Below are my Wine Enthusiast reviews for February 2017. Wines are listed alphabetically by winery. Read additional information on how I review wines here. All of these reviews are freely available on-line at the Wine Enthusiast Buying Guide. There is also a freely available Wine Enthusiast Tasting Guide app. See previous Wine Enthusiast reviews re-published in this space here. Search Wine Enthusiast‘s on-line database here.

189 wines reviewed in the February issue of Wine Enthusiast. They start off with a strong series of 2013 vintage wines from Andrew Will (Andrew Will 2013 Sorella Champoux Vineyard Red Blend Horse Heaven Hills $8392 pointsAndrew Will 2013 Esploso Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $6092 pointsAndrew Will 2013 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Blend Red Mountain $6492 pointsAndrew Will 2013 Champoux Vineyard Red Blend Horse Heaven Hills $7492 points).

Avennia impresses with two new Rhone-style wines, the Avennia 2014 Arnaut Boushey Vineyard Syrah Yakima Valley $50 (92 points) and new offering, Avennia 2014 Le Corbeau Discovery Vineyard Syrah Horse Heaven Hills $50 (91 points).

The 2014 Betz Family Winery Rhone releases are flat out delicious and include Betz Family 2014 La Serenne Syrah Yakima Valley $60 (93 points); Betz Family 2014 La Côte Patriarche Syrah Yakima Valley $60 (94 points); Betz Family 2014 Réserve du Soleil Rhône-style Red Blend Columbia Valley $85 (94 points); and Betz Family 2014 La Côte Rousse Syrah Red Mountain $60 (94 points).

Charles Smith delivers some knockout reds, including the Charles Smith 2013 Royal City Northridge Vineyard Syrah Columbia Valley ($14096 points) and Charles Smith 2013 Broncho Stoneridge Vineyard Malbec Washington ($7094 points).

The K Vintners wines also offer plenty of rewards (K Vintners 2013 Morrison Lane Syrah Walla Walla Valley $5594 pointsK Vintners 2013 The Creator Red Blend Walla Walla Valley $5594 pointsK Vintners 2014 MCK Motor City Kitty Syrah Washington $4093 pointsK Vintners 2013 The Hidden Northridge Vineyard Syrah Wahluke Slope $7095 pointsK Vintners 2013 King Coal Stoneridge Vineyard Red Blend Washington $10095 pointsK Vintners 2014 The Boy Grenache Washington $5094 points.

College Cellars offers some top quality wines, including College Cellars 2014 Summit View Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley ($3591 points); College Cellars 2014 Clarke Vineyard Petit Verdot Walla Walla Valley ($2491 points).

EFESTE offers a mouthful of fruit with its Efeste 2013 Final-Final Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah Columbia Valley ($3091 points). Also not to be missed is the Efeste 2013 Big Papa Old Block Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley ($6092 points).

Gramercy Cellars continues to be at the head of the glass with their Gramercy 2014 The Deuce Syrah Walla Walla Valley ($5493 points) and Gramercy 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley ($5092 points).

Pamplin Family Winery never seems to miss, and that trend holds true here (Pamplin 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $5093 pointsPamplin 2013 JRG Bordeaux-style Red Blend Columbia Valley $3092 points).

Rotie Cellars offers some top-flight 2014 Rhone-style wines (Rôtie Cellars 2014 Northern Blend Syrah Washington $4894 pointsRôtie Cellars 2014 Southern Blend Washington $4893 points).

Sleight of Hand Cellars also shows off its skill with Rhone-style wines (Sleight of Hand 2014 The Sorceress Grenache Columbia Valley $6092 pointsSleight of Hand 2014 The Psychedelic Stoney Vine Estate Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $6092 pointsSleight of Hand 2014 Levitation Syrah Columbia Valley $4592 points).

Charles Smith hits home runs with his Super Substance wines (Substance 2013 Super Substance Me Northridge Vineyard Merlot Wahluke Slope $5593 pointsSubstance 2013 Super Substance Me Stoneridge Vineyard Merlot Columbia Valley $4593 pointsSubstance 2013 Super Substance Bx Klein Vineyard Bordeaux-style Red Blend Walla Walla Valley $7594 pointsSubstance 2013 Super Substance Cs Stoneridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $5593 points).

Syncline Wine Cellars brings a strong set of releases with their can’t miss Syncline 2015 Subduction Red Blend Columbia Valley ($2292 points) and Syncline 2014 Mourvèdre Columbia Valley ($3592 points).

Top value wines include Charles & Charles 2015 Chardonnay Columbia Valley ($12, 88 points); Charles Smith 2015 Kung Fu Girl Riesling Ancient Lakes ($12, 90 points); Charles Smith 2014 Eve Chardonnay Washington ($1288 points); Milbrandt 2015 Traditions Sweet Katherine White Wine Evergreen Vineyard Riesling Ancient Lakes ($1390 points); Nine Hats 2015 The Benches Vineyard Pinot Gris Horse Heaven Hills ($1490 points); Vino 2015 Rosso Red Blend Washington ($1289 points);

However, my value wine of the year is the Wondrous 2013 Red I.Q. Red Blend Columbia Valley ($1491 points). It comes from a series of vineyards rarely seen at this price, including Seven Hills, Canoe Ridge, Wallula, Tapteil and Champoux. High quality juice for this price. Check it out!

***

3 Horse Ranch Vineyards 2014 Merlot-Cabernet Franc Washington $23 88 points
Light in color, this wine offers high-toned aromas of herb, cherry, clove, wood spice and exotic spice. The palate is quite elegant in style, wanting a bit more heft to fully bring it together.

3 Horse Ranch Vineyards 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Washington $23 87 points
Cocoa, bittersweet chocolate, herb, wood spice and cherry aromas lead to lightly styled cherry and cola flavors. The tannins bring a tacky feel.

Analemma 2012 Blanc de Noir Sparkling Wine Atavus Vineyard Pinot Noir Columbia Gorge $59 90 points
Tantalizing aromas of toast, yeast, raspberry and freshly sliced green apple give way to fresh and tart lemony flavors. It brings a real sense of freshness and vibrancy that runs from head to tail, with smoky notes on the finish.

Analemma 2014 Atavus Vineyard Gewürztraminer Columbia Gorge $27 88 points
The aromas are light, with notes of freshly cut apple and spice. It drinks dry with elegantly styled fruit flavors that linger on the finish. It shows a very pretty styling.

Analemma 2014 Oak Ridge Vineyard Gewürztraminer Columbia Gorge $27 89 points
Coming from a vineyard in the foothills of Mt. Adams, this wine offers quite light aromas of mineral, lychee, and spice. The just off-dry palate is more giving, with elegantly styled floral flavors that linger.

Analemma 2014 Oak Ridge Vineyard Chardonnay Columbia Gorge $36 89 points
Light aromas of mineral, brioche, green apple and spice are followed by sleek but flavorful palate. It shows elegance and detail.

Analemma 2014 Oak Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir Columbia Gorge $32 88 points
Pinot Noir is a relative rarity in Washington, this one coming from the highlands above the town of Husum. It brings aromas of earth, game, dried mushroom and strawberry that lead to plump elegantly styled fruit and savory flavors, with a finish that lingers.

