Corklandia

What can Browne do for you?

2011-10-24T22:54:00.000-07:00

Well, hello there wine drinkers! It's been a while! Hope things are swell in your wine world. Life's has been pretty good on my end. Lots of wine tried, lots of friends made, and lots of yummy food consumed.

Now as an official pin wearing member of the Level One Court of Master Sommeliers, I feel like I can come to this blog with more perspective, more expertise, and more ideas for pairings. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to pursue a wine education and plan to continue.

Anyways, I know have a little Washington gem that I am really enjoying. This would be from the Precept Wine Group who has Waterbrook, House Wines, Canoe Ridge, and many others. Browne Family Cabernet really shines. The current release is 2008 and is 90% Cab with some petit verdot and cab franc to round it out. Unlike a Napa Valley cab, you aren't going to get a huge nose of dark chocolate, but more refined fruit, and dark cherry. I definitely recommend laying this one down, or decanting before drinking. Try this one with a flank steak, seasoned with the basics: salt and pepper. Best part? Less than $30. And very well worth it.

Cheers until next time!

Get thee to Alder Ridge

2010-03-31T15:20:00.000-07:00

In the huge influx of tasting rooms coming to Woodinville, I was lucky enough to discover a new gem... Alder Ridge! Bridget, who was running the tasting, was a great teacher about their wines, and I was really excited about another new tasting room.

The 2002 Meritage is amazing. It's $40 a bottle, but without a doubt, one of the best wines I have tasted in recent times. According to Bridget, quantities are limited on this one, so I suggest picking a bottle or seven before it's all gone. The composition of the wine is 36% Cab Sauv, 28% Malbec, 18% Merlot, and 18% Cab Franc. It's smooth and full bodied at the same time. Needless to say, I picked up a bottle of this.

I'll be getting over to some new tasting rooms more often if Alder Ridge is any indication of what's to come.

Thanks Bridget for being a gracious hostess!

New tasting room in.... Ballard?!

2009-11-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

I just happened to be reading myballard.com (since I like to pretend I live in Ballard), and it looks like there is a new tasting room in the area... Domanico Cellars. According to myballard.com, the tasting room is open on Saturdays from 12-5 and Sundays from 11-4. The website www.domanicocellars.com has all the info about wines and how to get to the tasting room. I wish I could check them out but I work on the weekends. If anyone tries them out, please let me know what you think!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-20T11:45:00.001-08:00

Wowzers... Here I make promises about keeping up and then I go again not doing it. Sorry! I got a job working at Northwest Cellars as the tasting room manager and am having a hoot. (Here is me on the left working away) So I once again neglect my blog.

Well, I am just reading that a Washington wine got the Wine Spectator Wine of the Year award. I am a bit surprised by the choice, but the fact that Washington is FINALLY getting some respect in the wine world is awesome. It's about time I say! (The winner was Columbia Crest Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2005, by the way. There are a few wineries on the list from Washington, so hats off to all of the winners.

Thanksgiving is fast approaching and many of you all will be heading out to family and friends homes for a feast. I wanted to suggest some great wines I have found. My first choice is Las Rocas de San Alejandro Garnacha 2007. I know it's not a Washington wine, but it's a Spanish wine.... and delicious. Its a nice ruby color with some earthiness on the nose, and I believe, wonderful with a Turkey dinner. It usually is about $20-$25 but this month at the Ballard Market, it's the featured wine of the month and a STEAL for $9.99. I'm going back myself and stocking up. You could definitely put this in your cellar for a couple years. Another great varietal is Pinot Noir.. I suggest the following: Ken Wright, Penner Ash, Owen Roe, and Argyle. These are all from Oregon, and a little higher in cost, but pinot is a great wine with turkey and the trimmings.

I hope you all have a fantastic, relaxing, joyous Thanksgiving. I'll be back sooner than later.

Benson: Brothers doing it right!

2009-09-16T17:43:00.000-07:00

The drive to Benson is a bit off the beaten path, but it's definitely worth it. Not only the wine is fantastic, but the view and the tasting room is absolutely beautiful! We happened to visit days after the new tasting room had opened, and it was packed. I guess word has gotten out, and the Benson family is reaping the rewards of a job well done. Scott and Jeff Benson are a riot. The brothers are the brains behind the business, and were also running the crowded tasting room while we were there, and made sure everyone was taken care of. This is how you run a tasting room! Add in that great wine and it's a win-win.

2008 Pinot Gris: A light colored wine with a citrusy nose. Super light easy drinking wine. Would be fantastic with Thai food, or even some spicy sushi. Yum.

2008 Estate Chardonnay: I didn't take many notes on it, but did put: "I like". I am not usually a chard fan, so that's a glowing review for me. Nice acidity.

2008 Viognier: I enjoyed this white as well. Had the right blend of notes: minerality, a bit of citrus. Viognier is awesome with any crab dish.

