evolved further, hard to say. I however, wouldn't spend the money on this wine, and feel like it's a drink now, as apposed to the 2003 that wasn't showing as well as it will be when it matures and integrates.

Great Nose. Black raspberry, cassis, and loads of cassis, Vanilla, choco covered cherry, tobacco. All on a medium bodied frame, with good acitity. This is my friend Patrick's favorite producer and for good reason. This wine had character as all of their wines do.