Andrew Will 2013 Sorella Champoux Vineyard Red Blend Horse Heaven Hills $83 92 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up a little over three-quarters of this blend, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot rounding it out. The aromas start out brooding, with notes of pencil lead, black currant, flowers and green herb. The palate is focused, dense and textured, bringing an exquisite sense of balance along with a lengthy finish. Best after 2020. Cellar Selection 
Andrew Will 2013 Esploso Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $60 92 points
This wine is a new addition to the lineup. It opens with aromas of herbs, dark chocolate, barrel spices and dark fruit followed by a fresh lively palate loaded with dark-fruit flavors, fresh acidity and fine grained tannins, with the finish lingering.

Andrew Will 2013 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Blend Red Mountain $64 92 points
A blend of Merlot (56%) and Cabernet Franc, this wine opens with aromas of flowers, huckleberry, cardamom and green herbs, along with light barrel accents. The flavors are dense and rich but far from over the top, supported by chewy tannins and a fruit-filled finish that sails into the distance. Best after 2020. Cellar Selection 
Andrew Will 2013 Mays’ Discovery Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $52 91 points
Brooding aromas of earth, herb, dried leaf, black currant, blue fruit and barrel spice are followed by focused blue and black-fruit flavors. Lightly crunchy tannins back it all up.

Andrew Will 2013 Champoux Vineyard Red Blend Horse Heaven Hills $74 92 points
Merlot (44%) takes the lead on this wine followed by Cabernet Franc (29%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (18%), with the balance of blend of Petit Verdot and Malbec. Alluring aromas of black plum, earth, flowers and green herb are followed by generous, palate-coating dark-fruit flavors. It brings a sense of texture that captivates. Editor’s Choice

Andrew Will 2013 Two Blondes Vineyard Red Blend Yakima Valley $64 91 points
This wine is a blend of Merlot (44%), Cabernet Sauvignon (34%) and Cabernet Franc. Fragrant aromas of raspberries, orange peel, red currant and garden herbs lead to restrained but sumptuous fruit flavors backed by a lick of tart acidity. It brings a sense of presence and depth.

Animale 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $26 90 points
The aromas of orange peel and red and black fruit bring a sense of purity. The palate is fresh and restrained, showing no new oak influence and tart, fresh, acidity. Editor’s Choice

Avennia 2015 Oliane Sauvignon Blanc Yakima Valley $28 90 points
A blend of fruit from top sites Boushey (60%) and Red Willow, the aromas are light, with notes of straw, lemon pith and grapefruit. The flavors show an elegant styling, framed by a tart zing of acidity that stretches out the finish. It’s all about nuance.

Avennia 2014 Arnaut Boushey Vineyard Syrah Yakima Valley $50 92 points
Coming from one of the state’s most esteemed Syrah vineyards, this wine wins over fans by its brains rather than its brawn. High-toned aromas of dried herbs mix with notes of raspberry, blue fruit and iron. The flavors are fresh and layered, bringing a sense of vibrancy and deliciousness. Editor’s Choice

Avennia 2014 Le Corbeau Discovery Vineyard Syrah Horse Heaven Hills $50 91 points
A new addition to the winery’s lineup, this wine opens with aromas of underbrush, dark raspberries and red licorice. The palate shows an exquisite sense of restraint and polish along with a lengthy finish that kicks it up a notch. It’s a very pretty, thoroughly beguiling wine.

B. Leighton 2013 Olsen Brothers Vineyard Petit Verdot Yakima Valley $55 94 points
This is an exceptional example of this variety, with aromas of fresh herb, violets, orange peel and black fruit. The dark-fruit flavors are rich and layered, showing an exquisite sense of balance along with great length. Editor’s Choice

Barnard Griffin 2014 Merlot Columbia Valley $17 88 points
The fruit is at the fore here, with aromas of blue fruit, wet stone and spice, along with a whiff of tire rubber. The palate has sweet fruit flavors with nubby tannins and a tart coffee-filled finish.

Barnard Griffin 2015 Chardonnay Columbia Valley $13 88 points
The aromas of yellow apple, pear and spice are light but enchanting. The tart flavors bring a lightly creamy feel, showing a sense of poise. Best Buy

Barnard Griffin 2014 Signature Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $17 90 points
The variety is unmistakable, with notes of dried herb, dark cherry and espresso. The jammy fruit flavors are rich, with lightly grainy tannins and coffee notes on the finish. It shows a fine sense of balance.

Barnard Griffin 2014 Rob’s Red Blend Washington $13 88 points
Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon make up the majority of this wine, along with pinches of Syrah and Malbec. It shows aromas of candied strawberries, chocolate and coffee that lead to sweet but well-balanced red and black-fruit flavors. The balance is spot on. Best Buy

Barnard Griffin 2015 Fume Blanc Dry Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $13 86 points
Aromas of herb, grass, pear and citrus lead to sleek fruit flavors. It shows a lot of elegance but lacks concentration.

Basalt 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $28 90 points
Barrel aromas of toast and char are at the fore, followed by black fruit, graphite and spice. The palate is full bodied with ripe, generous dark-fruit flavors. The oak seems a bit heavy handed but there are lots of good things going on.

Basalt 2012 Malbec Columbia Valley $28 89 points
The aromas of dark plum, green herb and coffee bring a sense of purity. The flavors are soft, silky and elegant, with espresso notes lingering on the finish. It shows a sense of finesse.

Basalt 2013 Rim Rock Red Blend Columbia Valley $22 91 points
Malbec (46%) makes up most of this blend followed by 23% each Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot and finished with Cabernet Franc. It offers aromas of dark plum, currant, cocoa and spice that are followed by generous, textured and full blue and black-fruit flavors that bring a lot of hedonistic appeal. Coffee flavors linger on the finish. Editor’s Choice

Basalt 2014 Merlot Columbia Valley $26 91 points
Aromas of vanilla, clove, coffee and dark raspberry lead to a mouthful of rich layered fruit flavors. It shows impressive concentration, with fruit flavors lingering on the long finish.

Basalt 2014 Syrah Columbia Valley $28 91 points
The aromas of crushed flowers, blue fruit, vanilla and spice are quiet and reserved. The velvety full palate is considerably more pronounced, delivering generous coffee and blue and black-fruit flavors. It brings a lovely feel, with coffee flavors lingering on the finish.

Betz Family 2014 La Serenne Syrah Yakima Valley $60 93 points
Coming from one of the state’s most esteemed Syrah sites, this wine opens with high-toned aromas of herb, blue fruit and iron, along with light savory accents. The flavors are full, broad and palate coating, showing an exquisite sense of balance and length that kicks it up a notch. Exquisite stuff.

Betz Family 2014 La Côte Patriarche Syrah Yakima Valley $60 94 points
Hailing from the state’s oldest Syrah vineyard, this wine displays aromas of pure blue fruit, assorted herbs and whiffs of smoked meat. The palate is dense and seamless, with fine-grained tannins providing support. Its best days are far in front of it. Best from 2022 to 2030. Cellar Selection 
Betz Family 2014 Réserve du Soleil Red Blend Columbia Valley $85 94 points
This is the winery’s first attempt at a reserve-level Rhône-style wine. A blend of Mourvèdre (51%), Cinsault (27%), Grenache (18%) and Counoise, it leads with fragrant aromas of crushed flowers, thyme, smoke, white pepper and boysenberry. The mouthfeel is seamless and the flavors rich, along with exquisite balance and exceptional length. Editor’s Choice

Betz Family 2014 La Côte Rousse Syrah Red Mountain $60 94 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Ranch at the End of the Road and Ciel du Cheval vineyards. Brooding aromas of dark raspberries, black plum, spice and mineral are followed by ripe generous full-bodied fruit flavors that display a lot of hedonism while retaining a spot-on sense of balance. It’s sensational.