2006 Syrah: Delicious.... wonderful... fantastic. Nice to actually look out the window at the grapes you are now enjoying as wine. Such a good earthy nose, with a bit of smokiness. LOVE this wine.

2006 Cabarnet Sauvignon: This also was a great red, with lots of depth to it. Has a wonderful chocolate, smoky, earthy characteristic to it. Reminiscent of the great California Cabs. I think the Benson family shines with their red wines.

2006 Rhythm: Blend of Syrah, Sangiovese, Cabernet, and Merlot. Delicious, well matched blend. Lots of complexity, and I am kicking myself that I didn't get a bottle. I definitely will be heading back and stocking up.

*Thanks to Scott and Jeff, you made it a great visit!

Tunnel Hill, OK wine, yes, just OK.

2009-09-07T16:35:00.000-07:00

In all of the Chelan wineries that I went to, this was by far my least favorite. *Note to all wineries- you may have great wine, but the employees are honestly will MAKE or BREAK your visitors experience. The person working on the day I went did not possess characteristics of what a winery tasting room employee should have: a personality. But I digress, and let's discuss the wine.

2008 Riesling: We happened to go just when this wine was released. I think it needs a little more time in the bottle and if you do open it, it needs to get some air in it. It's a light straw color, and has a bit of minerality, but other than that.... not much. Give it more time and I am sure it would be better.

2007 Riesling: This one I liked much better. It had a lot of citrus on the nose, but it was very off dry on the palette. This would be the perfect summer drinking wine.

2007 Pinot Noir: A light ruby colored, very very light red. It has some cherry and fig notes on it.... would be perfect with a seared pork chop with a light balsamic reduction on it.

2007 Syrah: Definitely my favorite of all the wines. I tend to favor the syrahs from this region: good earthyness, good stone fruit, and smooth on the palette. I would drink this one with a big old steak. And mashed potatoes. YUM.

Nefarious, where wine is a family affair.

2009-09-07T15:28:00.001-07:00

Nefarious was one of my two favorite wineries in Chelan. Wine isn't just about the wine itself. It's about the people that make it. Dean and Heather Neff are wonderfully friendly people and they made our experience in the tasting room great!

It's always enjoyable to ask someone where they get their grapes and they can say, with confidence, "right there!" Yep, the grapes were right outside the window. The view of the lake was stellar, and the service of Dean and Heather, as well as the adorable and super friendly dog Lucy. Lucy will definitely be the first to greet you at Nefarious. Now on to the wines:

2008 Viognier: For the price (under $20) this is a wonderful white wine! It has a nice apricot nose, with a light mouthfeel. Isn't a heavy viognier and would pair well with crab~!

2008 Consequence: Very light white wine, with a bit of minerality and tastes of peaches, apricots, and even some citrus. Would be fantastic with any kind of fish.

2007 Syrah: I think this Syrah is definitely where Nefarious shines. (I took a bottle home myself) This a super fruity wine with lots to offer. There is a small tinge of smokiness on the nose as well as deep cherry and plum. I love the earthiness of this wine! They also add a very small amount of Viognier which adds yet a bit more of fantastic complexity. I would highly recommend this wine if you love a full body red wine that is great with meat, but I personally like just drinking it. It's awesome.

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon: Yummy cab with all the components I love: leather, chocolate, and that deep red of a good cab. Great price too: under $30! This would be a wonderful wine for any red meats, a hearty chili, or even a big pasta dish. Another great wine!

I highly recommend going to Nefarious. They are a wonderful winery, with great people working there!

Lake Chelan- Most improved in Washington!

2009-09-07T15:07:00.000-07:00

Not only is Lake Chelan absolutely beautiful, it is now officially the 11th AVA in the state of Washington! (AVA= American Viticutural Area)

I go to Lake Chelan every 4th of July with a friend of mine and experienced wine tastings over the years only to be truly disapppointed. I think the years have been very good to Chelan, and this year I ended up going home with a half of a case of fantastic wine.

If you have a chance to drive 3 hours inland, go to Chelan. You won't be disappointed.

TWO MONTHS?!?

2009-09-07T15:04:00.001-07:00

Where oh where has Carly, the Wine Princess of Washington been?

Let's see: got wine sales job, amazingly lost wine sales job, strep throat, endless job search.. which all turns into an equation for neglecting my dear blog.

*Sigh* But I am sitting here on a early fall day and realizing I have lots to blog about!! So, once again, I find myself apologizing and saying I am BACK.

