Shady Grove works with a number of varietals not currently seen elsewhere in the state. Albariño, also called Albarín Blanco and Cainho Branco, is a white wine grape grown in northwest Spain and northwest Portugal. Shady Grove is to my knowledge the first to cultivate this varietal in Washington. The Graziela is a mixture of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Juan Garcia. Graciano is grown primary in Spain in Rioja. Juan Garcia is native to the Fermoselle area in Zamora, Spain.

Purchased from City Cellars in Wallingford, Seattle.

Score

Name

Notes

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Shady Grove Winery Albariño Coyote Canyon Vineyard HHH 2007

Straw colored. Honeysuckle, buttery oak, lemon zest, and spice shine through on a wine that offers pleasing acidity and tartness. Very enjoyable and would pair well with seafood. 100% Albariño. 44 cases produced. Recommended.

$15

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Shady Grove Winery Graziela 2007

Black and blue fruit mix with spice, floral notes, and hints of diesel. A bit more thin than expected on the taste and seems to have a somewhat strange after-taste. The right food might bring this wine alive. 50% Tempranillo; 25% Graciano; 25% Juan Garcia. 150 cases produced.

$20

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Shady Grove Winery Big Nose Red McKinley Spring HHH 2007

Dark and purply with lots of cola and brown licorice. A dense, thick wine that provides a lot wine for the money. 39% Cabernet; 34% Syrah; 24% Cab Franc. 1,000 cases produced.

$14