Betz Family 2014 Besoleil Red Blend Columbia Valley $48 93 points
This wine is a blend of Grenache (33%), Counoise (24%), Syrah (20%), Cinsault (17%) and Mourvèdre. Expressive fruit-laden aromas of red plum, raspberry, blue fruit and herb are followed by plump, pure fruit flavors, with the mouthfeel only adding the appeal. It’s a gorgeous interpretation of these varieties. Editor’s Choice

Brian Carter Cellars 2013 One Olsen Vineyard Merlot Yakima Valley $55 88 points
The aromas of cocoa and dark raspberry are speckled with light barrel accents. The red-fruit flavors are ripe and generous, dipping in the middle before coming back together on the elegant finish.

Brian Carter Cellars 2012 Le Coursier Red Blend Columbia Valley $38 91 points
A blend of Merlot (62%), Cabernet Sauvignon (23%), Malbec (6%), Cabernet Franc (5%) and Petit Verdot, this wine opens with aromas of cocoa powder, spice, dark cherries, savory herbs and flowers, displaying pleasing complexities. The palate is full of exquisitely balanced red and black-fruit flavors that sail off into the distance on the finish.

Brian Carter Cellars 2012 Tuttorosso Red Blend Yakima Valley $34 90 points
This wine is a blend of Sangiovese (66%), Cabernet Sauvignon (20%) and Syrah. The aromas are brooding, with notes of earth, toast, red fruit and spice. The palate brings tart tangy cranberry flavors that linger on the finish.

Brian Carter Cellars 2012 Solesce Red Blend Columbia Valley $65 92 points
The winery’s flagship wine, Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just over half, with the balance Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Despite its age, it starts tight as a drum, with light aromas of spice, dark cherry, coffee and dried flowers. It’s full flavored, with a dazzling richness to the textured fruit and barrel notes. Best after 2021. Cellar Selection

Brian Carter Cellars 2013 Corrida Red Blend Columbia Valley $34 91 points
This wine is a blend of Tempranillo (63%), Graciano (26%) and Garnacha. Appealing aromas of red fruit, spice, cocoa and toasty barrel accents give way to fruit and barrel flavors brightened by tart acidity and supported by lightly grainy tannins. It’s an intriguing blend of these varieties that shows impeccable balance and impressive length. Editor’s Choice

Cadaretta 2015 SBS Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $23 88 points
Sauvignon Blanc makes up a full 89% of this blend. It offers light aromas of melon, grass, tropical fruit and citrus that are followed by tart zingy flavors, with the concentration seeming a bit light.

Cadaretta 2013 Syrah Columbia Valley $35 92 points
Though labeled as a Syrah, this drinks more like a GSM, with 11% Mourvèdre, 5% Grenache and 2% Viognier contributing prominently to the blend. Aromas of cocoa, orange peel, coffee grounds, raspberry and dark fruit are followed by full-bodied fruit and barrel flavors.

Canvasback 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $40 92 points
Coming from a warm vintage in a hot region, this wine brings light aromas of mineral and red and black fruit along with a barrel-spice top note. The black-cherry flavors are lush, full and palate coating, supported by firm tannins. It’s high on the delicious scale.

Charles & Charles 2015 Chardonnay Columbia Valley $12 88 points
Aromas of yellow apple, Bosc pear and melon lead to a textured, flavorful palate and a finish that lingers. It’s a spot-on example of the variety and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best Buy

Charles Smith 2013 Broncho Stoneridge Vineyard Malbec Washington $70 94 points
The aromas are pretty and pure, with perfumed notes of plum and blackberry speckled with spice and herb. The flavors are seamless and full, showing a real sense of freshness and vibrancy capped off by a tart finish that hangs together impressively.

Charles Smith 2013 Royal City Northridge Vineyard Syrah Columbia Valley $140 96 points
The aromas pop, with notes of stargazer lilies, brown stems, green olive and smoked meat, revealing more on each swirl. The fruit and savory flavors are rich and layered, earthshaking in their intensity, with a lengthy finish that only heightens the interest. It’s a complete showstopper. Editor’s Choice

Charles Smith 2014 The Velvet Devil Merlot Washington $12 88 points
This wine opens with just a touch of reduction followed by quite pure aromas of red and blue fruit. The flavors are sweet and fresh, with the tannins bringing a light grip. Best Buy

Charles Smith 2014 Boom Boom! Syrah Washington $12 88 points
The aromas of blue fruit and herb seem light considering the warmth of the vintage. The palate brings a mouthful of fruit flavors, bringing a pleasing sense of freshness. It all seems a bit dialed back. Best Buy

Charles Smith 2014 Chateau Smith Cabernet Sauvignon Washington $20 90 points
Coming from a downright hot vintage, this wine offers quite pure aromas of black currant and black fruit. The palate brings more of the same, giving a very pure unencumbered-by-new-oak look at Washington Cabernet. Lightly grippy-tannins provide support.

Charles Smith 2015 Kung Fu Girl Riesling Ancient Lakes $12 90 points
This is an über-aromatic wine, with appealing notes of white peach, jasmine, honeysuckle and lime. It’s lean in style, drinking off dry but balanced by racy acidity that stretches out the finish. Best Buy

Charles Smith 2014 Eve Chardonnay Washington $12 88 points
Very pretty aromas of freshly cut apple, grape skin and white flowers lead to a palate full of clean, rounded fruit flavors. It’s a spot-on example of the variety that shows no apparent new oak influence. Best Buy

College Cellars 2014 Summit View Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $35 91 points
This wine comes from an up-and-coming region (and vineyard) of the valley. Unique aromas of herb, sage, vanilla, high tone spice and dark fruit are followed by ripe, generous, pitch black fruit flavors. It’s high up on the hedonistic scale.

College Cellars 2015 Viognier Walla Walla Valley $16 87 points
The flower and peach aromas are light but provide plenty of intrigue. It drinks dry with light ale and stone-fruit flavors, showing persistence on the finish.

College Cellars 2014 Clarke Vineyard Petit Verdot Walla Walla Valley $24 91 points
It’s rare to see a varietal bottle of Petit Verdot come out of this appellation, let alone a single vineyard offering but this one clearly deserves it. The aromas of flowers, soil, green herbs and purple fruit are light and brooding and lead to full but in balance black-fruit flavors. A lengthy finish caps it off. Editor’s Choice

College Cellars 2015 Roussanne Walla Walla Valley $16 87 points
The aromas of apricot and other stone fruit are light but pleasing. The palate shows elegance and detail, with ale notes on the finish.

College Cellars 2014 Clarke Vineyard Merlot Walla Walla Valley $22 87 points
Barrel aromas are out front, with notes of char, toast and vanilla along with dark raspberry and spice. The palate presents a mixture of fruit and barrel, with the latter showing a bit too prominently.

College Cellars 2015 Loess Vineyard Riesling Walla Walla Valley $15 86 points
Starting out a touch reduced, this wine shows aromas of lime leaf and peach, wanting a bit more aromatic clarity. It drinks off dry, with lean but plentiful lime and stone-fruit flavors.

College Cellars 2014 Les Collines Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $39 89 points
Coming from a site best known for its Syrah, this wine brings high-toned aromas of violets, herb and dark fruit. The black-fruit flavors are rich yet supple, with fine-grained but occasionally toothy tannins providing support. Mocha flavors linger on the finish. It’s a bit oak heavy but by and large carries it.

