Washington State's consistent weather contributed to yet another stellar vintage in 2006. The familiar climatic spring and summer patterns were followed by a few cool weeks in September that slowed ripening and provided for excellent phenolic maturity without excessive alcohol levels. This year we introduce our first Tempranillo based wine, aptly named "Tinto," to our lineup of outstanding wines. We hope you get a chance to enjoy them!

Salud

 
In Spanish speaking countries if you want red wine you order "Tinto". In Spain you will typically be given a red wine made with the classic Tempranillo grape. Our 2006 Tinto was grown from some of the very first plantings of this varietal in Washington. Even though the vines are young and viticulture techniques are still being refined, our first encounter with the varietal shows great promise. The nose of the dark crimson wine exhibits elegant dark fruit and licorice aromas, characteristic of Spanish Tintos. Its medium body follows with plum and blackberry flavors and lush tannins. The wine incorporated 20% Cabernet Sauvignon for structure and mid-palate enhancement. Enjoy on release or cellar through 2010. Only twenty-six cases available.
 
In 2006 we selected our best lots to produce our signature red blend from the classic varietals traditionally grown in the Bordeaux region in France. The composition is similar to past vintages with 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec, and 1% Petite Verdot. Vineyard sourcing include notable names such as DuBrul, Elerding, Dineen and Upland. The Yakima Valley character shines through with bright and racy cherry, raspberry and cola aromas wrapped in an intensively perfumed nose of exotic spices and aromatic herbs. The full body mouth feel shows great acidity, tremendous structure and an endless source of fruit; all traits that will ensure enjoyment for years to come. Aerate aggressively if consumed young. Otherwise best from 2011 on…. Three hundred and ten cases produced.
 
Our 2006 Syrah represents a perfect example of the potential this varietal has in Washington State. The nearly 50/50 blend from two exceptional vineyards in two unique AVAs comes to us from Elerding Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills and Upland Vineyard in the Yakima Valley. The wine greets us on the nose with nuanced blackberry, Bing cherry and toast followed by delicious tart pie-cherry and jam flavors. Impeccably structured and with well rounded tannins, this wine rolls on and on for what seems to be an eternity. Decant if opened in the near term, otherwise enjoy from late 2009 through 2015. One hundred and seventeen cases produced.