2015 is the third in what I refer to as Washington’s ‘staircase vintages’ from 2013-2015, where each growing season was a step up in heat accumulation from the previous one (read a recent post comparing these three vintages here).

As I wrote in the Wine Enthusiast’s October Buying Guide introduction, while most growers and winemakers seemed to manage the heat well the previous two years, 2015 appeared to provide more significant challenges, at least tasting the resulting wines.

The issues I’ve seen in 2015 Washington red wines are varied. Some show fruit that seems underripe and, at times, even surprisingly herbaceous for such a hot vintage. Other wines show considerably overripe aromas and flavors where, at its worst, the fruit even seems slightly desiccated. Other wines are pitch perfect.

Tasting these wines, as always, I have looked for commonalities to the struggles and successes of the vintage. They have been difficult to discern. Certainly Merlot, which is an early ripening variety, seemed particularly hard hit by the heat. Then again, there were some high quality examples produced. Hotter regions, such as Red Mountain, also seemed more affected by the warmth of the vintage. But again, many quality wines were made from this appellation in 2015.

What I am most struck by in 2015 is how difficult the vintage is to decipher, with a lack of consistency within and between producers – a rarity of Washington – one of the hallmarks of the vintage.

Overall, to my palate, 2015 is the least consistent vintage I have seen since I started formally reviewing Washington wines back in 2005. Some wineries that generally make consistently high-quality wines had some misses, at times significant ones. Other wines were just good when they are normally excellent or were excellent when they are typically exceptional. Other wines were as good as any I have tasted from the state.

What made Washington’s 2015 wines so mixed? No doubt it was the heat and how it was managed. To give a sense of how hot it was in 2015, let’s look at Growing Degree Days, a measure of heat accumulation during the growing season, for Red Mountain, typically one of Washington’s warmest appellations, using data taken from Washington State University’s AgWeatherNet:

If 2012 was close to 20-year historical averages, 2013 at ~200 more GDDs was one of the warmer vintages on record in terms of heat accumulation. 2014 was 390 GDDs warmer than that. 2015 was nearly 300 GDDs warmer than that.

For perspective, world wine regions with similar heat accumulation to Red Mountain’s 2015 vintage would be Catalunya, Spain (3845); and Alentejo, Portugal (3874) (numbers from Wikipedia listing of Winkler Index). This is all to say, Red Mountain’s 3873 in 2015 was quite hot.

While this is, again, one of the state’s warmest growing regions and therefore a somewhat extreme example, it was hot all over the Columbia Valley in 2015. And as the Growing Degree Day chart shown here shows, the heat just kept on coming. Whereas in many vintages heat accumulation levels off in October, in 2015 it just kept going upwards (of course, most of the fruit was picked well before the October end point). As noted in a previous article, heat accumulation is by no means the entire story of a vintage. Rather, it is when and how that heat was accumulated. But by any measure, 2015 was a hot vintage.

What effect did the warm temperatures have on the growing season? First, it accelerated markers, such as bud break, bloom, and veraison by as much as several weeks. As a result, harvest was also significantly advanced. To demonstrate this, let’s look at a snapshot of harvest dates for a single variety, Cabernet Sauvignon, from one winery based on their published technical sheet data for one of their wines.

So, in this example – and it’s only one example –  this winery’s Cabernet Sauvignon for this particular wine was picked a full month earlier in 2015 than the already warm 2013 and 2014 vintages. It was also at a full degree higher Brix than the previous year (Brix is a measure of sugar accumulation). This is most likely after already having carried a higher crop load to try and slow down the vintage.

In bygone days, harvesting before Labor Day was unusual in Washington. In 2015, growers were harvesting in mid-August (read a harvest report on the vintage here). One winery reported having a quarter of its fruit harvested by the end of the first week of September. Cabernet was in cases being harvested in mid-September instead of mid to late October. Some wineries were done with harvest in the third week of September, whereas normally the majority of their fruit came in in October.

To me, the pick dates listed above demonstrate the challenges winemakers faced trying to navigate the extremely warm temperatures of 2015. Pick too soon, and the fruit might not be fully ripened and could come off as green and the tannins underripe. Wait for additional flavor development and softer tannins and the fruit might get overripe, lose acidity, and potentially even come off as dried out. Tasting the wines, it appears to have been challenging to thread the needle, though many managed to do it. Several winemakers told me that window to get the picking decision right in 2015 was very, very small.

Winemakers also didn’t get the type of extended October hang time many rely on for additional flavor development and ripening tannins for varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon. Seemingly as a result, to me, a number of the Cabernets in particular from the 2015 vintage show firm, occasionally dry, and at times even aggressive tannins. This effect was not quite as pronounced as it was in 2009 when an October 10/11 frost put a punctuation mark on that hot growing season. However, the tannins on a number of 2015 vintage wines do show some similarities to those in 2009 to my palate.

As I wrote in the October Buying Guide, the challenges in Washington in 2015 are by no means a reason to step away from the wines. While I am critical of the vintage, this is not to say that there were not plenty of very good – and even some great – wines produced.

To wit, I rated a Cabernet Sauvignon at 96 points, the highest score I have given for a wine made from this variety during my five years at Wine Enthusiast. I rated another wine 97 points, matching the highest score I have given at the magazine. However, these wines and others like them were more the exception than the rule.

There were, as always, a great many high quality wines produced in Washington in 2015. Case in point, I have thus far rated over 200 Washington red wines from this vintage 90 points or above. However, only 31% of the wines I sampled received those ratings. In 2014, by comparison, that percentage was 41.

Bottom line, there is quality to be had in 2015 but, to me, it is a vintage to be a bit more discriminating when it comes to the state’s offerings.

How will the 2015 wines age compared to other recent vintages in Washington? As noted in a recent article, there is disagreement, with some believing that the 2015s will be the longest lived of the three warm vintages from 2013-2015 and others picking other vintages.

Part of the argument around the potential longevity of the 2015s centers around the tannic structure of these wines, but here is where I grow hesitant about the long-term prospects of the vintage. To me, the wine quality was just not as high in 2015 as it is most years in Washington. Yes, the abundance of tannins will help many of the wines age longer. But are these wines, some of which were unremarkable on release, truly going to get markedly better in bottle? Will those firm, sometimes dry tannins sufficiently soften? Will the wines show additional aromatic complexity?

In a vintage like 2010, one of my favorites from Washington in the last 20 years, it was clear on release that the wines had great stuffing but needed time in bottle to be fully appreciated. Perhaps additional bottle age will help more of the 2015 wines develop and show better. Time will tell, but I have my doubts.

It is always challenging to speak in generalities about a vintage, especially with a growing region as diverse as Washington with such an abundance of varieties planted. To me, it’s always more useful to bore into specifics. To that end, below is a listing of 600 published Washington red wine reviews from Wine Enthusiast through November 2018 (as well as some from the Oregon side of the Walla Walla Valley as noted) from the 2015 vintage. Wines are listed alphabetically by producer and, as always, were tasted blind in varietal/style sets.

* * *

:Nota Bene 2015 Cabernet Franc Dineen Vineyard Yakima Valley $25 87 points
You have to lean into the glass to try and get at the aromas, with green herb notes starting to emerge over time. The dark cherry flavors are more giving, though not quite holding across the palate. Firm, not fully ripened tannins back it all up along with tart acidity.

:Nota Bene 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Heart of the Hill Vineyard Red Mountain $40 88 points
The aromas suggest notes of cocoa, vanilla, graphite, dill and dark berry, with the oak out front. The palate is reserved in style, showing a pleasing sense of balance to the dark fruit flavors, with plentiful vanilla accents. The oak juts out a bit on an otherwise quite enjoyable offering.

:Nota Bene 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Dineen Vineyard Yakima Valley $35 87 points
Aromas of blackberry jam and fruit rollup are followed by ripe dark fruit flavors, with the warmth of the vintage on display. The tannins bring a lightly tacky feel.

:Nota Bene 2015 Merlot Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain $35 87 points
The aromas are light and difficult to get at while the palate brings dark fruit flavors that are reserved in style, tapering on the finish. It doesn’t all seem to come together.

:Nota Bene 2015 Mourvèdre Heart of the Hill Vineyard Red Mountain $30 87 points
Blackberry and black pepper aromas are followed by ripe but somewhat lighter styled fruit flavors that taper toward the cranberry filled finish. There are some interesting things going on but they don’t all come together.

:Nota Bene 2015 Syrah Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain $40 88 points
Brooding aromas of blackberry, orange peel and spice lead to quite ripe, full bodied fruit flavors with a slightly tacky feel. There are good things going on if the feel evens out.

:Nota Bene 2015 Syrah Stone Tree Vineyard Wahluke Slope $35 87 points
Blended with 5% Viognier, which shows itself, generous aromas of fresh orange peel, flower and boysenberry are followed by ripe, full bodied fruit flavors. The tannins bring a gritty feel and some bitterness too on an otherwise enjoyable offering.

:Nota Bene 2015 Arianses Vineyard Wahluke Slope $30 87 points
Merlot makes up 40% of this wine, with the rest equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Aromas of garden herb, soil, violet and cherry lead to medium bodied fruit flavors that run straight down the middle, missing on the edges, with slightly gritty tannins throughout.

:Nota Bene 2015 Una Notte Columbia Valley $30 87 points
Grenache (77%) from StoneTree Vineyard makes up the majority of this wine, with the balance Syrah and Mourvèdre. Dried orange peel and flower aromas are at the fore, with the lighter styled palate showing more of the same. There’s a scrapey feel to the wine that seems distracting.