Ded.Reckoning 2013 No. 13 Ramseyer Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $45 90 points
This wine shows a classic Yakima Valley profile, with aromas and flavors of orange peel, fresh green herbs and cherry, along with barrel spice accents. It’s made in a restrained style, with tart flavors carrying on the finish.

Delmas 2014 SJR Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $65 94 points
Viognier makes up just over 8% of this wine and it shows itself with perfumed aromas of flowers and orange peel, along with brown stems, freshly ground herb, black olive, mineral and whiffs of smoked meat. The palate is all about texture and layers, while never losing its exquisite sense of balance, gliding on the extended finish. Superb stuff, with an emphasis on elegance.

Double Canyon 2013 Double Canyon Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $65 89 points
Locked-up aromas of wood spice, orange peel, jalapeño and blue and purple fruit are followed by a smooth refined palate. It brings a sense of elegance and restraint.

Double Canyon 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $25 91 points
Wood spice, herb, tangerine peel and blue- and black-fruit aromas are followed by a fresh, flavorful palate. The grip of the tannins makes the variety unmistakable and the balance is spot on.

Dusty Cellars 2014 Malbec Columbia Valley $20 90 points
The aromas draw you into the glass with notes of purple fruit and blueberry bubble gum. The flavors are tart and show a pleasing sense of purity that keeps you coming back for more.

Efeste 2015 Sauvage Boushey Vineyard White Blend Yakima Valley $25 89 points
A blend of Sauvignon Blanc (61%) and Sémillon, with the latter a new addition to this typically varietally designated wine, it opens with aromas of herbs, lemon verbana, white flowers, nut oil and yellow apple. The palate is lean in style, with a lightly creamy feel backed by racy acidity that leads to a white grapefruit, kiwi and pineapple-filled finish.

Efeste 2013 Nana Red Willow Vineyard Red Blend Yakima Valley $44 91 points
Merlot makes up half of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon (40%) and Cabernet Franc. It announces itself with nuanced aromas of herb, dried leaves and flowers, along with black currant. The flavors are palate coating and textured, showing depth but also restraint. Editor’s Choice

Efeste 2013 Upright Klipsun Vineyard Merlot Red Mountain $39 90 points
Aromas of savory herbs, mineral, exotic spice and red fruit are followed by fruit flavors that are surprisingly restrained considering the warmth of the vintage. Tart acidity livens it up. It’s green for the variety but still brings enjoyment.

Efeste 2013 Tough Guy Klipsun Vineyards Red Blend Red Mountain $55 91 points
An equal split of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this wine opens with aromas of high-toned dried and fresh herbs and leaves, with red and black fruit lurking in the background. The palate is chock full of brooding black-fruit flavors, with this vineyard’s often burly tannins there but in check. Still, some cellaring will be rewarded. Best after 2020. Cellar Selection

Efeste 2014 Lola Evergreen Vineyard Chardonnay Ancient Lakes $35 90 points
The aromas of mineral, spice, toast, yellow apple and lemon pith are light but enchanting. The palate is medium bodied and refined, demonstrating judicious use of oak and a lengthy finish that shows some warmth.

Efeste 2013 Final-Final Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah Columbia Valley $30 91 points
The aromas bring a big whack of pungent blue and purple fruit, along with notes of herb and cherry. The flavors are full and palate coating, bringing a real sense of texture and hedonism but still with great freshness.

Efeste 2013 Big Papa Old Block Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $60 92 points
This is the first vintage of this wine to include estate fruit, along with fruit from Klipsun, Bacchus and Red Willow. A complex medley of herb and spice aromas accented by purple flowers is followed by bold yet still refined dark-fruit flavors that linger on the finish. It has the tannin to go the distance. Best after 2020. Cellar Selection

Elephant Seven 2014 River Rock Syrah Walla Walla Valley $35 88 points
Coming from a vineyard down in The Rocks District and at a quite low alcohol level for the state, especially considering the warmth of the vintage, this wine brings aromas of cranberry compote, herb, thistle and mineral. The flavors are light and elegant, almost faint at times, but showing a pleasing purity and a finish that lingers. It piques the interest, with cranberry juice notes lingering on the finish.

Elephant Seven 2014 First and Mercer Grenache Walla Walla Valley $30 86 points
This wine is a blend of Monette’s Vineyard Grenache and River Rock Syrah (15%). The volatiles are amped up, along with aromas of raspberries and herb. The flavors are full and liquorous, showing a fair amount of heat.

Elephant Seven 2014 Yellow Bird Syrah Walla Walla Valley $45 89 points
Cofermented with 6% Viognier, this is a perfumed wine with notes of fresh flowers, orange peel, herb and blue fruit. The elegant blue fruit flavors persist, with abundant floral accents.

Force Majeure 2014 Estate Grown Syrah Red Mountain $70 93 points
Though Viognier only makes up 1% of this wine, it substantially lifts the aromas, which bring notes of wild flowers along with blue and black fruit. The flavors are bold and full bodied, pulling no punches but showing exquisite concentration and length.

Force Majeure 2014 Estate Grown Parvata Red Blend Red Mountain $65 91 points
A new offering from this winery, this wine is a blend of Mourvèdre (40%), Syrah (35%) and Grenache. Aromas of herbs, citrus, black fruit and light barrel accents are followed by rich, black-as-night fruit flavors that show a hedonistic styling.

Gård 2015 Grand Klasse Reserve Rosé Columbia Valley $22 89 points
Pale peach in color, this wine brings aromas of strawberry and orange peel. It drinks dry with a broad textured feel, needing a bit more acidity to stitch it all together but still delivering plenty of enjoyment.

Gård 2014 Don Isidro Lawrence Vineyards Red Blend Columbia Valley $22 89 points
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (47%), Syrah (28%), Merlot (18%) and Malbec. Aromas of vanilla bean, cherry, plum and spice are followed by ripe smooth fruit flavors.

Gård 2014 Grand Klasse Reserve Roussanne Columbia Valley $22 88 points
Aromas of spice, apricot, and Creamsicle are followed by full-bodied fruit and barrel flavors, showing some warmth on the finish.

Gianni Buonomo 2012 Sangiovese Washington $49 85 points
The volatiles are quite amped up here along with abundant barrel spices, such as vanilla and toast. The palate brings sweet jammy slightly dried-out raspberry and cranberry flavors but they have a hard time making up the difference.

Gramercy 2014 The Third Man Grenache Columbia Valley $36 91 points
Light in color, this wine brings initially reserved aromas of raspberry, herb and mineral, along with a light earthiness. The palate is broad and quite pure in style. It shows more flesh than the winery is typically known for but still has no shortage of elegance and balance.

Gramercy 2014 The Deuce Syrah Walla Walla Valley $54 93 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Les Collines, Forgotten Hills and SJR vineyards. It brings brooding but complex aromas of smoked meat, fresh herbs, citrus twist, red and blue fruit and mineral. The violet and red and blue fruit flavors show restraint and elegance, with an emphasis on purity.

Gramercy 2013 Inigo Montoya Tempranillo Columbia Valley $42 90 points
Blended with 10% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 5% Carignan, this wine displays aromas of earth, citrus peel and fresh tobacco that lead to soft, vibrant cherry flavors with light cocoa accents. It’s a very pretty interpretation of the variety, with fine-grained tannins backing it up.

Gramercy 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $50 92 points
Hailing from Phinny Hill, Two Blondes, Bacchus, Dionysus, Octave, Loess, and Old Stones vineyards, this Cabernet Sauvignon prototype brings aromas of fresh herb, dusty earth, cherry and raspberry, displaying an electric sense of purity. The flavors are elegant and layered showing an exquisite sense of oak and tannin integration. Far from a big bruiser, this is a thinking person’s Cabernet that lingers and lingers.

