Sean P. Sullivan's Northwest Wine Report

GILBERT CELLARS

Summary: Although a new winery, Gilbert Cellars has been receiving wide distribution in Seattle area wine shops and restaurants. The winery is located west of Yakima.

Wines:

Score

Name

Notes

$

+

Gilbert Cellars Claret Wahluke Slope 2004

A rich nose loaded with black and white pepper and black cherry. Black tea on the mid-palate and finish. 68% Cabernet; 12% Merlot; 10% Malbec; 10% Petit Verdot

$19

+

Gilbert Cellars Malbec Columbia Valley 2005

Pencil shavings and black cherry on the nose. A very full mid-palate and a great finish. A good wine overall. The nose is the only thing that holds it back.

$26

*

Gilbert Cellars Estate Syrah 2005

A classic Washington syrah with aromas of green pepper and the smell of wood after the campfire has gone out. Opens up and expands on the mid-palate with a good finish.

$26

CEDERGREEN CELLARS

Summary: Cedergreen Cellar’s logo is a simple, red square (red brillo stickers were even distributed at the event). Kevin Cedergreen’s wines, however, are anything but simple. The 2004 Thuja was one of the standouts of the event. Cedergreen Cellars is located in Kirkland, Washington.

Wines:

Score

Name

Notes

$

*

Cedergreen Cellars Thuja 2004

A California-styled wine on the nose with black tea and black cherry. Front loaded on the taste, but overall a very good wine.

$25

+

Cedergreen Cellars Thuja 2005

More subtle in style than the 2004 with spice and red cherry notes. Needs a little time to open up and show itself still. 80% Merlot; 20% Cabernet.

$25