Gorman Winery puts the Rock N Roll in Wine Tasting

2009-06-15T14:31:00.000-07:00

You ever walk into a tasting room and think, "I really wish so and so was here"? The minute I walked into Gorman, I thought I wish my dad was here. My dad isn't the big wine fan, no no, he is a fan of AC/DC, much like Chris Gorman, the winemaker. In fact, it was all AC/DC all the time, but it never took away from the enjoyment of my experience. (I may be disowned for this, but AC/DC really isn't my type of music, but I digress)

Chris has been making wine since 2002, and keeps the amount limited to about 1500 cases a year. He focuses on the Red Mountain area for his grapes, which for those not familiar with that area, the Red Mountain area is kick ass. I was lucky enough to meet Chris, and I can tell you, he is a NICE guy, laid back... no stuffiness from him. Add to that some good wine, and makes for a highly enjoyable wine tasting experience. On to the wine:

Rose 2008 42-39-56: I am not a huge rose fan in general, but this wasn't bad at all. This would be a perfect picnic wine. Would pair well with a nice bbq, chicken salad, veggies, or fruit. (I apologize but I didn't write any notes on this wine other than the name).

Zachary's Ladder 2006: This was my favorite one I tasted, and I took a bottle home. This is a blend of 65% Merlot, 25% Cab Sav, and 10% Petit Verdot. I know, shocking... it's mostly merlot, and I still like it! This wine a a wonderful inky color, and a nice smoky nose. Will pair wonderfully with some BBQ ribs, coleslaw, and corn on the cob.

Bully 2006: This wine is 80% Cab/10% Merlot/10% Petit Verdot. Another great cab dominant blend coming out of Washington! I would have loved to take a bottle of this home, but it was a little pricey for me. This one will develop more in the bottle, has that wonderful berry/earthy nose, and was delightful to drink.

If you feel like getting your inner rockstar on in Woodinville, go to Gorman. And try the wine while you are there.

Grand Reve is a "Great Dream" for Washington wine fans!

2009-06-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

Grand Reve is another MUST TRY in the Woodinville circle of wineries. (To be honest, the tasting room is ACTUALLY in Kirkland, but close enough) Grand Reve is a collaboration of work with several prominent winemakers, with the best of the best grapes from the Red Mountain region. They are planting their own estate vineyards, so I am sure future vintages will be absolutely amazing.

The winemakers involved in this are:
Ben Smith of Cadence
Mark McNeilly of Mark Ryan
Ross Mickel of Ross Andrew
Carolyn Lakewold of Donedei
Chris Gorman of Gorman
Not too shabby of a collaboration.

Onto the wine:
2006 Grand Reve Sangiovese by Mark Ryan McNeilly: This wine is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Syrah. Only 50 cases were made of this little gem. Not the typical big jammy sangiovese you may be used to, but still delicious. Although it does a bit of that jammyness on the palate, the syrah makes the finish a little longer, and a bit more enjoyable. I think that a bit more time in the bottle for this wine will do nothing but improve the body of this wine. (also to note, I am a huge fan of Mark Ryan wines, so this wonderful wine definitely falls into another masterpiece by Mark).
2005 Grand Reve Collaboration Series I by Ben Smith: This is a blend of 62% Cab Sav, 13% Cab Franc, 13% Petit Verdot, 12% Merlot. Now this wine had more cases produced: a whopping 198. This wine had a nice light ruby color, but a big earthy, almost mushroom like nose on it. It's delicious, but again, I would cellar this wine and wait for the true excellence of this wine to be revealed.
2006 Grand Reve Collaboration Series III by Mark Ryan McNeilly: This wine is 100% Syrah with 268 cases produced. Like many other Syrahs, this has the wonderful inky color and a blackberry nose. This has a long finish and is very well balanced.
2006 Grand Reve Collaboration Series II by Ross Andrew Mickel: This wine is 97% Syrah with 3% Viognier. Has a wonderful earthy nose and the small bit of viognier provides a bit floral on the nose. Like many of the other ones it will definitely get better with age. This one was definitely my favorite of the tasting.

I also got to try a Merlot not "on the list" but I didn't even take any notes on it. Like the other wines, it was tasty, but not as memorable. The tasting room is only open on Saturdays from 1-4, but I suggest you go. Now.

I am back, with an apology.

2009-06-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

Goodness me... I look at how long it's been since my last post, and I have nothing to say but... I am SORRY!

I have been working in a new wine sales position and it's taking up a large amount of time. Therefore, my pobrecita little blog has been very neglected.

However, I am dedicating a few hours a week now to work on my blog from now on.

Just like a good wine, life has to have the right balance to be successful!

Carly

DeLille is now open to the masses.

2009-05-06T20:48:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Sorry I have been MIA. I hope those of you who went to Passport weekend enjoyed yourselves and were safe. I know that at my stomping grounds, Brian Carter, it was controlled chaos.... but the masses were well behaved. To that, I say thank you!

OK, so now to the winery... DeLille. It's now open to the public. I suggest you go!

So as my little car bottomed up the precarious hill, I knew I wasn't in Kansas anymore Toto! The tasting room looks like a house you would find in the hills of Napa Valley. You have to open a big, heavy door to get in and then walk up the stairs. I can totally see being intimidated by this. I was a bit hesitant to even go in. But, luckily, I knew one of the pourers... Karen. Whew.