Helix by Reininger 2011 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Sangiovese Columbia Valley $30 86 points
A late release from this cool vintage, this wine offers aromas of cocoa and berry. The flavors are light and restrained, framed by tart acidity.

Helix by Reininger 2011 Merlot Columbia Valley $28 86 points
Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of vanilla and wood spice along with herb. The palate brings tart cherry flavors that taper toward the finish. The variety seems to get lost.

Helix by Reininger 2012 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Merlot Columbia Valley $28 87 points
Aromas of green wood, vanilla and cola are followed by plump fruit flavors. The palate brings appeal but the aromas don’t seem to match up.

J. Bookwalter 2014 Suspense Conner-Lee Vineyard Red Blend Columbia Valley $60 91 points
Merlot makes up just under two-thirds of this wine, with the rest Cabernet Franc. The aromas display a medley of fresh green herbs and flowers and cherry, while the palate brings poised cherry flavors that show elegance and persistence.

J. Bookwalter 2014 Antagonist Elephant Mountain Syrah Yakima Valley $45 91 points
This site is seeing an increasing number of vineyard-designated bottles made from it. This one brings brooding aromas of dark fruit, licorice and spice that lead to full-bodied, almost jammy fruit flavors. It shows a lot of hedonism but retains its impeccable balance.

K Vintners 2013 Klein Syrah Walla Walla Valley $70 94 points
The aromas start out reticent, with notes of black licorice, kirsch, black olive and earth along with some barrel notes. The flavors are bold, full and palate coating, and are capped off by a lengthy finish.

K Vintners 2013 Morrison Lane Syrah Walla Walla Valley $55 94 points
Kirsch, wet stone, lavender and dried herb aromas are followed by ripe jazzy generous dark-fruit flavors. Fine-grained tannins provide support, with a supple mouthfeel piquing the interest.

K Vintners 2014 The Beautiful Syrah Walla Walla Valley $60 93 points
Hailing from River Rock Vineyard in the Rocks District, this wine’s black olive, green stem, potpourri, dark fruit and orange peel aromas are followed by silky feeling fruit and savory flavors. It keeps the interest high.

K Vintners 2013 The Creator Red Blend Walla Walla Valley $55 94 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just under three-quarters of this wine with the balance Syrah. A blend of fruit from River Rock and Jack’s vineyards, it’s aromatically reserved, with notes of flowers, green herb, cherry and moist earth. The tart fruit flavors are silky and full in feel, bringing a lovely sense of presence to the mixture of fruit and savory flavors. The finish lingers.

K Vintners 2013 River Rock Syrah Walla Walla Valley $45 92 points
Somewhat locked up at present, the aromas offer notes of brown stems, crushed flowers, dried earth and green olive, with the fruit lurking in the background. The palate mixes savory and red-fruit flavors that play off each other all the way through the finish, showing a lot of elegance and persistence.

K Vintners 2013 Charlotte Red Blend Walla Walla Valley $60 92 points
Mourvèdre (45%), Grenache (31%) and Syrah (12%) make up the majority of this wine, which is fleshed out with Counoise, Grenache Blanc and Picpoul. Vibrant aromas of cracked pepper, raspberry, underbrush, dried violets, smoked meat and herb are followed by elegant yet still flavorful fruit and savory notes that show a pleasing tartness and generous mouthfeel.

K Vintners 2014 MCK Motor City Kitty Syrah Washington $40 93 points
This aromatically brooding wine brings aromas of brown stems, scorched earth, smoked meat, iron, violets, orange peel and blue and black fruit. The flavors coat the palate from end to end with silky soft, unabashedly appealing fruit and savory notes. It hits the delicious gong hard, with an enduring finish. Editor’s Choice

K Vintners 2013 The Hidden Northridge Vineyard Syrah Wahluke Slope $70 95 points
Aromas of pomegranate, black fruit, herb and barrel spice lead to rich seamless palate-coating dark-fruit flavors. It’s hedonistic but retains a sense of balance along with an unabashed deliciousness.

K Vintners 2013 The Deal Sundance Syrah Walla Walla Valley $40 94 points
Kirsch, brown stem, herb and olive aromas give way to a powerful mouthful of black fruit speckled with savory accents. The finish lingers.

K Vintners 2013 Rock Garden Syrah Walla Walla Valley $60 94 points
Coming off the Rocks District, this wine displays high-toned aromas of brown stems, crushed violets and black pepper along with a light meat and olive streak. The flavors are poised and layered, showing a mixture of red and black fruits with abundant savory accents. The crazy-long finish flat out impresses.

K Vintners 2014 Powerline Viognier Walla Walla Valley $45 88 points
Coming off the winery’s estate vineyard, this wine displays vibrant aromas of toast, honeysuckle and orange peel. The palate is rich and oily in feel, showing a mixture of fruit and barrel, with the latter not quite seeming to have fully integrated.

K Vintners 2013 King Coal Stoneridge Vineyard Red Blend Washington $100 95 points
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) and Syrah, brooding aromas of ground stone, herb, brown stem and black fruit give way to dense layered blackberry flavors. It shows great focus, poise, texture and exquisite length. Best from 2021 to 2027. Cellar Selection

K Vintners 2012 The Hustler Syrah Walla Walla Valley $140 96 points
This is a unicorn wine that only gets made in exceptional years—the last time was a decade ago. Hailing from Morrison Lane, the oldest Syrah plantings in the valley, it brings mesmerizing aromas of blackberry, black fruit, moist earth and wet stone. The black-fruit flavors consume the palate, showing density, depth and exceptional length. It’s a complete heart-stopper.

K Vintners 2014 The Boy Grenache Washington $50 94 points
A blend of fruit from Northridge Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope and Powerline Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley, this pale colored wine delivers vibrant, complex aromas of strawberry, brown stems, fresh flowers, green olive, smoked meat and moist earth. The cranberry and smoked meat flavors are soft and sumptuous, leading to an extended fruit and savory note finish. It’s all about elegance but the purity is dazzling. Editor’s Choice

K Vintners 2013 Cattle King Upland Vineyard Syrah Snipes Mountain $70 94 points
This wine is all about power and hedonism. Brooding dark fruit aromas meld with black licorice and lead to a seamless full-bodied blackberry and black-cherry flavors. It demands another sip.

K Vintners 2013 Guido Jack’s Vineyard Sangiovese Walla Walla Valley $45 93 points
Pale to the point of being Pinot-esque, this wine draws you in with its aromas of earth, cigar box, crushed flowers, herb and sour cherry. The palate is ethereally light and elegant, fully of savory flavors and made in a transparent style. It might be too elegant for some tastes but others will swoon.

Kasia 2014 Syrah Red Mountain $45 89 points
This is the inaugural release from this winery. It opens with aromas of raspberries, herbs and cherries, showing just a touch of volatility. The fruit and barrel flavors are ripe and generous, lingering on the finish.

Kestrel 2015 Falcon Series Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $21 85 points
Light aromas of tropical fruit, apple, melon and spice lead to lightly styled fruit flavors. The concentration doesn’t seem to be all there.

Kestrel 2013 Falcon Series Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $25 89 points
The aromas are all high toned, with notes of coffee, herb and cherry. The elegantly styled flavors are well balanced and carry through on the finish.

