Sean P. Sullivan's Northwest Wine Report

Harvest season: part choreography, part critical response as winemaking teams throughout the state juggle grape delivery with sorting, crushing and storing. Resident photographer Richard Duval spent weeks on the road from Chelan to the Columbia River Gorge, capturing the frenzy and the joy of harvest.

The following are standout wines from recent tastings.

Aluvé Primo Volo Walla Walla Valley 2012 $48
This is the inaugural release from this winery, and this Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend impresses with aromas and flavors of poblano pepper, spice, vanilla and cherry.

Andrew Will Champoux Vineyard Red Wine Horse Heaven Hills 2013 $74
Merlot and Cabernet Franc make up the bulk of this wine, which displays aromas, and flavors of earth, flowers, black plum, and green herb along with a sense of texture that captivates.

Andrew Will Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Wine Red Mountain 2013 $64
This blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc brings aromas of huckleberry, green herbs and light barrel accents. The flavors are rich and dense with chewy tannins providing support.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from October 15^th to 21^st. Read previous round-ups here.

From around the country…

Wine Spectator writes that Constellation buys five Charles Smith Wines brands for $120M. They also give a harvest report for Oregon.

Shanken Daily News writes about the Charles Smith sale. Read a follow-up here.

The Santa Rosa Press Democrat writes about the Charles Smith sale.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from October 8^th to 14^th. Read previous round-ups here.

From around the country…

Wine Spectator writes about a new winery at the starting gate in Oregon.

The New York Times writes about putting together the details of Oregon Pinot Noir.

The Wall Street Journal writes about a home above a winery in Lake Chelan.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from October 1st to 7th. Read previous round-ups here.

From around the country…

Wine Enthusiast magazine writes about the changing face of Washington Syrah (article by yours truly).

Wine Spectator writes about Jackson Family purchasing Willakenzie Vineyard.

A round-up of stories on Northwest wine from September 22nd to 30th. Read previous round-ups here.

From around the world…

Torontoist writes about what Ontario wineries can learn from Oregon.

The Yorkshire Post writes about how a winery on a Seattle industrial estate is making a name for itself.

Cayman Compass writes that Oregon wines offer character and distinction.

We've passed the six week mark on harvest, which began on August 13th with a pick of Sauvignon Blanc at Artz Vineyard in Red Mountain by Woodinville's Auclair Winery. Below is a look at harvest based on what has been picked when and where. Many expect harvest to wrap up around the middle of the month, though for some it will surely stretch out until the end of October, weather permitting. Enjoy!