Summary: Boudreaux Cellars is a small winery located in Leavenworth, Washington. Winemaker Rob Newsom was attracted to the area by its spectacular rock climbing routes (for you climbers out there, the winery is located near “Classic Crack”).

Boudreaux gained a huge boost last year with a positive review from phenom Gary Vaynerchuck of Wine Library TV. Wenatchee World also recently wrote an interesting article on Boudreaux. Avalonwine.com also provides good information on the winery and winemaker.

Boudreaux Cellar’s wines all have a very distinctive style. The noses of these young wines were not particularly compelling to me, marked by cola and soy notes. However, the taste of all the reds was smooth and spectacular with lots of grip on well-integrated tannins. All of the red wines need extensive time in the bottle and/or decanting. I would expect over time the nose will evolve and change considerably.

Of these wines, Newsom says the 2004 Syrah was his “problem child.” The grapes were at 27 brix when picked. The wine underwent secondary fermentation for one and a half years. Interestingly, in the end, it turned out quite well.

Wines:

Score

Name

Notes

$

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Boudreaux Cellars Chardonnay 2006

The wine is somewhat cloudy and color, reflecting the unfiltered style. Hay and lemon are predominant on the nose. A very nice, full wine on the palate. 100 cases produced.

$36

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Boudreaux Cellars Merlot 2005

Black licorice (like the kind in the box). Light cola and soy notes, along with a very light menthol note. Lighter on the palate than I would expect with a huge grip on the finish. Needs time and/or decanting. 150 cases produced.

$40

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Boudreaux Cellars Syrah 2004

A fascinating nose that is somewhat difficult to pin down with ground pepper and roasted pepper notes occasionally showing through. A chewy, thick, beautiful taste that coats the tongue.

$40

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Boudreaux Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

A big nose with cola, light soy notes, fig, and spice. A chewy, big wine that needs lots of time to grow up but will be exceptional. Consider extended decanting if drinking in the near future. 80% Cabernet; 6% Merlot
4% Cab Franc; 3% Malbec
3% Petite Verdot; 2% Syrah; 2% Sangiovese. Alcohol 13.5%. 1400 cases produced.

$50