:Nota Bene 2015 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain $40 86 points
Merlot and Cabernet Franc each make up 40% of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon. Clove, vanilla and raspberry roll up aromas are followed by slightly dried out seeming fruit flavors. The tannins bring an astringent squeeze.

14 Hands 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $12 88 points
The aromas of barrel spice, toast, herb and plum are reticent on first pour. On the palate, sweet fruit flavors are supported by lightly grainy tannins. It’s straight down the fairway. Best Buy

14 Hands 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon The Reserve Horse Heaven Hills $30 86 points
The aromas bring notes of vanilla, herb, tire rubber and dark fruit. The cherry flavors are sweet and plump, backed by soft tannins. The oak plays a prominent part in the show.

14 Hands 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $12 86 points
Wood, sweet spice and plum aromas are out front in this wine. The palate is broad, with abundant plum flavors and astringent tannins. Baking spice notes linger on the finish. It’s not obviously Merlot, but there’s enjoyment to be had.

14 Hands 2015 Red Blend Stampede Bold Columbia Valley $12 86 points
The aromas bring notes of orange zest, vanilla, pepper, oak spice and red cherry. The red-fruit flavors are light and soft in feel, delivering appeal.

14 Hands 2015 Red Blend Hot to Trot Columbia Valley $10 84 points
Aromas of blueberry pie, tire rubber and flower lead to medium-sweet-seeming fruit flavors with a grip of tannin. It doesn’t all come together.

14 Hands 2015 Limited Release Kentucky Derby Columbia Valley $12 86 points
Lighter in color, the aromas offer notes of toasty spice, berry, green pepper and tire rubber. The red and blue-fruit flavors are sweet with a tangy finish.

51 Weeks 2015 Petit Verdot Fourgon Columbia Valley $33 87 points
This wine shows high-toned aromas of herbs and flowers. On the palate, the cherry flavors are light but pleasing with a tart finish. While typical of the variety, it doesn’t stand up on its own but has a place at the dinner table.

Abeja 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $45 88 points
This wine’s plum, black raspberry and spice aromas are followed by light fruit flavors speckled with vanilla accents. The tannins bring a light grip, with lingering barrel notes.

Airfield Estates 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Yakima Valley $30 88 points
Aromas of tire rubber, green pepper, blackberry and sweet barrel spice are followed by ripe fruit flavors that finish a bitter touch. The tannins dry out the finish.

Airfield Estates 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $18 88 points
Aromas of cocoa, coffee, herb and cherry are followed by somewhat lightly styled plum and dark-fruit flavors. It pulls up a bit short on the finish and the tannins are a touch dry.

Airfield Estates 2015 Malbec Yakima Valley $35 87 points
Aromas of sweet herb, cherry and barrel spice are followed by pitch-black-fruit flavors that work around the edges, with a tart citrus filled finish that falls a bit short. The tannins bring a bit of grit.

Airfield Estates 2015 Red Blend Spitfire Yakima Valley $30 88 points
Sangiovese (61%) takes the lead on this blend, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (29%) and Merlot. The aromas are light, with notes of smoke, herb, plum and cigar box. The palate shows more generosity, with plentiful red fruit and herb flavors backed by firm tannins. The finish comes up a bit short.

Airfield Estates 2015 Red Blend Hellcat Yakima Valley $28 87 points
This wine is a blend of Tempranillo (81%) and Syrah. Aromas of pencil eraser, cherry, sweet herb and spice are followed by a tight core of fruit flavors with a smoky finish. Firm, lightly grainy tannins provide support.

Airfield Estates 2015 Red Blend Bombshell Red Vineyard Salute Yakima Valley $18 86 points
Merlot and Syrah both make up 39% of this blend, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon (13%), Cabernet Franc (7%) and Petit Verdot. Aromas of vanilla, coconut, herb, cedar and cherry lead to lighter-styled fruit flavors, with blueberry notes on the finish. The tannins bright a slight grittiness, and the oak seems a little intense.

Airfield Estates 2015 Yakima Valley $18 87 points
Principally Cabernet Sauvignon (57%) and Merlot (33%) it is finished off with Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. In this red cocoa, cherry, herb, flower and tire-rubber aromas are followed by soft plump-feeling fruit flavors. The tannins bring a slightly gritty feel.

Airfield Estates 2015 H. Lloyd Miller Founders Series Yakima Valley $50 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 66% of this wine, with the balance 23% Merlot along with smidgens of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. The aromas bring notes of roasted green pepper, raspberry, clove and cherry, leaning into the green. The dry lighter-styled palate shows more of the same, along with a quite smoky finish. The tannins bring some astringency.

Airfield Estates 2015 Dauntless Yakima Valley $18 87 points
Merlot makes up over two-thirds of this blend, with the balance in Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Baking spice, vanilla and plum aromas are at the fore. The tannins seem bunched up, however, and it lacks the generous fruit associated with the warm vintage.

Alleromb 2015 Grenache Corfu Crossing Vineyard Columbia Valley $65 90 points
This wine hails from a vineyard on the Royal Slope. Light in color, the aromas are light and elusive, with notes of cigar box, white pepper and spice. The palate is transparent in style, with elegant strawberry flavors. One wants more aromatically, but the palate delivers.

Alleromb 2015 Syrah Scarline Vineyard Columbia Valley $65 88 points
High-toned aromas of cherry and spice are followed by surprisingly elegant fruit flavors given the listed alcohol level. It trails off on the finish.

Alleromb 2015 Cuvée B Columbia Valley $40 88 points
This is a blend of 53% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec. Somewhat lighter in color, the aromas show notes of wet penny, raspberry, wheat, herb stalk, cherry and spice. The flavors are light but juicy, tapering on the finish.

Aluvé 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Menozzi Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $52 87 points
Oak aromas are at the fore, with notes of vanilla and baking spice taking over, along with a light meaty note. The palate shows more of the same, with lighter-styled cranberry flavors working to get to the surface. The fruit seems overmatched for the oak.

Amavi 2015 Syrah Walla Walla Valley $33 90 points
This is a pan-Walla Walla Valley blend, with fruit coming from Seven Hills, Les Collines, Pepper Bridge, Summit View and Stone Valley vineyards. The aromas are brooding, with notes of dried herb, earth, blackberry, blueberry and flower revealing themselves over time. The flavors are dense and rich, backed by a squeeze of grainy tannins.

Amavi 2015 Syrah Les Collines Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $47 89 points
This wine’s aromas are quite light, with high-toned herb and flower notes and plum and black licorice accents. The flavors are also light, trailing on the finish. An atypical showing for a vineyard that’s normally quite expressive.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown Diplomat Red Mountain $40 85 points
This wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (83%), along with pinches of Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Aromas of medicine cabinet, dried cherry and spice are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors, with medicine-cabinet notes on the finish. It doesn’t all come together.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Grenache Estate Grown Red Mountain $44 87 points
Lighter in color, aromas of vanilla extract, green wood, baking spice, herb and raspberry are followed by light-bodied fruit flavors. The concentration doesn’t all seem there, and the wood is quite intense.

Ambassador Vineyard 2015 Syrah Estate Grown Red Mountain $32 86 points
Aromas of cigar box, roasted coffee bean, vanilla and spice are followed by lighter-styled fruit and barrel flavors, with the latter winning out on the finish. The barrel influence is very intense.

Andrew Januik 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Stone Cairn Red Mountain $40 91 points
The aromas bring notes of black raspberry, cocoa, cherry, vanilla, anise and exotic barrel spice. Supple, reserved fruit flavors with firm tannins follow.

Andrew Januik 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Lady Hawk Horse Heaven Hills $50 90 points
Dried and fresh herb, cocoa, cherry, graphite and flower aromas are followed by exquisitely balanced cherry and herb flavors. An extended vanilla-filled finish caps it off. It’s a very pretty wine that shows the variety’s more herbal side.

Andrew Januik 2015 Los Molinos Columbia Valley $60 87 points
A new offering from the winery, this is a blend of 75% Grenache, 16% Mourvèdre and 9% Syrah. The aromas bring notes of orange peel, black pepper and cherry. The dark-fruit flavors are full bodied. The blend seems a bit hard to find.

Angel Vine 2015 Red Blend The Cluster Fus Columbia Valley $28 91 points
This wine is 80% Mourvèdre, 11% Zinfandel and 9% Primitivo. The aromas are bright and fresh, with notes of raspberry, red plum and spice. The flavors are pure and tart, bringing a real sense of vibrancy to the core cranberry flavor. Editor’s Choice

Apex 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Red Mountain $35 88 points
This wine’s jammy red and black fruit aromas lead to soft, ample fruit flavors. Lightly grainy tannins provide support.

Arbor Crest 2015 Cabernet Franc Conner Lee Vineyard Columbia Valley $32 85 points
This wine’s game, baking spice and Band Aid aromas are followed by cherry and medicine cabinet flavors. It doesn’t all come together.

Arbor Crest 2015 Malbec Farrington Columbia Valley $45 83 points
Vanilla, baking spice, game, dried cherry, Band Aid and medicine cabinet aromas are at the fore in this wine. Light fruit and medicinal flavors follow. It doesn’t come together.

Arbor Crest 2015 Merlot Four Vineyards Columbia Valley $25 86 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Conner Lee (42%), Dionysus (33%), Bacchus (21%) and Stillwater Creek vineyards. Its medicine cabinet, dried cherry, pencil lead and woodspice aromas lead to fruit leather flavors. It seems dried out.

Arbor Crest 2015 Dionysus Columbia Valley $50 88 points
In this blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 4% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot, well-defined plum, baking spice, cedar, raspberry and anise aromas lead to somewhat light, tart, cranberry flavors. It has fine acidity.