The fee for a tasting is 15 bucks, which by far may be the costliest I have witnessed thus far in Woodinville. I know it's not as steep as Napa fees may be, but still!

Ok, off to the wines:

Doyenne Rousanne 07: This was one of the two whites I tried. A nice light straw color, but wasn't wowed by this Rousanne. In fact, in looking over my notes, both whites basically have nothing. Which is not really a good sign.

So I will move on to the reds!

Signature Syrah (Doyenne): Perfect inky color that I LOVE in a Syrah. Most of the grapes come from the Red Mountain, which turns out a lovely syrah. Perfect steak wine.
Syrah Grand Ciel Vineyard: So you ever try a wine, and go... "hmm... they KNOW this is good". This is one of those. They charge a whopping 75 bucks a bottle for this wine. Its a perfect syrah, not too "spicy" perfectly smooth and balanced. It will hold up in the wine cellar for a few years.
D2: This beauty looks like it may be sold out now. So if you see a bottle of the 2006 vintage somewhere... pick it up! Get this... its 52% merlot, and I like it. Then 38% Cab Sav, 7% Cab Franc, 2% Petit Verdot. Its a fantastic blend, and at 35 dollars, a great value for DeLille. Has a wonderful earthy nose, deep purple color, and smooth on the palette. Let it decant for an hour or so to open up those wonderful flavors before serving.

So all in all, DeLille is a good winery to go visit. However, I noticed a few customers not be allowed in at four thirty, when they closed at five. I kept my mouth shut as they mumbled about the staff being snobby. If you are reading this DeLille, take note.

Adams Bench, a hidden gem.

2009-04-17T21:44:00.000-07:00

So this upcoming weekend brings thousands (yes, literally thousands) of wine tasting, passport holding, and at times... less than well behaved masses to the city of Woodinville. Why? The masses are here for Passport weekend... that's why. They will be able to come to taste wine at one of many different wineries, many of them usually not opened to the public. Last year I was able to attend with my friend Jon, and it's really where I fell in love with Washington wines. This year.. I am working it.. and proud to call myself part of the Washington wine industry. Now, to all those are going... behave yourselves!

So tonight, the Hollywood area of Woodinville had a "preview to Passport" which included about 8 of the wineries. It was a beautiful, sunny afternoon, so I decided after work at my other job to head on over to a winery I hadn't been to and check it out. Behold: Adams Bench.

Adams Bench is definitely off the beaten path. You head up a long tree-lined street, up into what seems like a neighborhood.... but there are farms, animals, and best of all Adams Bench! It was beautiful there. They have a cute little barn like area where they conducted the tasting, and were ready to pour! (the pic on this posting is from Adams Bench)

I got to do two barrel samples, which is a treat in itself. (I got to do one at Baer last year and it knocked my socks off)

2007 Myth (Barrel Tasting): Half cab franc and half merlot. Definitely a smooth wine, that will get better with age. The cab franc takes away from the merlot, which is NOT a bad thing. This wine isn't being released til Fall of 2009, and I think that it will develop more complexity in the bottle. It's a wine to watch.

2007 Reckoning (Barrel Tasting): Merlot, Cab, Cab Franc.... yummy yummy jammy goodness. This has a lot of fruit on the palette and would be great with some ribs. Not being released til Fall of 2009.

2006 Reckoning: GOLD STAR!! Cab, Merlot, Malbec. This wine comes together perfectly. The nose on this wine reminds me of European styles: the earth, smoke, fruit. Excellent deep garnet color... and divine on the palette. I left with a bottle of this. I can't wait to grill a nice steak seasoned with salt, pepper... and dollop it with some horseradish.. have some potatoes, and corn on the side. Perfect food friendly wine.

2006 Reserve Cab "V": As noted on the tasting notes, it has a tremendous purity on the nose. The flavors, aromas, and color on this wine are all intense.. and fantastic. This is a wine that gets better with every sip. It's one to bring to a nice dinner party to wow your friends, and won't be too harsh on your wallet. ($42 isn't a screaming deal, but it's worth the price)

Thanks to all at Adams Bench... I am glad I made it out!

I will be back soon blog fans, I promise!

Efeste is rockin, Des Voigne is delish, and Guardian is sellin out!

2009-04-01T15:17:00.000-07:00

I am finally back to educate the masses about wine! Sorry for the extended absence. Let's get on it!

Efeste: This is one of the wineries in Woodinville to keep your eyes on. Brennon, the winemaker was just named "winemaker to watch" by Seattle Magazine. Considering there are over 500 wineries in Washington, this is a HUGE honor. They just recently opened an awesome tasting room (see pic on the left). I am a bit biased, since Efeste and Brian Carter produce wine in the same facility, but the wine also speaks for itself.

2006 Evergreen Riesling: With a light straw color, and a small bit of apricot, honey and minerality on the nose, this is a great, approachable riesling. Many rieslings are TOO sweet, but this is a perfect riesling. Very drinkable with a good meal.