Kestrel 2015 Falcon Series Estate Chardonnay Yakima Valley $21 86 points
Light aromas of toast, apple, vanilla and custard are followed by lightly creamy fruit and barrel flavors that provide interest.

Kestrel 2015 Falcon Series Estate Viognier Yakima Valley $21 84 points
The aromas are light, with notes of white flowers, green herbs and peach. The flavors are tart and elegant in style, seeming quite watery in concentration.

Kestrel 2012 Falcon Series Merlot Yakima Valley $25 88 points
Aromas of raspberry and herb intermingle on the nose, which also shows a touch of reduction. The palate offers soft tart fruit flavors that provide appeal.

Kestrel 2012 Falcon Series Estate Syrah Yakima Valley $25 88 points
This wine offers perfumed aromas of clove, blue fruit, orange peel, toast and wild flowers. The flavors show restraint, with fruit and barrel flavors lingering on the finish.

Kestrel NV Lady in Red Edition 12 Red Blend Columbia Valley $NA 87 points
A blend of Merlot, Sangiovese, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine offers aromas of herb, red apple, and cherry. The palate brings sweet but light fruit flavors that show elegance.

Kestrel 2015 Falcon Series Estate Gewürztraminer Yakima Valley $17 85 points
The aromas are surprisingly light for the variety, with notes of rose water and flowers. It drinks off dry, with lightly styled fruit flavors, with the concentration wanting.

Kestrel 2015 Falcon Series Estate Rosé Yakima Valley $17 87 points
A pretty pale peach color, the strawberry aromas are quite light while the flavors are tart and spritely. It piques the interest.

Kestrel 2015 Falcon Series Estate Pinot Grigio Yakima Valley $17 86 points
Light aromas of apple, pear and petroleum jelly are followed by crisp acid-driven flavors. Put it on the dinner table to see it at its best.

Kestrel 2012 Falcon Series Tribute Red Blend Yakima Valley $25 89 points
Malbec and Syrah both make up just under a third of this wine, with the balance Mourvèdre, Sangiovese and Tempranillo. It shows some reduction out of the gate, along with barrel spice, herb and blue and black fruit. The flavors are soft and supple, showing a pleasing sense of balance.

Kestrel 2012 Falcon Series Estate Sangiovese Yakima Valley $25 87 points
Aromas of tire rubber mix with herb, graphite and candied raspberries. The flavors are light and they paint around the edges, with lightly chalky tannins supporting them.

Kevin White 2014 La Fraternité Red Blend Yakima Valley $28 91 points
This wine is a blend of Grenache (60%), Mourvèdre (32%) and Syrah hailing from the Upland, Boushey, and Sugarloaf vineyards. It opens with enticing aromas of citrus peel, smoke and peppery spices, with red and black fruit lurking in the background. It’s full bodied but still remarkably fresh, showing luxurious dark-fruit flavors that linger on the smooth, elegant finish.

Kevin White 2014 En Hommage Syrah Yakima Valley $28 92 points
A blend of fruit from Olsen, Elephant Mountain and Boushey vineyards, this wine is expressive, with aromas of smoke, high-toned herb, dark raspberry, blue fruit and mineral. The flavors are fresh and focused, putting a premium on elegance with a finish that sails.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Semillon Columbia Valley $15 89 points
Blended with 16% Sauvignon Blanc, this wine brings notes of herb, fig and spice. The palate is full and well balanced, showing a touch of warmth on the finish.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Chardonnay Columbia Valley $25 90 points
Coming from a variety of vineyards across the Columbia Valley, this
 enchanting wine displays aromas of spice, corn silk and apple that give way to lightly styled but still well-balanced fruit flavors.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Estate Grown Luminesce Seven Hills Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $22 89 points
Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon share equal parts of this blend. Aromas of corn silk, tropical fruit and herb give way to full-bodied fruit flavors. It shows a hint of warmth on the finish but largely carries it.

Lawrelin 2003 Syrah Columbia Valley $42 90 points
That vintage date is not a typo. This winery held onto this wine for over a decade prior to release. After opening with aromas of leather, vanilla, mushroom and wood spice, the palate brings reserved, well-balanced fruit flavors. Drink now.

Lawrelin 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $48 91 points
A full 13-years-old on release, this wine is in perfect bloom, with tertiary aromas of leather, dried cherry, cocoa and vanilla. The cranberry and cherry flavors are tart and lithe, lingering on the finish. It still has life in front of it but is in a sweet spot.

Love That Red 2014 Dead Heat Syrah Columbia Valley $32 90 points
The aromas are light, with notes of red fruit along with vanilla and other barrel spices. The fruit flavors are ripe and generous, bringing a sense of hedonism.

Love That Red 2014 Stakes Race Syrah Walla Walla Valley $36 88 points
The aromas seem a bit muddled, with notes of red fruit, herbs, vanilla and flowers. The cherry flavors are tart, with a kick of acidity on the finish.

Luke 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Wahluke Slope $25 90 points
Locked up aromas of spice box, vanilla, coconut and dark fruit are followed by sweet, ripe black-currant flavors. It shows a lovely sense of balance.

Milbrandt 2015 Traditions Evergreen Vineyard Riesling Ancient Lakes $13 88 points
Aromas of mineral, flowers and freshly cut green apple are followed by a just off-dry, lightly spritzy palate full of stone-fruit flavors. Best Buy

Milbrandt 2014 Traditions Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $17 88 points
The aromas bring notes of toasty spices, black currant, green pepper and blue fruit. The fruit and smoke flavors are smooth and easy drinking, with lightly grainy tannins providing support. It needs some more time to fully come together.

Milbrandt 2015 Traditions Sweet Katherine White Wine Evergreen Vineyard Riesling Ancient Lakes $13 90 points
Perfumed aromas of lime leaf, white peach, honeysuckle and orange peel are followed by medium-sweet stone-fruit flavors. It goes down far too easy but it’s the balance that most impresses. Best Buy

Milbrandt 2012 Vineyard Series Tempranillo Wahluke Slope $28 89 points
Aromas of butterscotch, spice and red fruit are followed by fleshy fruit flavors. The palate shows a pleasing sense of balance, though the tannins bring a slight grit.

Milbrandt 2015 Traditions Chardonnay Columbia Valley $13 89 points
Aromas of crème brûlée, apple, vanilla and spice lead to broad-feeling fruit flavors speckled with barrel accents. It’s a very pleasing, well-priced offering of the variety. Best Buy

Milbrandt 2012 Vineyard Series Clifton Vineyards Grenache Wahluke Slope $28 88 points
Aromas of vanilla and cocoa mix with red fruit. The fruit flavors are full and palate coating but the oak seems a little too intense at times.

Nine Hats 2015 Riesling Columbia Valley $14 88 points
The aromas are bright, with notes of lime leaf, apricot, citrus peel, flowers and lime. It drinks off dry, with abundant stone-fruit flavors that provide plenty of pleasure.

Nine Hats 2015 The Benches Vineyard Pinot Gris Horse Heaven Hills $14 90 points
It’s rare to see a vineyard-designated bottle of Pinot Gris from the state. This one brings light aromas of apple and pear that are followed by dry fleshy fruit flavors. It hits all the right notes. Best Buy

North by Northwest 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $25 88 points
Appealing aromas of black cherry, cocoa, herb, pencil lead and wood spice are followed by generous pit-fruit flavors. The tannins show some chalkiness and astringency.