Ardor 2015 Grenache Stoney Vine Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $60 90 points
Very light in color, this wine brings appealing aromas of white pepper, smoked meat, orange peel, herb, earth and sauvage. The palate is ethereally light and delicate, showing pleasing nuances, with plenty of floral flavors on the finish.

Ardor 2015 Syrah Quaternarium Reserve Columbia Valley $70 93 points
This wine is a blend of equal parts Art Den Hoed, Lawrence, Red Heaven and Stoney Vine vineyard fruit, with the latter stealing the show. The aromas pop, with notes of grilled asparagus, black and green olive, ember, wet rock and moist earth. The palate is chock-full of earth, smoked meat and other savory flavors that bring a textured feel and linger on the finish.

Ardor 2015 Syrah Stoney Vine Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $50 91 points
Fermented 40% whole cluster and aged in four-year-old 500L puncheons, bright aromas of fresh asparagus, herb, flower, ember and earth are followed by a blend of fruit and savory flavors. It provides an appealing texture that keeps the interest high.

Ardor 2015 Syrah Lawrence Vineyard Columbia Valley $50 91 points
This wine opens with brooding aromas of green olives, capers and smoked meat, along with an herbal lift. The flavors show concentration and richness, mixing fruit, herb and savory flavors in equal parts. It finishes a tad warm.

Ardor 2015 Syrah Red Heaven Vineyard Red Mountain $50 91 points
Aromas of boysenberry, huckleberry and spice are followed by seamless and polished blue and black-fruit flavors. It delivers a lot of appeal, showing some warmth on the finish.

Ardor 2015 Syrah Art Den Hoed Vineyard Yakima Valley $50 89 points
Aromas of sea salt, olive brine, smoked meat, herb and earth lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors that run warm on the finish. There are plenty of good things going on but they don’t seem to entirely come together.

Aubichon Cellars 2015 Grenache Reserve The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater $45 91 points
Light in color, this offers alluring peat, white pepper, herb, earth and raspberry aromas. It dances on the palate, showing elegance and sophistication and bringingplenty of intrigue.

Auclair 2015 Right Blend Artz Vineyard Red Mountain $38 88 points
This wine is two-thirds Merlot, with the balance Cabernet Franc. The aromas bring notes of golden raisin box, cedar, anise, mineral and cherry, seeming a bit dried out. The palate offers a fine sense of structure.

Auclair 2015 Left Blend Artz Vineyard Red Mountain $48 88 points
Three-quarters Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Cabernet Franc (19%) and Merlot, aromas of plum, dried cherry, smoke, golden raisin and dried herb lead to slightly sweet-seeming fruit flavors backed by highly structured acid and tannins. There are lots of good things going on but the fruit seems ever so slightly desiccated.

Auclair 2015 96 Cedars Red Mountain $NA 88 points
This blend of Cabernet Franc (34%), Cabernet Sauvignon (33%), Merlot (28%) and Petit Verdot was aged in 10% new French oak. Its vibrant anise aromas precede a unique profile of golden raisin, plum and spice. It shows lovely balance and finishes tart.

Avennia 2015 Syrah Arnaut Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $50 93 points
Coming from one of the state’s premier Syrah vineyards, brooding aromas of dried herb, iron, earth and boysenberry lead to a densely saturated palate. There’s no doubt it comes from a warm vintage but it still shows pleasing complexities that reveal themselves over time.

Avennia 2015 Syrah Le Corbeau Discovery Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $50 93 points
Aged in neutral French oak, this wine puts a premium on purity of expression. The aromas are distinctive in intriguing notes of crushed flower, blackberry and sage, along with whiffs of mountain berry and meat. The flavors show depth and intensity, with a swoon-worthy feel and a finish that sails. Editor’s Choice

Avennia 2015 Sestina Columbia Valley $65 93 points
This delicious blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc hails from Red Willow, Dionysus and Bacchus vineyards. It’s locked-up on first pour, opening to reveal bittersweet chocolate, graphite, raspberry, blackberry and dried herb notes. The palate is soft and smooth yet dense, showing sophistication, structure and impressive length. Best from 2023–2029. Cellar Selection

Avennia 2015 Valery Columbia Valley $50 92 points
This blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc from Boushey and Champoux vineyards is bouyantly aromatic, with dark raspberry, leafy herb, cocoa powder and incense notes. On the palate, it’s flavorful yet light-footed and exquisitely balanced. Thoroughly captivating. Editor’s Choice

Avennia 2015 Justine Columbia Valley $38 92 points
This wine is 55% Grenache, 32% Mourvèdre and 13% Syrah, coming from Upland, Heart of the Hill and Oldfield respectively. Somewhat lighter in color, the aromas start out brooding with notes of raspberry, high-toned dried herb, mineral, pomegranate and cherry emerging over time. Ripe in style reflecting the warm vintage it comes from, the palate is packed full of red- and blue-fruit flavors that have a seamless feel with generous spice and herb accents throughout. It shows a lovely sense of purity on the fruit-filled finish. Editor’s Choice

Avennia 2015 Gravura Columbia Valley $38 91 points
This wine is near equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance Cabernet Franc. Coming from a who’s who of vineyards, the aromas are expressive, with notes of leafy dried herb, graphite, raspberry, cherry, toast, scorched earth, dark coffee and mineral. The palate shows an assortment of sweet red- and black-fruit flavors that display an exquisite sense of balance and polish. It’s a superb value with a long life ahead of it. Editor’s Choice

B. Leighton 2015 Syrah Olsen Brothers Yakima Valley $45 93 points
The aromas draw you into the glass with notes of green herb, freshly peeled orange, raspberry, smoked meat and mineral. The palate is reserved in style but still quite flavorful, with seamless smoked-meat flavors that linger on the long, long finish. Lighter styled, it’s all about subtlety and nuance but it delivers both in abundance. Editor’s Choice

B. Leighton 2015 Gratitude Olsen Brothers Vineyard Yakima Valley $55 90 points
This wine is a blend of 70% Mourvèdre, 25% Grenache and 5% Syrah. Lighter in color, the aromas offer notes of raspberry compote, orange peel, cherry and spice. The palate is light and airy, with raspberry notes on the finish. It’s a pretty blend of these varieties.

Baer 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Arctos Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $43 88 points
Aromas of baking spice, black raspberry, cherry liqueur, fruit leather and black licorice are followed by pitch-black fruit flavors. There are a lot of good things going on but the fruit seems a bit desiccated.

Baer 2015 Malbec Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $25 87 points
The aromas aren’t quite ready to reveal their charms. The plum flavors are more giving but can’t make up the difference. It seems to be in a strange spot.

Baer 2015 Merlot Star Stillwater Creek Columbia Valley $35 90 points
The aromas are high register, with notes of flower, bittersweet chocolate, slightly dried-out cherry and black licorice. The palate has a firm sense of structure, with well-integrated tannins and abundant cherry flavors.

Baer 2015 Red Blend Callisto Columbia Valley $39 89 points
A blend of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Syrah, 15% Petit Verdot and 1% Merlot, the aromas bring notes of dried tobacco, vanilla dried cherry, barrel spice and black licorice. The palate is full of black-fruit flavors that show a lot of depth, with the tannins showing some astringency. It has good things going on but seems a bit dried out.

Baer 2015 Ursa Columbia Valley $39 88 points
Merlot (38%) and Cabernet Franc (38%) make up the bulk of this wine, with the balance, Cabernet Sauvignon (22%) and Malbec. Somewhat high-toned aromas of black raspberry, anise and spice are followed by soft ripe black-fruit flavors. It brings appeal but seems ever so slightly dried out.

Balancing Act 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Washington $18 87 points
Fruit forward aromas of plum, black currant, herb and spice lead to lightly sweet blue and black fruit flavors in this wine. Grainy tannins provide support, delivering easy-drinking appeal.

Barnard Griffin 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $17 88 points
Smoke, blue fruit and spice aromas lead to ripe, rounded fruit flavors in this wine. It offers a lot of direct appeal and value.

Barnard Griffin 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $17 88 points
This wine’s blueberry, herb and barrel spice aromas are appealing. Its fruit flavors are light in style and glide toward the finish. It’s an enjoyable, straightfoward Merlot.

Barnard Griffin 2015 Red Blend Robb’s Columbia Valley $12 85 points
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up the bulk of this wine, with the rest Petit Verdot, Petite Sirah, Malbec and Syrah. Arugula, garden herb, plum, cherry and spice aromas are followed by light fruit flavors with a medicinal finish.

Barnard Griffin 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $17 90 points
This is an intriguing offering, with aromas of crushed flower, herb, orange peel, blue fruit and wet stone. The palate is loaded with fruit and savory flavors that show a delicate styling. The balance is downright impressive.

Barrister 2015 Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley $31 91 points
Most of this wine comes from fruit from Bacchus Vineyard. Whole green-pepper, fresh herb, cherry and spice aromas lead to full-bodied, rich ripe sweet cherry and herb flavors that lead to a warm finish.

Barrister 2015 Sangiovese Kiona Estate Red Mountain $35 87 points
Aromas of baking spice, coconut, dried cherry and herb lead to a palate that mixes fruit and barrel. It runs a bit hot and the fruit seems dried out.

Basalt 2015 GSM Columbia Valley $36 88 points
Made from 44% Syrah, 39% Grenache and 17% Mourvèdre, this offers high-toned raspberry, gun smoke, cherry, herb and pencil lead aromas and rich fruit flavors that finish warm and a bit green.