2006 Ceidleigh Syrah:The grapes for this Syrah come from Red Mountain, which I think is why I like this wine so much! It has a great deep garnet color, with dark cherry and earth on the nose. It was aged in some French Oak, and would be excellent with a steak.

2006 Jolie Bouche Syrah: So this Syrah's meaning is "pretty mouth". It's a very smooth Syrah.. a little earthier than the Ceidleigh, but with more pepper on the palette. This would be a fantastic wine with gumbo, cassoulet, and yes, steak.

2006 Final Final: This is a FANTASTIC blend of cab and syrah. Its 50% of each, and they work together so well! This is the only blend they make, and it's perfect! Its layered with dark fruit, a tinge of smokiness, and a little earthiness. What to eat with? RIBS! BBQ! They would be fantastic.

2006 Big Papa: BY FAR THE BEST! 100% Cab, 100% perfection. Deep intense cab, smooth finish, and a lush red color. This has such a velvety mouth feel, and I just wanted to relish in my tasting for a while. I put *FAVORITE* in my tasting notes. If you love a good cab, please try Big Papa. It's nothing less than perfection of a straight varietal.

Thanks to Patrick and Daniel... you all ROCK.

Des Voigne Cellars: Just happened to walk by here Sunday, and saw they were open. I loved their "Untitled" blend which the next release will be 2010. But they still have some other gems.

2006 San Remo: A delicious sangiovese! Very smooth, drinkable, and would be delicious with any Italian food. The acidity of tomatoes would work perfectly with this.

2006 The Emcee: It's a merlot with a splash of cab. For a merlot, it's not bad. But as you fans know, merlot isn't my favorite.

2006 The Duke: The 2006 Duke combines Zinfandel, Petit Sirah, Lemberger, Merlot and Syrah. It has a rich blackberry and peppery palette, and would be delicious with a wild variety of foods.

2006 Montreaux Syrah: Dark garnet color, with bold flavor. I think this would stand up well with a big steak, loaded with pepper and even horseradish.

If you ever see a bottle of wine called "Untitled" by Des Voigne Cellars... BUY IT. It's sold out at the tasting room, and I ate at a restaurant and got the last bottle. It's fantastic.

Guardian Cellars: I got to try Guardian Cellars at an event a while back, and what I was really impressed with was Jerry's (the winemaker) passion for his wine, and his love of talking about it with others. He used to be an undercover cop, and then worked over at Mark Ryan winery, before branching out on his own. His wine shows that passion for wine making. Besides that, Jerry is HILARIOUS. He saw me putting down tasting notes and came over to check out what I was writing. I love going to tasting rooms where you can interact with the winemaker. Lets you see who is behind it!

2006 Syrah: This Syrah is from the Wahluke slope area, and its delicious. It has a nice even smokiness, that doesn't overwhelm the nose of the wine. There is also a little spice, and some fruit as well. This one could age for a little more time, but it's super drinkable now. Perfect with some steak.

2006 Chalk Line:Chalk Line is the "kitchen sink" of Guardian Wines, but I LOVE IT. Its mostly Cab (50%) with Malbec (22%) Syrah (17%) and Merlot (11%) that's a light ruby color, and totally drinkable NOW. This would be a perfect wine for a dinner party with an eclectic menu. It will pair well with a lot of food!

2005 Gun Metal: Yummmm. This wine is a blend of cab, merlot, and cab franc. It's aged 20 months in French Oak, and this wine is a smooth blend as well. I think the Cab Franc gives it a nice velvety, rich blend that makes it one of my favorites. It is definitely great on it's own, but would pair well with many foods. I keep going back to steak, but a hearty stew, or even chili would be fantastic.

Thanks to Jerry, Jen, and Lisa Baer (from Baer winery) for making my time at Guardian so enjoyable!

3 courses for $30? In "this economy"? Yes.

2009-03-16T15:17:00.000-07:00

I will be heading back into the trenches to work on my blog this weekend, but wanted to suggest you folks in the Seattle area check out some of the great restaurants that are having 3 course meals for $30 this month.

It's a great time to treat yourself to a good meal.

I may suggest the Barking Frog out in Woodinville, that has an amazing Washington wine list as well.

I'll be back in a couple days!

