Guardian Cellars is one of the many wineries located amidst Woodinville’s office parks. The winery and wines are named after winemaker Jerry Riener’s previous life as a policeman.

Prior to starting Guardian, Riener worked for six years at Mark Ryan Winery. Guardian’s first vintage was two barrels of cabernet in 2003. The winery is sourcing fruit from some excellent vineyards, including Stillwater Creek, Conner Lee, Kiona, Klipsun, and Destiny Ridge.

Wines:

Score

Name

Notes

$

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Guardian Cellars Angel Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley 2007

Bone clear. Lots of mineral notes and cantelope with a bit of sharpness at the end of the nose. A good effort that is very well balanced. 14.1% alcohol. 140 cases produced.

$20

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Guardian Cellars Gun Metal 2005

Light in color. Black pepper, light anise, spice and baking chocolate on the nose. A pleasing, medium-bodied taste with an excellent mid-palate. Chalky tannins and a medium length finish. A slight unevenness at the very tail end is all that holds this wine back. 14.7% alcohol. 400 cases produced.

$35

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Guardian Cellars Chalk Line Columbia Valley 2006

Marionberry, brambleberry, and a little spice mixed with chocolate. Full and rich on the palate. 50% Cabernet; 22% Malbec; 17% Syrah; 11% Merlot. 14.7% alcohol.

$25

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Guardian Cellars Syrah 2005

Classic Rhone-style nose with mineral, brambly fruit, and a touch of blueberry syrup. Lighter on the palate. Very well balanced. Opens up nicely and lingers. 14.9% alcohol. 14.9% alcohol. 56 cases produced.

$35