Basel Cellars 2015 Cabernet Franc Estate Double River Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $36 85 points
Not entirely harmonious aromas of smoke, herb, vanilla and crayon lead to smoky blue fruit and barrel flavors.

Basel Cellars 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $36 87 points
Aromas of vanilla, barrel spice, exotic spice, blackberry and anise lead to nicely proportioned fruit and barrel flavors. It’s intriguing but doesn’t quite deliver.

Basel Cellars 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Double River Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $50 87 points
Aromas of sweet baking spices, pencil lead and black cherry lead to a palate where fruit and barrel tones play equal parts. A vanilla note persists on the finish.

Basel Cellars 2015 Carmenère Columbia Valley $34 85 points
The aromas are a bit off-putting out of the gate, showing notes of tire rubber, with vanilla, herb, green pepper and cayenne. The palate is lighter in style, with soft fruit, herbs and plenty of barrel accents.

Basel Cellars 2015 Claret Columbia Valley $25 87 points
Merlot and Cabernet Franc each make up 30% of this blend, with the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Aromas of char, pencil eraser, tobacco, graphite and heaping amounts of exotic spice are followed by lighter styled fruit and barrel flavors that continue intermingling through the finish.

Basel Cellars 2015 Malbec Columbia Valley $34 85 points
Baking spice, green herbs, tire rubber, vanilla and slightly dried out blue fruit aromas lead to lighter styled flavors that seem very woody. It doesn’t all come together on the palate.

Basel Cellars 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $36 87 points
Aromas of plum, boysenberry, vanilla and spice carry the nose of this wine. The flavors are surprisingly elegant in style considering the warmth of the vintage and it shows a sense of sleekness that provides appeal.

Basel Cellars 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $34 87 points
The oak seems at the fore, with notes of vanilla and baking spice in front of orange peel, flower, blue plum and dark fruit. The flavors bring a soft, textured feel. There are good things going on but the wood seems a bit overbearing.

Basel Cellars 2015 Syrah Double River Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $36 87 points
Intriguing aromas of baking spice, black olive brine, crushed gravel and blackberry lead to lighter styled fruit and barrel flavors that taper toward the finish.

Basel Cellars 2015 Merriment Columbia Valley $46 91 points
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Malbec. Somewhat lighter in color, the aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of graphite, smoke, cedar, herb, green pepper and cherry, along with toasty barrel accents. The palate is elegantly styled, with soft, sumptuous fruit flavors and a vanilla note that lingers on the finish.

Basel Cellars 2015 Inspired Columbia Valley $46 87 points
A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, high toned aromas of vanilla, exotic spice, raspberry and cherry are followed by light, plump fruit and barrel flavors that finish a touch bitter.

Beast 2015 Red Blend Wildebeest Columbia Valley $24 87 points
Blueberry, blackberry, herb and tar aromas lead to lighter-styled fruit flavors. There’s a sizable dip in the middle but what’s there is pleasant.

Bells Up 2015 Syrah Summit View Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $36 87 points
From an up-and-coming part of the Walla Walla Valley, this has barrel spice, raspberry and dried cherry aromas followed by somewhat elegant red fruit flavors that taper toward the finish. It doesn’t all quite come together.

Betz Family 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Père de Famille Columbia Valley $75 92 points
Appealing aromas of bay leaf, cherry, herb, bittersweet chocolate, incense and spice are followed by an action-packed palate, loaded with sweet, polished, elegant fruit flavors. Well-integrated tannins provide support. All about sophistication and delicacy, it shows a remarkable amount of freshness and focus considering the warmth of the vintage. Anise and currant notes linger on the finish. Best after 2026 with a very long life in front of it. Cellar Selection

Betz Family 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Heart of the Hill Red Mountain $110 91 points
This 100% varietal wine was partially fermented in concrete before being aged in all new French oak. It offers cassis, plum, anise, thyme, woodspice and black currant aromas, along with a light medicinal note. Its dark fruit flavors are rich and plush, showing surprisingly soft tannins considering the variety and region.

Betz Family 2015 Red Blend Possibility Columbia Valley $35 90 points
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (41%), Syrah (39%), Petit Verdot (15%) and Merlot, the aromas are fruit forward, with notes of raspberry compote and plum along with thyme and other herbs. The palate is chock-full of plump fruit flavors backed by soft tannins.

Betz Family 2015 Syrah La Serenne Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $60 92 points
Coming from one of the state’s top Syrah vineyards, this offers high-toned aromas of potpourri, red and blue fruit, sage, bacon fat, iron and spice. These lead to supple, restrained smoked meat and red-fruit flavors, stretching out on the finish. It brings a sense of elegance, taking some time to get going before strutting its stuff. Editor’s Choice

Betz Family 2015 Syrah La Côte Rousse Red Mountain $60 91 points
Intriguing aromas of boysenberry syrup, plum, sweet herb and barrel spice lead to exquisitely balanced, somewhat elegantly styled fruit and savory flavors. It’s a very understated, very pretty expression of this warm vintage and growing region.

Betz Family 2015 Syrah La Côte Patriarche Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley $60 90 points
This wine is quite reduced out of the gate in notes of smoke, game, blue fruit and minerals. The flavors are quite tight and structured. It’s a bit unapproachable now, needing some time in the cellar to settle down.

Betz Family 2015 Clos de Betz Columbia Valley $60 91 points
This wine is a blend of 75% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot. Somewhat lighter in color, the aromas bring notes of cedar, raspberry, cherry, thyme, pencil eraser, flower and exotic spice. The palate shows restraint and finesse, especially considering the warmth of the vintage. It’s a pretty, understated wine that should cellar well.

Bledsoe 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Flying B Walla Walla Valley $48 89 points
Coming from a hot vintage, the aromas bring notes of blackberry jam, coffee, fruit rollup, flower and herb. The tannins are quite firm, showing a bit of astringency out of the gate but settling down with some time open. Despite the warmth of the vintage, it brings a pleasing sense of acidity.

Block Wines 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Block 1 Discovery Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $55 90 points
This wine, which is 100% varietal, saw no new oak, and was aged for 21 months in 500 liter, once-used puncheons. The aromas are bright, with notes of black-cherry meats, fresh and dried herb, scorched earth, whole green pepper and anise. The palate is lighter styled, wound up initially, with the fruit surrounded by tightly wrapped tannins, framed by bright acidity. It needs a bit of time to settle in but it has all of the stuffing.

Block Wines 2015 Grenache Golden Block Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $40 92 points
Quite light in color with almost an orange hue, this wine brings exuberant aromas of white pepper, fresh herb, red fruit, stem, smoked meat and potpourri. The palate is light, elegant and transparent in style with vibrant fruit, spice and savory flavors that linger on the extended finish and kick it up a notch. The oak influence is dialed way back. It delivers a lot of enjoyment on its own but should really sing at the dinner table. Editor’s Choice

Block Wines 2015 Syrah Ankleroller Block Stoney Vine Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $50 93 points
The aromas are brooding initially, opening up over time to reveal notes of tar, dried herb, smoked meat, black olive, potpourri , orange peel and white pepper. The palate brings a real sense of freshness and intensity, with notes of flowers and earth. Lemon-twist and orange-peel notes brighten and focus the flavors.

Board Track Racer 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon The Chief Columbia Valley $28 88 points
Light aromas of cocoa, herb, licorice and barrel spice are followed by medium-bodied cherry flavors. The finish seems a bit clipped.

Board Track Racer 2015 Red Blend The Shift Columbia Valley $28 86 points
This wine is mostly Syrah (88%) finished off with Mourvèdre. Unusual, not entirely appealing aromas of barbeque sauce, smoked ribs and medicine cabinet lead to flat-seeming fruit flavors.

Bontzu 2015 Grenache Reserve Walla Walla Valley $60 90 points
The aromas are alluring, with notes of stem, dried herb, white pepper, cigar box and raspberry. The palate is chock-full of raspberry flavors that show a pleasing purity, and the finish lingers, showing just a touch of heat.

Boomtown 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $19 87 points
Fruit-forward aromas of black currant and plum lead to plump, easy-drinking fruit flavors. It’s straightforward, though it seems to lack concentration, especially in the middle.

Boomtown 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $19 86 points
Aromas of red currant are bright and fresh, with little apparent new-oak influence. Raspberry and currant flavors bring more of the same. It’s a straightforward, easy drinker.

Boomtown 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $19 87 points
Aromas of dark fruit, smoked meat and herb lead to plentiful plum flavors that miss a bit in the middle. It comes up short on the finish but otherwise provides appeal.

Browne Family Vineyards 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Heritage Columbia Valley $NA 88 points
Aromas of black currant, licorice, plum and dried herb are followed by elegant flavors. The tannins show a touch of dryness.

Browne Family Vineyards 2015 Red Blend & Columbia Valley $40 88 points
This leads with blue fruit aromas and follows with baking spice notes. The flavors are sweet, plump and undeniably appealing.

Burnt Bridge 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $45 86 points
With fruit coming from Les Collines Vineyard, aromas of green pepper, tire rubber, baking spice and cherry are followed by slightly sweet-seeming fruit flavors. Soft tannins provide support. It doesn’t all come together.

Buty 2015 Merlot-Cabernet Franc Conner Lee Vineyard Columbia Valley $45 90 points
This wine leans into the savory, with aromas of sliced green pepper along with assorted fresh herbs, flowers and macerated cherry. The palate is soft in style, filled with sleek, minerally cherry flavors. It brings a sense of freshness, purity and elegance.