North by Northwest 2015 Riesling Horse Heaven Hills $12 88 points
This is a vibrantly aromatic wine, with notes of honeysuckle, lime leaf and peach. The palate drinks dry, with tart acidity and a broad feel, dipping a bit in the middle before coming back together. Best Buy

Oak Knoll 2011 Goose Ridge Vineyard Barbera Columbia Valley $28 84 points
Light aromas of red fruit, game and vanilla are followed by quite tart puckering fruit flavors. It needs food to counteract the screaming acid.

Oak Knoll NV Toasted Cow 5th Edition Red Blend Columbia Valley $20 82 points
The aromas show notes of game, vanilla and grape Jolly Rancher, with the volatiles amped up. The flavors bring a mixture of sweet and tart, tussling through the finish.

Pacific Rim 2015 Twin Vineyards Gewürztraminer Yakima Valley $16 88 points
Vibrant aromas of lychee, white flowers and spice give way to off-dry fruit flavors, with the concentration seeming a bit light. Still, it delivers a lot of appeal.

Pacific Rim 2015 Hahn Hill Vineyard Chenin Blanc Yakima Valley $16 88 points
Coming from the state’s oldest Chenin plantings, this wine brings light aromas and plenty of broad-feeling fruit flavors, resulting in a dry-drinking offering. Pair it with food to see it at its best.

Pacific Rim 2015 Sweet Riesling Columbia Valley $10 88 points
Somewhat subdued aromas of jasmine, herb and orange peel are followed by plentiful medium-sweet stone-fruit flavors. The finish lingers. It delivers a lot of enjoyment. Best Buy

Pacific Rim 2015 J Riesling Columbia Valley $10 89 points
This wine explodes from the glass, with aromas of honeysuckle, mandarin orange, jasmine and lime. It drinks off dry, with generous orange blossom and citrus flavors that linger on the finish.

Pacific Rim 2015 Spring Creek Vineyard Grüner Veltliner Yakima Valley $16 87 points
One of just a handful of varietal bottlings made in the state, this wine offers aromas of white pepper, fresh vegetables and flowers. It drinks dry with elegantly styled fruit flavors.

Pamplin 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $50 93 points
Though not labeled as such, this 100% varietal all hails from Red Mountain, with the fruit coming from Klipsun (64%), Scooteney Flats and Tapteil vineyards. The aromas are brooding and locked up at present with notes of mineral, black currant, spice, pencil lead and blackberry. The fruit flavors are black as night, supported by firm but exceptionally well-integrated tannins. It will be at its best from 2023 to 2031 but should last well beyond that. Cellar Selection

Pamplin 2013 JRG Red Blend Columbia Valley $30 92 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up three-quarters of this blend with the balance Merlot (22%) and Malbec. Coming from a who’s who of vineyards that includes Klipsun, Canoe Ridge, Seven Hills, and Alder Ridge, it displays aromas of toasty spices, graphite, fresh herb and black currant. The dark-fruit flavors are polished to a fine sheen, showing hang time on the finish. It impresses. Editor’s Choice

Proper 2014 Estate Syrah Walla Walla Valley $48 92 points
The aromas jump up, with mesmerizing notes of fresh herbs, green olive, violets, orange peel, smoked meat and huckleberry. The palate shows a light but pillowy texture alongside flavors that carry on the finish. It’s all about subtlety.

Reininger 2012 Merlot Walla Walla Valley $43 91 points
A blend of fruit from Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills vineyards, this wine opens with aromas of vanilla, wood spice, cream, red apple and fruit. The palate brings elegantly styled, tart fruit flavors that linger on the finish. The balance is impeccable.

Reininger 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $47 88 points
This 100% varietal wine is a blend of fruit from Pepper Bridge and XL vineyards. It offers intriguing aromas of sandalwood, rose petal, wood spice and black currant, with the oak a bit out front. The dark-fruit flavors are reserved in style, tapering toward the finish.

Rôtie Cellars 2015 Grenache Blanc Washington $32 88 points
This is an up-and-coming variety for the state. High-toned aromas of lime leaf and citrus are followed by a lean, almost faint but still but well-balanced palate with a thread of acidity running through it. Pair it with food to see it at its best.

Rôtie Cellars 2014 Northern Blend Syrah Washington $48 94 points
Cofermented with 5% Viognier, this perfumed wine brings aromas of green olive, stems, potpourri, blue fruit and moist earth. The palate is chock-full of layered boysenberry and earth flavors, earthshaking in their intensity, with a mouthfeel that only heightens the interest. Editor’s Choice

Rôtie Cellars 2015 Southern White Blend Washington $32 91 points
A blend of Viognier (60%), Marsanne (25%) and Roussanne, this wine displays fragrant aromas of white flowers, orange peel, almond and citrus. The palate shows an elegant styling along with absolutely impeccable balance that keeps the interest high. Orange peel notes linger on the finish. Editor’s Choice

Rôtie Cellars 2014 Southern Blend Washington $48 93 points
Grenache (70%) takes the lead on this blend followed by Mourvèdre (25%) and Syrah. The aromas draw you into the glass with notes of high-toned lightly green herbs, rose hips and raspberries. The ripe red-fruit flavors display a dazzling sense of purity, drinking like a bowl of fresh fruit, with a sprinkling of herbs and spices mixed in. The balance and texture are impressive. Editor’s Choice

Rôtie Cellars 2015 Northern White Marsanne Washington $32 89 points
This wine starts out a touch reduced before opening to reveal light aromas of almond, marzipan and spice. The palate puts a premium on elegance, with the concentration at times seeming a bit light but with the balance still there and a lingering finish.

Silvara 2014 Malbec Walla Walla Valley $42 89 points
The oak is at the fore initially, with aromas of toast, char and exotic spice out in front of green herbs and purple fruit that become more prominent over time. The fruit flavors are sweet and sappy, with abundant toasty and vanilla accents throughout. It delivers enjoyment, but fruit and barrel seem to tussle a bit at times.

Silvara 2013 Meritage Columbia Valley $42 91 points
A blend of fruit from top sites DuBrul, Kiona, Dionysus, Echo Ridge and Weinbau, this wine shows subdued aromas of coffee, herb and cherry. The cranberry and cherry flavors are well proportioned, bringing a pleasing mouthfeel and a tart finish.

Silvara 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $32 89 points
All varietal coming from Candy Mountain Vineyard, the aromas of dark-roasted coffee bean, herb, vanilla and dark cherry provide appeal. Fruit and barrel flavors intertwine on the palate, tapering toward the finish.

Sleight of Hand 2014 The Sorceress Grenache Columbia Valley $60 92 points
This wine, which is 100% varietal, is a blend from the Upland, Stoney Vine and French Creek vineyards. Fermented using 75% whole cluster and seeing just 15% new oak, the emphasis is on freshness and purity. It displays aromas of stems, white pepper, earth, funk and black olive, with the Stoney Vine influence winning out. The earthy and savory palate-coating flavors heighten the interest, with fruit and savory notes sailing on the finish. There are lots of good things going on but it needs time to come together. Best after 2019.

Sleight of Hand 2014 The Psychedelic Stoney Vine Estate Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $60 92 points
Coming off The Rocks District, this wine displays somewhat reserved notes of ember, smoked meat, green olive, wet stone and smoke, leaning hard into the savory. The charcuterie, smoke and licorice flavors coat the palate, stretching out on the finish.

Sleight of Hand 2014 Levitation Syrah Columbia Valley $45 92 points
A blend of fruit from Lewis Vineyard, Les Collines and Stoney Vine, this wine offers aromas of cherry, blackberry, earth, licorice, smoked meat, violets and herb. The flavors are dense are pure, bringing a pleasing mouthfeel and a long cherry-filled finish.