Woodhouse Family Cellars

2009-03-04T15:11:00.000-08:00

Magic in the NW continued on the day we went to Hollywood Hills... after words we headed to Woodhouse Family Cellars. This is tucked away in a warehouse area... and is a massive space. Kevin greeted us and we jumped right in to the wines. (Luckily I knew Kevin from Brian Carter Crush, so that was a nice bonus!)
Here we go:
Kennedy Shah 2006 Picnic Blend: This is a blend of Viognier, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc. It's a nice golden color with peach, pear, and honey on nose an palette. After getting my mind blown at Hollywood Hills with their Rousanne, this white was very underwhelming.
Kennedy Shah 2003 La Vie en Rouge: Ok, NOW we are talking. This is a blend of Malbec/Syrah/Cab Sav/Merlot. The Malbec makes up 41% of this wine, which if you like Malbec... you will love this wine. It has great silky tannins and a small bit of spice on the palette. It's really a good everyday drinking wine, and the value on it: $20!
2003 USS John C Stennis Malbec: Interesting history on this wine. The winemakers at Woodhouse made this especially for the crew of the USS Stennis when in town. The crew and ship are now out for a few years, so their loss is our gain. It actually has a nice, smoky peppery finish, which is GREAT for BBQ. Think brisket or ribs, slathered in sauce. It is a medium bodied wine and is versatile for food pairing.
2002 Kennedy Shah Syrah: This Syrah actually has a bit of Cab and Vioginer (yes Viognier, only 2%) It has a good inky color and good berry fruit on the nose. Kevin recommended this one with pizza... and that night I made a flatbread with salami, goat cheese, caramelized onions and kalamata olives and it paired wonderfully!

We also got to try the newly released 2007 Tempranillo. Which is delish, but needs to open up a little more. (It's what we would call "young") A little more time in the bottle will be great. *I picked up a bottle myself.

Thanks to Kevin!

Hollywood Hills... a gem.

2009-03-01T19:38:00.000-08:00

First of all, I am a big dummy and didn't take any pics this time around, because some of you may not believe it... it was a GORGEOUS sunny quasi-warm day here in the PNW. (Of course the day after some random snowstorm). I had a little time to kill waiting for my friend of 30 years, Robyn, to get done with a work thingy, so I did some research on where in the french toast to head to in Woodinville. First stop: The new tasting room for Hollywood Hills winery.

Hollywood Hills: Hollywood, here we come! I gave a call to make sure they would actually be open, and to my joy... YES! I went into their cute, modest tasting room where the absolutely adorable Becky Snyder (wife of winemaker, Steve) was there to greet us. Quick history: They actually had their old tasting room in the detached garage on their own property, where they do have some grapes growing. Becky showed us a picture: so pretty! They took the plunge and decided to get a tasting room in "tasting room country". I'll say... GOOD Move. They have great wine.
Hollywood Hills 2008 Rousanne from Horse Heaven Hills: HOLY &&&*(&*%^! Get this wine! Love this wine! I am NOT a big white wine drinker, but this is one that anyone could fall in love with. First, you don't see Rousanne very often in wines, let alone a straight varietal here in Washington. Secondly, try this wine. (Did I already say that?) This gem was just released and has a golden color with like honey and apricot on the nose. Palette wise.. a little sweet without being too sweet. PERFECT with seafood. This wine is $23 a bottle and worth every penny.
2005 Syrah Yakima Valley: So we got to try 3 syrahs, this being the first. It's a blend of 60% red mountain syrah and 40% Rattlesnake Hills (these being the places where the grapes are from) This one was in the bottle for 2 years prior to release. Nice, well balanced with hints of cherry and pepper.
2006 Syrah Rattlesnake Hills: So now you get a chance to taste the different areas of grapes on their own: awesome. This is what we could say is a masculine wine. Very European in style, tobacco and earth on the nose. Very plummy and bold on the palette. For $30, this is a great bold red. (I am loving on this one. Love the earthy nose!)
2006 Syrah Red Mountain: Nice jammy ripeness, without the spiciness that deters me from syrahs. Another must have in your wine collection.

Big thanks to Becky and Steve for letting me taste the wine. I see great things happening with this wine. If you are in the area, CHECK them out.

J Bookwalter and Novelty Hill/Januik

2009-02-26T20:45:00.000-08:00

The first stop on the wine tour with the bestie was Novelty Hill/ Januik. Now this is a beautiful complex, nice modern lines, big airy windows. But, I know this sounds terrible... it's cold. You don't get a welcome feeling when you step in the door. The staff are in a cement like island that doesn't oooze warmness. However, they do have many wines to choose from... so here we go:

Novelty Hill Stillwater Creek Viognier: had a light straw color with a tad bit of sweetness on the tongue. I think Viognier is PERFECT with seafood, notably crab. Next the Januik 2006 Columbia Valley Cab. Nice ruby color, with stone fruit (think plum) and a tad bit of smoky finish on the tongue. Nice smooth finish, good with a nice well done steak, served with a small dallop of horseradish. Then we did a side by side of two Syrahs:

2004 Novelty Hill Stillwater Syrah: Very full bodied, earthy, jammy with splash of pepper

2006 Januik Lewis Vineyard Syrah: Tobacco, a little jammy, and still needs to open up.

The 04 Syrah was actually divine.

Finally, they have a great "everyday" table wine which is also known as the 2006 Januik Red Wine. Blend of Merlot, Cab, Syrah, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. While Merlot, my least fave varietal is the primary focus at 43%, the rest of the grapes balance it out nicely. At $20, I would call this a must have for everyday drinking.