Cadence 2015 Coda Red Mountain $28 92 points
This blend of Cabernet Franc (46%), Merlot (28%), Cabernet Sauvignon (17%) and Petit Verdot (9%) starts out brooding, with black cherry, herb, black currant, anise, and spice notes. The palate is rich and structured, loaded with dark fruit flavors and firm tannins. Give it some time to open up. Editor’s Choice

Canoe Ridge 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon The Expedition Horse Heaven Hills $16 86 points
Light aromas offer notes of berry, herb, plum and whiffs of tire rubber. The palate comes off a bit green and sweet, with lightly gritty tannins providing support.

Canoe Ridge 2015 Merlot The Expedition Horse Heaven Hills $16 87 points
With the fruit from equal parts The Benches and Canoe Ridge Vineyard, the addition of Syrah (9%) stands out on the aromas, with its notes of plum followed by vanilla and licorice. The palate is lightly sweet, with bunched-up tannins.

Canoe Ridge 2015 Red Blend The Expedition Horse Heaven Hills $16 88 points
This wine is just over two-thirds Merlot, the balance in Syrah, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Dark plum, coffee, bittersweet chocolate and spice aromas are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors backed by plump tannins. It goes down easy.

Canvasback 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $40 90 points
This offers generous black cherry, black raspberry, fruit leather, mineral, spice and herb aromas. The fruit flavors are obviously there, but like most offerings from this appellation, it’s very much about structure, framed by firm, juicy tannins and crisp acidity.

Casa Smith 2015 Barbera Cervo Northridge Vineyard Wahluke Slope $20 91 points
The aromas leap up out of the glass, with exquisite notes of plum, spice and cherry cream. On the palate, it’s rich with soft fruit flavors, showing ripeness but still maintaining its balance, with the neutral oak aging bringing an aching sense of purity. Candied-cherry notes linger on the finish. It’s a whole lot of wine for the money, with a big yum factor. Editor’s Choice

Casa Smith 2015 Primitivo Porcospino Northridge Vineyard Wahluke Slope $20 91 points
Coming from a vineyard that is increasingly establishing its prominence, fruit-forward aromas of plum, boysenberry, dried herb, spice and moist earth are followed by saturated sumptuous blue and red-fruit flavors. It’s undeniable in its appeal at a price that can’t be beat. Editor’s Choice

Casa Smith 2015 Sangiovese Cinghiale Wahluke Slope & Rosebud Vineyards Wahluke Slope $NA 89 points
This wine’s macerated cranberry, raspberry jam and dried orange peel aromas are bright. Its raspberry and cranberry flavors are sweet and focused, delivering a lot of appeal, though seeming a bit ripe.

Castillo de Feliciana 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Walla Walla Valley (OR) $48 87 pointsThis wine’s plum, clove, herb, freshly hewn wood and barrel spice aromas are followed by plump yet elegant, smooth fruit flavors. The oak steals the show.

Castillo de Feliciana 2015 Malbec Estate Walla Walla Valley (OR) $48 89 points
This wine’s bright plum, vanilla and barrel spice aromas lead to persistent, palate-coating fruit flavors. It’s a full-bore, enjoyable interpretation of this variety that shows some warmth on the finish.

Castillo de Feliciana 2015 Tempranillo Estate Walla Walla Valley (OR) $48 87 points
This wine’s appealing fresh plum, cherry, pencil lead, wood spice and dried herb aromas are followed by generous fruit and barrel flavors that bring a lightly grainy feel. It’s an intriguing example of this variety.

Castillo de Feliciana 2015 Bolsa Negra Vino Rojo Reserve Columbia Valley $60 87 points
This is half Malbec, 30% Petit Verdot, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Petit Verdot takes over the aroma, evoking flowers, potting soil and green herbs, along with barrel accents. Tart cherry and blackberry flavors follow, backed by a lot of acid.

Catman 2015 Barbera Columbia Valley $32 83 points
The cranberry and raspberry aromas show volatility that distracts. The flavors are lightly sweet with a tart finish.

Catman 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $32 85 points
Aromas of plum and high-toned dried herb lead to cherry and berry flavors. The tannins bring a lightly gritty feel. The tartness of the acidity adds to the enjoyment, but you’d never peg it for Cabernet.

Catman 2015 Malbec Rattlesnake Hills $32 88 points
The aromas of marionberry, licorice and herb bring a sense of purity, along with light whiffs of oxidation. The dark-fruit flavors are a strange mixture of sweet and tart, not entirely coming together. It doesn’t quite stand up on its own but should fit in well at the dinner table.

Catman 2015 Zinfandel Rattlesnake Hills $36 89 points
Lighter in color, high-toned aromas of raspberry and cranberry jam lead to full-bodied jammy, lip-smacking red-fruit flavors with the barrel influence dialed back. It’s a spot on example of the variety.

Cavatappi 2015 Sangiovese Columbia Valley $12 87 points
The aromas are fruit forward, with notes of plum and herb. The palate is supple in feel, showing little apparent new oak influence and zippy acidity. It doesn’t seem entirely varietal aromatically but still brings appeal and should fit in well at the dinner table. Best Buy 

Cayuse 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah The Lovers Walla Walla Valley (OR) $100 90 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (85%) makes up the bulk of this wine, which is finished off with Syrah. Aromas of moist earth, funk, black currant and herb lead to soft, smooth cherry and green pepper flavors. It possesses a lovely feel.

Cayuse 2015 Red Blend God Only Knows Walla Walla Valley (OR) $100 93 points
The aromas aren’t quite ready to reveal their charms on first pour, with notes of strawberry, smoked meat, ground rock and crushed flower emerging over time. The flavors are light but sumptuous, showing a lovely sense of texture.

Cayuse 2015 Syrah Armada Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $100 94 points
This is the only one of Cayuse’s single-vineyard Syrahs to be produced this vintage due to a closure issue. The aromas are locked up on first pour, with notes of fire pit, flower, butcher shop, green olive, smoked ham, blackberry underbrush, mineral and smoked meat. The palate is flavorful, full of smoke and meat notes that linger on the extended finish.

Cedar + Salmon 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $25 88 points
Cedar, spice, vanilla, fresh herb, black licorice and cherry pie aromas are followed by firm fruit and barrel flavors in this wine. Vanilla notes linger on the finish.

Charles & Charles 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah Syrah Post No. 35 Blend Columbia Valley $14 88 points
This 70-30 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah brings fruit-filled aromas of plum, herb and cherry. It packs a mouthful of fruit flavors, with firm lightly astringent tannins providing support. It needs some time to stretch its legs.

Charles & Charles 2015 Merlot Blend Columbia Valley $14 87 points
Merlot makes up three-quarters of this blend, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon (21%) and Cabernet Franc. It starts out a bit reduced, providing some initial distraction from its aromas of plum, herb, asphalt and currant. The blue-fruit and smoke flavors show a sense of plushness, with savory notes lingering on the finish. The tannins bring some grip. It provides enjoyment but the Merlot doesn’t really pop and the smoky notes seem out of place.

Charles Smith 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Chateau Smith Washington $20 88 points
The aromas are forward, with notes of black currant, blue fruit, herb and spice. The palate delivers a mouthful of sweet blue-fruit flavors, with the oak dialed back. Lightly dry tannins provide support. It’s hard to necessarily place it as Cabernet but it brings plenty of appeal.

Charles Smith 2015 Merlot The Velvet Devil Washington $13 88 points
The aromas in this wine are bright, with notes of herb, tire rubber and red currant, with the oak influence dialed back. The fruit flavors are lighter styled, direct and pure, going down easy with blue-fruit flavors on the finish. It’s a pleasant easy drinker. Best Buy

Charles Smith 2015 Syrah Boom Boom! Washington $14 87 points
The aromas are bright, with notes of fresh flowers, potpourri, black pepper, blue fruit and tar. The palate is fruit forward and simple, not delivering on all the aromas have to offer. It pulls up short on the finish.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $15 89 points
For Cabernet, the aromas are surprisingly blue and purple fruited, almost smelling more like a Syrah. Putting that aside, it brings a lot of appeal with a real sense of freshness to the fruit flavors. The tannins seem a bit bunched up at present, needing a little more time to stretch out. Still, it provides plenty of enjoyment.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Indian Wells Columbia Valley $18 88 points
It seems quite blue fruited for a Cabernet, with aromas and flavors of plum and blueberry along with herb, vanilla and baking spice. It doesn’t seem particularly varietal but it’s pretty delicious all the same.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Canoe Ridge Estate Horse Heaven Hills $28 87 points
Aromas of dill, pickling spice, vanilla, herb and dark fruit lead to straight down the fairway, with light but plump-feeling fruit flavors. The aromas and flavors don’t sync up.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Cold Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $30 87 points
The aromas are bright, with notes of cherry, plum, vanilla and baking spice. The fruit flavors are plump, with plenty of barrel accents. The tannins come off as quite dry, leading to a sweet vanilla-filled finish. The oak is at the fore.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Merlot Indian Wells Columbia Valley $18 90 points
Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of vanilla, cocoa and milk chocolate out in front of blackberry and black cherry. The palate also mixes fruit and barrel, showing pleasing depth of flavors and intensity along with a silky texture.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $15 89 points
Raspberry, cocoa, coffee and vanilla aromas lead to plump, focused fruit flavors. It’s both appealing and quite varietally correct. For those looking for a quality value Merlot, look no further.

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Red Blend Indian Wells Columbia Valley $18 86 points
Syrah and Merlot make up the majority of this blend, which is topped off with pinches of other Bordeaux and Rhône varieties. The aromas are inviting, with notes of blueberry pie, herb and smoke. The fruit flavors don’t entirely deliver on this promise, with quite-light plum notes that paint around the edges. Vanilla notes linger on the finish.