Substance 2013 Super Substance Cs Jack’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $55 92 points
Coming from a vineyard in The Rocks, this wine opens with aromas of savory herbs and moist earth, with flower petal and piercing cherry notes lurking the background. The palate is velvety in feel, putting a focus on elegance. It shows plenty of hang time on the finish.

Substance 2013 Super Substance Me Northridge Vineyard Merlot Wahluke Slope $55 93 points
Brooding aromas of blackberry seed, black currant and licorice are followed by a full-bodied palate, with a tight core of dark-fruit flavors supported by fine-grained tannins. It’s near irresistible, showing impeccable styling. Editor’s Choice

Substance 2014 Super Substance Sb Sauvignon Blanc Washington $20 89 points
Hailing from Sunset Vineyard in the Ancient Lakes appellation, this wine starts out aromatically quiet, with notes of green apple, toasted Grape-Nuts and herb. The palate is sleek and lightly creamy, lingering on the finish.

Substance 2013 Super Substance Me Stoneridge Vineyard Merlot Columbia Valley $45 93 points
There’s no question about the variety, with its jazzy aromas of raspberries, blackberries and graphite that lead to plump plush layered fruit flavors. It brings an unabashed sense of deliciousness, with a finish that won’t quit. Editor’s Choice

Substance 2013 Super Substance Bx Klein Vineyard Bordeaux-style Red Blend Walla Walla Valley $75 94 points
This wine is a blend of 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc. It brings heady aromas of blackberry, black cherry, earth, herb and coffee followed by dense palate-coating dark-fruit flavors. The hedonism is dialed up and the finish won’t quit. The balance is absolutely impeccable. Best from 2022 to 2030. Cellar Selection

Substance 2014 Cs Cabernet Sauvignon Washington $17 90 points
This 100% varietal wine from Goose Ridge and Frenchman Hills vineyards provides immediate appeal, with fresh aromas of blackberry, black currant and licorice. The flavors are full and don’t hold back, with firm lightly grainy tannins providing support. It still needs some time to stretch it legs. Give it an hour decant or wait until after 2017.

Substance 2013 Super Substance Cs Stoneridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $55 93 points
Being 100% varietal, the aromas of black currant, boysenberry, graphite and cherry are piercing and pure. The palate puts and emphasis on texture, showing layers of lightly jammy dark fruit flavors that pique the interest, with a long finish only upping the enjoyment.

Syncline 2015 Grüner Veltliner Washington $20 88 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from the Columbia Gorge and Terrace Heights. White pepper, green vegetable and flower blossom aromas lead to light, dry, puckering fruit flavors. Put it on the dinner table to see it shine.

Syncline 2014 Carignan-Grenache Horse Heaven Hills $30 89 points
Carignan (70%) takes the lead on this one-of-a-kind-in-the-state wine. It offers aromas of bramble, assorted vegetables and piercing purple fruit. The flavors are light and elegant, fresh and pure, trailing toward the finish.

Syncline 2014 Cuvée Elena Red Blend Columbia Valley $45 92 points
The winery’s flagship offering, this wine is a blend of 60% Mourvèdre, 30% Grenache and 10% Syrah. It conjures up aromas of high-toned herbs, potpourri and the purest of cherry notes. The flavors coat the palate, showing a hypnotic sense of purity along with an impressive mouthfeel.

Syncline 2015 Subduction Red Blend Columbia Valley $22 92 points
Syrah makes up just over half of this wine, with the balance Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault, Carignan and Counoise. Perfumed aromas of fresh blue and purple fruit, spice and herb lead to achingly pure fruit flavors that persist effortlessly on the finish. It’s a one wine charm offensive with a heart-stopping mouthfeel. Editor’s Choice

Syncline 2014 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Syrah Red Mountain $50 92 points
The aromas draw you into the glass, with brooding notes of purple fruit, mineral and baking spice. The cherry flavors are full in feel, showing impressive purity and depth. There’s no trace of new oak in sight.

Syncline 2014 Mourvèdre Columbia Valley $35 92 points
With 10% Syrah blended in, this wine offers high-toned notes of herb, kirsch, crushed flowers and cherry, bringing a wild element along with it. The black cherry flavors are pure and vivid, showing a sense of purity that captures the attention, with a lengthy finish that kicks it up a notch.

Syncline 2015 Boushey Vineyard Grenache Blanc Yakima Valley $30 90 points
Bottlings of this variety remain an extreme rarity but it’s showing a lot of promise in the state. This wine has aromas of wet stone and star fruit that are followed by a full feeling yet still elegant palate that displays a textured mouthfeel and a lingering finish.

Syncline 2014 Boushey Vineyard Syrah Yakima Valley $45 92 points
Coming from one of the state’s premier Syrah vineyards, this wine shows a downright mesmerizing sense of purity with its aromas of purple fruit, herb, fresh flower, earth and iron. The flavors dazzle but win with elegance and sophistication along with a drawn-out finish.

Telaya 2014 Boushey Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $35 88 points
Coming from a site best known for its Syrah, this wine offers aromas of berry compote, funk and potpourri. The palate shows a pleasing sense of purity, with lightly astringent tannins providing a bit of distraction.

Vino 2015 Rosso Red Blend Washington $12 89 points
This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) and Sangiovese pops with fruit-forward aromas of blue fruit, red currant and herb. It packs a mouthful of elegant, somewhat angular, fresh fruit flavors, bringing a whole lot of appeal and tapering slightly toward the finish. Best Buy

Vino 2015 Moscato Washington $12 86 points
Aromas of flowers and dried orange peel rise up from the glass, with the notes not seeming entirely fresh. It drinks medium sweet with abundant mandarin orange flavors that show a slight spritz.

Vino 2015 Rosé Sangiovese Washington $12 86 points
A very pretty pale salmon color, cherry and spice aromas are followed by light, tart, dry, mouthwatering fruit flavors. The concentration seems light but there’s still much to enjoy.

Vino 2014 Pinot Grigio Washington $12 87 points
Quite light aromas of apple and flower blossom are followed by sleek fruit flavors. The concentration seems a bit light. Best Buy

Wondrous 2013 Red I.Q. Red Blend Columbia Valley $14 91 points
This Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot dominant blend comes from some top quality vineyards that seldom see at a wine at this price, including Seven Hills, Canoe Ridge, Wallula, Tapteil and Champoux. Aromas of herb, berry, cherry and toasty spices give way to clearly high-quality fruit that has seen a lot of love and care. It’s a big time winner at this price. Best Buy

Woodinville Wine Cellars 2013 Indomitable Red Blend Columbia Valley $50 90 points
The winery’s flagship offering, this wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (62%), Cabernet Franc (25%) and Malbec. It opens with high-toned aromas of herbs and dark coffee that are followed by plush fruit flavors that taper toward the finish.

Woodinville Wine Cellars 2013 Double Vision Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah Columbia Valley $50 92 points
This wine is an equal split of these two varieties. Aromas of pencil shavings, red and black fruit, wood spice and green herbs are followed by jammy, full-bodied fruit flavors that don’t hold back. A lengthy finish caps it off.

Zero One Vintners 2013 The Wild Sky Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $36 90 points
Aromas of vanilla, coffee, coconut and wood spice lead to full-bodied cherry, chocolate and vanilla flavors. Fruit and barrel flavors linger on the finish. The wood shows prominently but it largely works.