Novelty Hill is a great place to go to try a bunch of cabs. Impressive? not to me, but I think the coldness of the building itself has a lot to do with it.

J Bookwalter: I do have a little bias. J Bookwalter is our neighbor down the road, and we both go and send customers to each others tasting room. Nick, who works in the tasting room, is AWESOME. They really care about their wine, and it shows. First off, the Subplot. This is actually one of my favorite wines. For reals. The 2006 Vintage is a blend of Cab/Merlot/Malbec/ Cab Franc/Syrah/Petit Verdot.... which seems like a daunting blend, but it is AWESOME. I love this wine, and for the price (about $20)... you can't go wrong. It has a long lingering finish and would pair well with just about anything. (Pizza, steak, pasta... you name it) Keeping it short, go to J Bookwalter. The cabs and merlots (yes, I said straight merlots) are delicious. They are full bodied, yet velvety smooth and have a great mouth feel. The wines are all highly refined and I think more people should be in the know about Bookwalter.

Cement? Who knew?

2009-02-26T15:15:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, I am back to a blogging. So last week I grabbed my best friend and headed out to Woodinville on a GORGEOUS sunny day. I finally felt well enough that I could actually taste and smell, which, as you know, is vital to wine tasting.

Matthews- They are back! They were closed down for a short time while sorting somethings out, but the staff was ready to talk wine, and pour some delicious wine. First, was an amazing 2007 Sauvignon Blanc. What's unique about this wine is that it is aged in a concrete egg! (see above) It was amazing to be able to get close and personal to the eggs. They stay nice and cool, and I am sure this helps out in the wine development. These eggs were the first of their kind in the US up until recently. (Only one other winery has them!) This is a very unique process, and while some of the wine MAY leech into the cement, the wine is wonderfully clean, crisp and has a tropical nose with traces of minerality on the palette. I really am not a huge white wine drinker, but this was delicious. Another delicious wine was the Claret. It has a very deep color, and lots of body to it. This wine is smooth as can be, and would pair well with a nice steak. We also had the syrah. I think Syrah may be the big up and coming varietal for Washington. I always thought the wine was a little "too spicy" for my palette, but the more syrahs I try, the more I really appreciate them. Matthews KNOWS how to make Syrah. It's amazing. While Matthews wines are not inexpensive, they are very passionate about wine, and this definitely comes through in the wine. The staff is amazingly friendly and it was a wonderful way to cap off a great day.

I haven't forgotten you!

2009-02-23T16:30:00.000-08:00

I went to four wineries this past week with my assistant, AKA my best friend. I took lots of notes and pics, and will be updating in the next couple of days.
Wineries to discuss:
Novelty Hill
Januik
J Bookwalter
Matthews

I got to taste a myriad of quality wines and can't wait to share with you.

Happy Valentine's Weekend!

2009-02-13T16:32:00.000-08:00

I am sorry I haven't been up and posting this past week with anything new... I have been sick with a good old cold plus sinus infection. Boo! My smell and taste were gone which wasn't fun at all. Anyways, I am all better, and will try to head out this weekend to try some new places. When I think of Valentine's... I think of a nice romantic meal with a loved one. I challenge you to try a new wine. Like merlot? Do a cab! Like cab? Try a malbec! The only way to find out what you like and don't like is by trying new things.
ENJOY YOUR DAY!
Carly

Chateau Ste Michelle and Columbia.. the two big ones.

2009-02-06T17:38:00.000-08:00

So Woodinville has two big wineries that are pretty much the ones that people think of when they think of Washington wines. Columbia and Chateau Ste. Michelle. Before all you wine snobs stick your nose up at these two (I know, you are whispering, "Carly, I can get it in the grocery store, so why would you want to even bother going to the winery") Shame on YOU! (OK, I thought it too..) Anyways, I packed myself a little nibble and headed on over a few days ago to give them a try, and I honestly hadn't been to either in a while. First stop: Columbia Winery

Columbia Winery- Columbia used to be one of the wine stops on the Washington Wine train, which is no longer running, and there were rumors running rampant that Columbia was leaving Woodinville. Well, my trusty tasting room pourer Tyler let me know that they in fact are NOT leaving Woodinville. Another note to you who may come visit: go on a weekday. If you value getting one on one time with an employee, and like to hear about the wine, this is the time to go. Ok, to the wine!

1. The Yakima Valley 2007 Viognier: Great slight sweetness on nose, but definitely not on palette. Would be fantastic with seafood.. crab cakes would be divine.

2. Red Willow Vineyard 2005 Cab Franc: A nice subtle smokiness on the nose, with a stone fruit finish on the tongue. Excellent with a hearty stew or casserole.