Cloudlift Cellars 2015 Cabernet Franc Ascent Yakima Valley $28 87 points
Blended with small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, this offers high-toned spice, raspberry, matchstick, cherry and dried herb aromas. Its light, elegant fruit flavors make it a pretty expression of the variety.

Cloudlift Cellars 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Cloud 2 Columbia Valley $40 89 points
This new offering from Cloudlift Cellars was made predominantly from old vines at Bacchus Vineyard. The aroma shows notes of herb, cedar, plum and blueberry. It’s full of elegant blue fruit flavors that coat the palate, backed by tart acidity and a lick of tannin.

Cloudlift Cellars 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Halcyon Columbia Valley $30 89 points
This wine offers pleasing café au lait, black raspberry, cherry, graphite and spice aromas. It has lovely polished and balanced blackberry and raspberry flavors that dip slightly in the middle before coming back together on the finish.

Cloudlift Cellars 2015 G-S-M Columbia Valley $34 88 points
This wine is 44% Syrah, with the rest equal parts Mourvèdre and Grenache. Its blueberry pie, huckleberry, orange peel, herb, raspberry, black pepper and spice aromas lead to sweet fruit flavors that linger on the finish.

Cloudlift Cellars 2015 Merlot Panorama Columbia Valley $27 89 points
This wine’s aromas pop, with blueberry, cherry and woodspice notes and a kiss of dried herb. The flavors are ripe and juicy, with a soft texture.

Cloudlift Cellars 2015 Petit Verdot Stratus Yakima Valley $32 88 pointsSourced from Elephant Mountain Vineyard, this offers café au lait, char, woodspice and cherry aromas and sleekly styled fruit flavors backed by bright acidity. The variety’s characteristic burly tannins are well in check.

Co Dinn 2015 GSM Red Wine Lonesome Springs Ranch Vineyard Yakima Valley $45 90 points
This Syrah-dominated blend has ripe raspberry jam, blueberry pie, dried herb, anise and blackberry aromas that lead to full-bodied dark fruit flavors. It’s full-bore in style, like the vintage it comes from.

Col Solare 2015 Cabernet Franc Component Collection Estate Vineyard Red Mountain $85 88 points
There’s no question about the variety, with its notes of dried and fresh herb, flower and cherry, along with red-apple skin. There’s a pleasing sense of balance to the palate, with the tannins bringing a lightly tacky feel. Give it some time in the decanter if opening in the near term.

Col Solare 2015 Malbec Component Collection Red Mountain $85 90 points
The aromas are subdued, with notes of wood-spice, herb, dark chocolate, tar and black and blue fruit. Pillowy soft fruit flavors follow, with the tannins giving a light squeeze. A warm finish follows.

Col Solare 2015 Malbec Collector’s Society Red Mountain $95 88 points
On this 100% varietal wine, plentiful aromas of plum, tar and spice are followed by elegantly styled fruit flavors. It’s a very pretty expression of the variety from this blazing hot appellation and vintage.

Col Solare 2015 Syrah Component Collection Estate Vineyard Red Mountain $85 87 points
Herb, flower, char, blue-fruit, tar and cedar aromas are followed by full-bodied fruit flavors. It trails on the blue-fruit-filled finish. It seems quite light and linear right now.

Col Solare 2015 Collector’s Society Red Mountain $95 87 points
A unique blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (63%) and the seldom seen in the state Carmenère, the aromas are downright fruity, with notes of black currant, berry, red apple and herb. The flavors are sweet and ripe but maintain a sense of balance, though they seem a bit bunched up.

Columbia Crest 2015 Cabernet Franc Reserve Beverly Vineyard Columbia Valley $45 88 points
Aromas of slightly overripe apple, dried herb and spice are followed by plump, concentrated plum flavors. It doesn’t all come together by the finish.

Columbia Crest 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Heart of the Hill Vineyard Red Mountain $40 88 points
Red-apple-skin, blackberry and spice aromas lead to full-bodied cherry and cranberry flavors. The tannins give a firm, dry squeeze. Give it an extended decant if drinking in the near term.

Columbia Crest 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon H3 Horse Heaven Hills $15 87 points
Aromas of plum, stewed cherry, milk chocolate and vanilla are accented by notes of smoke. Fruit and barrel flavors intertwine on the palate, with fruit winning out on the finish that narrows a bit.

Columbia Crest 2015 Malbec Reserve Andrews & Rowell Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $40 86 points
The aromas show notes of bruised apple and pear. Lighter-styled plum flavors follow. It doesn’t all work.

Columbia Crest 2015 Merlot Reserve Four Feathers Vineyard Columbia Valley $40 88 points
This wine is fruity in notes of raspberry and plum, with plenty of mocha accents. The flavors are soft and supple, intermingling fruit and barrel tones, with the latter stealing the show on the finish.

Columbia Crest 2015 Merlot H3 Horse Heaven Hills $15 88 points
Aromas of plum and blue fruit are accented by high-toned spices and milk chocolate. Flavors are soft, palate coating and poised, with blue-fruit flavors lingering on the finish. It doesn’t necessarily taste like Merlot but still brings plenty of appeal.

Columbia Crest 2015 Red Blend Les Chevaux Horse Heaven Hills $15 86 points
The mint, green herb, vanilla and blackberry aromas are elusive. The flavors are lightly styled, with a sweet finish.

Columbia Crest 2015 Syrah Grand Estates Columbia Valley $12 91 points
The aromas in this wine pop, with notes of dried herb, plum, vanilla and smoked meat. It brings a compelling sense of texture, coating the palate from end to end with exquisitely balanced fruit and savory flavors. It’s a knockout at this price. Best Buy

Columbia Winery 2015 Cabernet Franc Horse Heaven Hills $NA 87 points
Caramel, cherry, plum, green pepper, herb, black pepper, tire rubber and wood spice are followed by sweet plump strawberry and plum flavors. It’s an unusual offering of this variety.

Columbia Winery 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $16 87 points
High-toned smoke, char, baking spice, berry and herb aromas are followed by plentiful currant, plum and vanilla flavors, with a crème de cassis finish. The tannins are surprisingly soft for the variety.

Columbia Winery 2015 Malbec Columbia Valley $38 89 points
Fruit-forward aromas of plums, blueberries, clove and dried herbs lead to soft, plump fruit flavors in this wine. Coffee and raspberry notes linger on the finish, providing a lot of appeal.

Columbia Winery 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $16 86 points
Lighter in color, the aromas bring unusual notes of seaweed, cherry, wet penny and exotic spice. The palate is full of ripe raspberry and red-cherry flavors with a short finish. If the aromas and flavors sync up, it might move up a notch or two.

Columbia Winery 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $14 87 points
A blend of Merlot and Syrah, the aromas of smoke, matchstick, high-toned dried herb, spice and purple fruit give way to quite sweet-seeming dark-fruit flavors. Lightly grainy tannins provide support. The sweetness seems distracting.

Columbia Winery 2015 Syrah Horse Heaven Hills $38 87 points
Aged in 54% new French, American and Hungarian barrels, this seems dominated by oak, with aromas and flavors of chocolate, vanilla and ash overshadowing its blueberry and flower notes. Its firm tannins seem out of place.

Columbia Winery 2015 Tempranillo Horse Heaven Hills $35 89 points
This wine’s cherry, plum, flower, graphite and spice aormas lead to compact fruit flavors surrounded by firm tannins. Equal parts intrigue and delivery, it needs some time to unwind.

Columbia Winery 2015 Vision Columbia Valley $NA 88 points
This wine is a blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Aromas of plum, raspberry jam, white pepper and barrel spice lead to full-bodied fruit flavors. Raspberry and plum notes linger on the slightly candied finish.

Côte Bonneville 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Train Station Estate Bottled Yakima Valley $35 88 points
Generous aromas of fresh black currant, blackberry, herb and anise are followed by fruit-forward flavors. The tannins give a gentle squeeze. Coffee notes linger on the finish. It’s straight down the fairway for this variety.

Covington 2015 Rough House Columbia Valley $21 87 points
This wine is a blend of 48% Cabernet Franc, 43% Merlot and 9% Petit Verdot. Green herbs, flowers, barrel spice and cherry aromas lead to a lightly styled mixture of red and black fruit flavors that lose concentration in the middle. The tannins seem a bit gritty.

DaMa 2015 Tempranillo Columbia Valley $45 86 points
This wine is quite light in color for the variety. Aromas of fresh tobacco, orange peel and herb are followed by lighter-styled fruit flavors. It all seems quite dialed back, not appearing to have fully ripened and fleshed out.

Damsel 2015 Malbec Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $36 88 points
Blended with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the black-pepper, clove, flower, herb and spice aromas are followed by light plump fruit flavors, with a tart finish. The concentration seems light for the variety but what’s there is interesting.

Damsel 2015 The Fates Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $36 93 points
This wine is equal parts Grenache and Mourvèdre (co-fermented), finished off with Syrah and aged in neutral French-oak puncheons. The aromas are fascinating, with notes of fresh savory herbs, capers, sea salt, white pepper, bacon fat and mixed fruit. The flavors are plump and appealing, mixing fruity and savory tones that lead to a pepper and olive finish. It’s a standout interpretation of this vineyard. Editor’s Choice

DeLille 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Four Flags Red Mountain $69 91 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Grand Ciel (30%), Upchurch (30%), Ciel du Cheval (26%) and Klipsun vineyards. Its vibrant aromas of bittersweet chocolate, graphite, coffee, black cherries, black raspberries and barrel spices lead to a palate packed to the brim with dark fruit flavors. Its supported by a firm handshake of tannin.