3. I then did a side by side with Otis Vineyard Valley 2004 Cab (blended with Merlot), and next to it, the Red Willow Vineyard 2004 Cab (blended with Malbec) They were completely different. The Otis didn't have the fullness and complexity I look for in wine. But then again, I don't usually care for Merlot. Ever. (My opinion is NOT based on the movie Sideways, but probably my overindulgence in good old two buck Chuck)

4. I had a taste of the Peninsula blend, which was Cab, Merlot, Cab Franc, Malbec. That contained what I was looking for! Complexity! It was a 2001 and had opened up well. Would be fantastic with steak, or buffalo. (Note: if you haven't tried buffalo... do it! It's so good!)

5. Finally, the Columbia Valley 2006 Riesling Ice Wine. Buy it. Love it. 19% residual sugar.. it's pretty sweet... but it's has a nectar taste that a little bit will be enough for you.

I was very impressed with Columbia and thank you to Tyler for leading me through my wine tasting!

Chateau Ste Michelle- Kristina was my pourer at Chateau Ste Michelle. Luckily, again, it wasn't very busy so I got to get good one on one time. The grounds are breathtaking, and during the summer they have wine concerts, which I have yet to attend. So I tasted the basic four that are offered to the public, and then a couple other tastes as well.

1. 2007 Columbia Valley Viognier: another one that would pair well with seafood, but this one had a minerality to it. Probably would pair well with clams or mussels.

2. 2006 Columbia Valley Grenache: this had that great smoky flavor that I love... good full bodied wine. Would be great with pork tenderloin or even duck.

3. 2004 Indian Wells Merlot: I sipped, swirled, and spit out. It's Merlot. I can't get into it.

4. 2005 Wahluke Slope Syrah: Really good! not too peppery, it was full bodied. I took a bottle home.

*Notable mentions: Ethos 2005 Syrah: too tight, needed to open up..

Muscat Canelli only sold at winery: YUM. I bought a bottle. Sweet, without being too sweet.

Their ice wine is AMAZING so if you see it, buy it. But it will cost you $50!

Thank you Kristina for adding to a great afternoon!

Good wines from big wineries.... who would of thunk it?

Next stop... more smaller wineries in Woodinville.

Canlis..... WOW

2009-01-27T16:35:00.000-08:00

Go to Canlis if you have the chance to. The wine list is over 102 pages, and the wine stewards will steer you in the right direction if you need some help. The food plus the wine combo I experienced blew my mind. When I have a nice amount of money burning a whole in my pocket, I would go here.

Brian Carter, to start.

2009-01-26T16:03:00.000-08:00

See these bad boys to your left? These are amazing wines! I will tell you a brief history of how I got to know these wines, and end up working here. I used to work at a wine shop that carried these wines, yet hadn't tasted them. So one day, I was out in Woodinville wine tasting with my friend Jon and we decided to stop by here to try what I was selling at the wine shop. Hands down, I was amazed with every single one. I left there that day with a desire to try more good wine, and never to settle for anything but greatness. Brian Carter, the man, the myth, the winemaker has been making wine for over 30 years and NEVER settles on his wine quality. He branched on his own several years ago and now the awards and press don't stop! He makes wine in small amounts, you won't see over 1000 cases produced of his wine. And here's the kicker... his wine is MEANT to be eaten with food. So let me breakdown the wine. Starting from the left is L'etalon (The Stallion)- a true Bordeaux style, mostly Merlot. Perfect with a nice, peppery steak. This wine was just released in the fall, and I will tell you, its tasting MIGHTY fine now. The next is Byzance, which is a Châteauneuf-du-Pape style. A perfect blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre. PERFECT for the holidays or with lamb, ham, turkey. Has an excellent bit of spice. Next is Tuttarosso... the Super-Tuscan God of a wine. Being a Super Tuscan it's mostly sangiovese, blended with Cab and Syrah. Want some wine with pizza? Try this. It's amazing with Italian food, and based on my personal experience, wonderful on it's own. *please note: this wine is running low in stock, so I suggest you come and try, and see what my hype is all about. Finally here we have Oriana, the only white Brian makes. A blend of riesling, rousanne, and viognier. Sweet on the nose, but smooth on the tongue. Excellent with seafood. Other two wines not shown: Solesce, the Bordeaux style that's mostly cab and the most expensive at 58 dollars a bottle. But it's amazing, and that's all I even need to say. Once again, stock is running low on this gem... and we are not pouring in the tasting room, so I will just say... YUM. The last wine is Abracadabra.. which is a blend of the "leftover" grapes. This most recent vintage is 7 different grapes. It's the least expensive, at 20 a bottle, but very good for everyday drinking. Ok, that's a long post! I will try to be more concise on the next one... but please note, I may be biased since I DO WORK here and don't make any apologies for my opinions. Brian Carter knows how to make a kick ass wine.

Welcome Friends!

2009-01-26T15:33:00.000-08:00

Hello all! This is my first post on my wine blog. I am just still getting a feel for this, so bear with me as I go through the bumps and bruises. Just like any good wine, you have to weed those out before you get something magnificent! My first wine post, this week, will be about where I currently work, Brian Carter Cellars. Be prepared to be dazzled. See you soon!