DeLille 2015 Syrah Signature Yakima Valley $46 91 points
This wine’s raspberry, cherry, herb, orange peel, coffee, smoke and spice aromas are understated. The flavors showing a very pretty sense of styling.

DeLille 2015 Métier Columbia Valley $38 91 points
This wine is 38% Mourvèdre, 38% Grenache, 21% Syrah and 3% Cinsaut. Its reserved blackberry, cherry cordial, herb and spice aromas lead to full-bodied red and black fruit flavors. Give it some time to open up.

DeLille 2015 D2 Columbia Valley $49 87 points
This wine is mostly Merlot (58%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (35%) along with pinches of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Aromas of dried raspberry, mint, herb and spice lead to rich but dried-out-seeming fruit flavors that finish short.

Delmas 2015 Syrah SJR Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $NA 93 points
Out of the gate, this is a bit brooding for a wine from the Rocks District, with dried orange peel, crushed gravel, blue fruit and flower aromas, revealing smoked meat notes over time. The flavors lean savory, suggesting tapenade and ember, followed by softly textured blueberry fruit. Long on the finish, it’s all about elegance and sophistication. Editor’s Choice

Desert Wind 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown Wahluke Slope $18 86 points
The aromas bring notes of vanilla, green pepper, black tea, cherry and herb, and the palate delivers much the same. This wine comes off as a bit innocuous but is quite consistent throughout. It tapers on the finish.

Desert Wind 2015 Malbec Estate Grown Wahluke Slope $30 87 points
Green aromas are at the fore, with notes of underripe herb, mint, plum and spice. In contrast, the palate is full of spritely cherry and plum flavors. The aromas and flavors seem disconnected but it still brings intrigue.

Desert Wind 2015 Merlot Estate Grown Wahluke Slope $18 87 points
Aromas seem a bit locked up, with notes of plum, herb and cedar. The raspberry flavors similarly seem bunched up, with lightly dry tannins providing support. Vanilla flavors linger on the finish. The variety gets a bit lost.

Desert Wind 2015 Red Blend Estate Grown Ruah Proprietary Wahluke Slope $20 87 points
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Syrah, this offers high-toned aromas, with notes of green herb, cocoa and green pepper. The palate is chalky in feel, with the tannins seeming bunched up and dry. Cocoa notes linger on the finish. The greenness on the aromas is hard to get around.

Desert Wind 2015 Red Blend Estate Grown Ora Proprietary Wahluke Slope $30 86 points
This is an unusual blend of principally Syrah, Malbec, Tempranillo and Souzao, along with bits of Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of cocoa, vanilla and green herb lead to tart cherry flavors that seem underripe. The finish comes up short.

Devium 2015 French Creek Vineyard Yakima Valley $34 90 points
The inaugural release from this winery from Sleight of Hand Cellars’ production winemaker Keith Johnson is a blend of Mourvèdre (90%), Syrah (8%) and Grenache Blanc. Stylistically somewhat unique for Washington, it brings brooding aromas of sauvage, herb, smoked meat and white pepper, along with a bit of reduction. The fruit flavors are pure and bring an appealing sense of texture. Give it time to open up and pair it with food to see it at its best.

Disastrous by Nature 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $13 88 points
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot make up the bulk of this wine, with a number of other varieties. The aromas are fruit-forward, with plum and huckleberry notes and light herb accents. The palate offers directly appealing, sweet fruit flavors. It goes down easy. Best Buy

Disruption 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $15 88 points
The fruit for this wine comes from Purple Sage and Wahluke Slope vineyards. A bit reduced out of the gate, it reveals black cherry, blackberry and herb notes as it opens. The palate shows pleasing balance, with fruit and barrel notes that intertwine on the smoky finish. A squeeze of tannin holds it all together.

Disruption 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $15 88 points
This 100% varietal wine comes mainly from the Wahluke Slope. Its bittersweet chocolate, blue fruit, peanut shell, cherry, herb and anise aromas are followed by plush fruit and barrel flavors. It’s a lot of wine for the price.

Disruption 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $15 88 points
This blend of 59% Cabernet, 24% Malbec and 17% Petit Verdot shows some reduction out of the gate, with tire rubber notes followed by cherry, herb, plum and flower scents. The palate brings firm tannins and fleshy fruit flavors, with smoky notes on the finish. It punches above its weight class, especially once the reduction blows off.

Double Canyon 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $25 88 points
Light aromas of baking spice and herb are at the fore. The palate is on the lighter side of medium bodied, bringing a sense of freshness and vibrancy.

Doubleback 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve Walla Walla Valley $145 91 points
The winery’s first reserve-level wine, this shows some reduction out of the gate, making it a challenge to perceive its blackberry, smoke, incense and herb aromas. The palate brings a sense of elegance and restraint despite the warmth of the vintage. Perhaps some time in bottle will serve it well.

Doubleback 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $97 91 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from estate sites McQueen, Bob Healey and Lefore along with Pepper Bridge. The aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of high cacao chocolate, spice, bay leaf, dried flower, cassis, raspberry, herb and cherry, showing pleasing complexities. The black-currant, cherry and spice flavors coat the palate, bringing a sense of richness but still restraint and vibrancy.

Drink Washington State 2015 Carmenère Visit Wahluke Slope Wahluke Slope $26 87 points
The aromas come off as quite green, with notes of assorted garden herbs along with cherries and orange. The flavors are lighter in style, painting around the edges with a dip in the midpalate. It’s intriguing but doesn’t entirely come together.

Drink Washington State 2015 Escape to Walla Walla Walla Walla Valley $26 88 points
This blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot boasts bright raspberry and cherry aromas, with green wood, baking spice and whiffs of game. The palate delivers concentrated fruit and medicinal flavors that carry through the finish.

Drumheller 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $12 86 points
The aromas of plum and blue fruit bring appeal but don’t seem entirely varietal. Flavors are sweet, backed by lightly tacky-feeling tannins. It delivers easy-drinking enjoyment, though characteristics of the variety seems hard to find.

Drumheller 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $12 87 points
Though labeled as Merlot, this smells more like Syrah which makes up 20% of the blend, with aromas of blue and purple fruit along with whiffs of smoked meat and dried herb. The fruit flavors are sweet and plump, backed by soft, luxurious tannins. It’s enjoyable but doesn’t seem varietally correct. Best Buy

Dumas Station 2015 Cow Catcher Walla Walla Valley $28 87 points
This wine is 45% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Cabernet Franc, topped off with 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Merlot. Aged in a mixture of American and French oak, it delivers green aromas, suggesting savory herbs, cherry, vanilla, coconut, dill and spice. The sweet barrel flavors tussle a bit with the fruit on the palate, not seeming entirely harmonious at present.

Dunham 2015 Red Blend Three Legged Washington $19 88 points
Upfront aromas of cocoa, vanilla, sawdust and savory herb are followed by flavors of plum, cherry and barrel spice. The oak and fruit play equal roles, with the flavors a bit dialed back.

Dusted Valley 2015 Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley $42 90 points
This combines fruit from Southwind, Sconni Block and Stone Tree vineyards. The aromas are light out of the gate, with barrel spice, fresh herb, black cherry, coffee and mineral notes that become more prominent over time. Concentrated fruit flavors are backed by firm, grippy tannins. The structure is impressive.

Dusted Valley 2015 Syrah Tall Tales Stoney Vine Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $60 93 points
Aged in second-fill French puncheons, this wine pops with green and black olive, charcuterie, stem, wet rock and potpourri aromas. The palate explodes with fruit and savory flavors that persist into a mineral-laden finish. A knockout. Editor’s Choice

Dusted Valley 2015 Wallywood Stone Tree Vineyard Wahluke Slope $42 87 points
Mourvèdre makes up 63% of this wine, with the rest 32% Syrah and 5% Grenache. It’s quite reduced out of the gate yet shows a ripe mixture of blackberry, raspberry, black pepper and spice flavors.

Dusted Valley 2015 Squirrel Tooth Alice Stone Tree Vineyard Wahluke Slope $39 87 points
Grenache (43%) takes the lead in this wine, followed by Mourvèdre (37%) and Syrah. Unusual aromas of crushed peanuts, savory herb and überripe fruit flavors lead to a peanut shell-like finish. It doesn’t all seem in harmony.

Dusty Cellars 2015 Cabernet Franc The Queen Columbia Valley $26 87 points
This wine comes off as quite green, with notes of assorted garden herbs, freshly cut bell pepper and moist soil. The black-fruit flavors are plush in feel, showing concentration and richness and a pleasing feel. If you can get around the overt greenness—and there’s plenty of it—there are things to enjoy.

Dusty Cellars 2015 Red Blend Spartan Rattlesnake Hills $15 87 points
Dried cherry and raspberry aromas lead to medium-bodied, sweet fruit flavors that seem bit clipped. It doesn’t all come together.

Efeste 2015 Mourvèdre Emmy Stone Tree Vineyard Wahluke Slope $54 92 points
Aged in neutral French oak, this has aromas that start out brooding but intriguing, with notes of raw meat, mineral, dried herb, crushed flower and huckleberry. The palate is earth-shaking in its richness and intensity, coating the palate with waves of fruit flavors. It hits the gong hard but maintains a lovely sense of balance.

Efeste 2015 Syrah Jolie Bouche Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $44 92 points
Coming from one of the state’s premier Syrah vineyards, the aromas pop, with notes of boysenberry, bacon fat, orange peel, herb and spice. The palate is dense and rich, packed with ultraripe blue- and black-fruit flavors. It delivers a lot of hedonistic appeal. For those looking for a big, bold, warm vintage Syrah, this one’s for you. Editor’s Choice

Efeste 2015 Syrah Eléni Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley $59 91 points
Fruit for this wine comes from the state’s original Syrah vineyard. Expressive aromas of dried herb, dark raspberry, huckleberry, spice and licorice lead to ripe, full fruit flavors that glide on the finish. It’s not shy, bringing a lot of richness and appeal.

Efeste 2015 Syrah Ceidleigh Red Mountain $39 90 points
Aromas of olive, iron and dark fruit lead to olive brine and raspberry flavors on the palate. From warm region and vintage, this is slightly atypical for the variety and not for all tastes.

Eight Bells 2015 Sangiovese Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley $25 89 points
Light in color, the aromas are elusive, with notes of raspberry and cherry candy, along with earth accents. The flavors are elegant and pure, lingering on the finish. It doesn’t quite stand up on its own but should absolutely shine at the dinner table.

Eight Bells 2015 Syrah 8 Clones Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley $38 92 points
A unique wine for the state, as the name implies, this is a blend of eight different clones of Syrah, along with pinches of Grenache and Viognier. Lighter in color, the aromas leap up, with notes of blueberry, fresh raspberry, flower, tangerine peel and dried and fresh herb. The palate shows a dazzling sense of texture and purity that lead to a fruit and smoked-meat-filled finish. It’s downright delicious. Give it some time to open up. Editor’s Choice

Eleven 2015 Mourvèdre Yakima Valley $44 86 points
The aromas bring unusual notes of grape cough syrup, smoke, herb and cherry Jolly Rancher. The palate falls flat, painting around the edges.

Eternal 2015 Merlot Eternal Gratitude Gamache Vineyard Columbia Valley $50 88 points
Aromas seem unsettled, with notes of dust, herb and cherry. The flavors are plush and ripe, delivering plenty of enjoyment.

Eternal 2015 Syrah Eternal Heritage Walla Walla Valley $60 90 points
Co-fermented with 5% Roussanne, this wine comes from Morrison Lane Vineyard. It’s brightly aromatic, with blueberry jam, huckleberry and spice notes. The palate is soft and textured, delivering rich fruit flavors and a long finish that shows some warmth.

Eternal 2015 Syrah Eternal Restraint Walla Walla Valley $60 90 points
Co-fermented with 5% Viognier, this wine’s appealing fresh flower, orange peel, ham hock and black olive tapenade aromas jump out of the glass. The palate is light, tart and sleek, not delivering on all that the aromas suggest but still providing plenty of intrigue.

Eternal 2015 Syrah Eternal Darkness Cockburn Ranch Walla Walla Valley $60 90 points
This wine’s aromas suggest black fruit, minerals, dark plum, barrel spice and kirsch. Its black fruit flavors are sweet and sappy, augmented with toasty barrel notes.

Eternal 2015 Rocketman Columbia Valley $35 89 points
This blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot and 5% Carmenère is fragrant, with raspberry, freshly sliced bell pepper and green herb notes. The palate is full of cocoa and chocolate flavors, leaning heavily on oak attributes but still providing appeal.

Feather 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $65 91 points
Effusive aromas of tar, blackberry, herb, graphite and spice lead to supple, pitch-black, extremely rich fruit flavors. Lightly grainy tannins back it all up.

Fielding Hills 2015 Cabernet Franc Estate Riverbend Vineyard Wahluke Slope $38 90 points
Always a standout for the winery, this vintage is no exception. Cocoa, vanilla extract and cherry aromas lead to full ripe fruit and barrel flavors. Spice notes linger on the warm finish.

Fielding Hills 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Riverbend Vineyard Wahluke Slope $46 91 points
Aromas of blackberry, plum, graphite, coffee, generous oak spices and cassis lead to rich ripe layered fruit flavors that are followed by a warm finish. Firm tannins back it all up. It’s a hedonistic delight.

Fielding Hills 2015 Malbec Estate Riverbend Vineyard Wahluke Slope $42 91 points
This is the winery’s third vintage of this wine. Aged in a combination of French and American oak (50% new), the aromas are generous, with notes of coconut, vanilla, cherry, graphite and spice. The full-bodied fruit flavors are plump and rich, with fruit and barrel intertwining on the finish. It brings a big yum factor.

Fielding Hills 2015 Merlot Estate Riverbend Vineyard Wahluke Slope $38 90 points
The aromas and flavors show notes of baking spice, vanilla, coconut, cherry and anise, mixing fruit and barrel. The tannins are lightly grainy in feel, with coconut flavors on the warm finish.

Fielding Hills 2015 Red Blend Estate Tribute Riverbend Vineyard Wahluke Slope $38 90 points
Barrel notes are at the fore, with aromas of vanilla, dill and baking spice in front of dark cherry. The palate is lush and full bodied, with fruit and barrel intertwining on the finish.

Fielding Hills 2015 Syrah Estate Riverbend Vineyard Wahluke Slope $42 91 points
Aged in French and American oak (88% new), aromas of toast, vanilla, coconut shavings, blackberry, cocoa and black cherry lead to rich ripe sweet full-bodied fruit flavors, with vanilla and coconut notes lingering on the finish. For those looking for a big full warm vintage Syrah, look no further.

Fielding Hills 2015 Syrah Estate Defiance Vineyard Lake Chelan $42 88 points
This is the winery’s first release from the estate vineyard adjacent to the recently built facility. Initially subdued aromas of raspberry, blueberry and barrel spice lead to ripe rich sweet smoky fruit flavors. Mesquite notes linger on the finish.

Figgins 2015 Walla Walla Valley $85 91 points
This single-vineyard wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Aromas of bittersweet chocolate, flower, tar, scorched earth, herb, cherry and barrel spice are followed by well-balanced dark-fruit flavors. The tannins bring a light grip. It doesn’t hit the high marks of recent vintages but still delivers enjoyment.

Flying Trout 2015 Red Blend Cutthroat Columbia Valley $32 92 points
Malbec makes up just under two-thirds of this wine, with the balance Syrah. Quite pure fruit-forward aromas of blue fruit, herb and clove lead to a sweet plush rich palate that shows good midpalate density. The finish lingers.

Flying Trout 2015 Red Blend Deep River Columbia Valley $29 91 points
Two-thirds of this wine is Malbec and one-third is Merlot. Aromas of asphalt, plum and orange rind lead to a palate that possesses a lovely sense of balance and length.

Foundry Vineyards 2015 Cabernet Franc Walla Walla Valley $34 88 points
This 100% varietal wine from Seven Hills Vineyard offers vanilla, pencil lead, cranberry, savory herb and cherry aromas and tobacco-laced flavors that show a mixture of fruit and barrel characteristics. Firm, lightly dry tannins provide support. The oak seems a bit heavy-handed.

Foundry Vineyards 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $42 88 points
This 100% varietal wine hails from Pheasant Run Vineyard. It brings cocoa, anise candy, black cherry, cedar and bittersweet chocolate notes. The palate is all about finesse, with plush, juicy fruit flavors.

Foundry Vineyards 2015 Merlot Walla Walla Valley $34 88 points
This 100% varietal wine comes primarily from Stonemarker Vineyard. Its aromas intrigue, recalling black cherry candy, dark flowers, sage, mint, anise and barrel spices. The palate is smooth and polished but trails on the finish. It’s a unique offering of the variety.

Foundry Vineyards 2015 Petit Verdot Walla Walla Valley $36 87 points
This wine from Summit View Vineyard has aromas that are brooding out of the gate, including high-toned notes of anise, black cherry candy, exotic spice and dried black fruit. It’s light to medium bodied and trails off on the finish.

Foundry Vineyards 2015 Syrah Walla Walla Valley $34 88 points
This blend of fruit from Cougar Crest, Cougar Hills and Rock Bottom vineyards offers exuberant blueberry pie, herb, orange peel, flower and smoked meat aromas. They’re followed by soft, pillowy fruit flavors that are more restrained than the nose suggests.

Gård 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Lawrence Estate Wines Lawrence Vineyards Columbia Valley $35 88 points
This wine is lighter in color than the norm for this variety. It brings aromas of whole green pepper, olive, black cherry and exotic spice. The palate shows a lighter styling, with a pretty sense of balance between the fruit and herb flavors. It’s all about sophistication.

Gård 2015 Reverence Columbia Valley $50 92 points
This wine is a blend of 49% Syrah, 38% Grenache and a whopping 13% Viognier, with the latter expressing itself on both the aromas and palate. The wine pops, with notes of freshly peeled orange, stargazer lilly, gravel, olive, smoked meat, blueberry and boysenberry. Soft and sumptuous, the palate shows a lot of elegance and expression along with an extended finish. Editor’s Choice

Goose Ridge 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon g3 Estate Bottled Columbia Valley $15 84 points
This wine shows prominent volatile acidity, which overpowers its red apple, cherry and baking spice aromas. The palate has lightly styled, smooth-feeling plum flavors backed by astringent tannins.

Goose Ridge 2015 Merlot g3 Estate Bottled Columbia Valley $15 86 points
Plum, baking spice and licorice aromas lead to lightly styled fruit flavors in this wine. The wood influence seems quite intense, distracting from the fruit.

Gorman 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon The Bully Red Mountain $50 91 points
Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of char, dark chocolate, vanilla and toast in front of black fruit. The flavors are rich and full bodied, supported by a firm structure of tannins. The oak influence is primary. Give it some time to integrate.

Gorman 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Scratch Red Mountain $28 88 points
This wine is aromatic, with notes of vanilla, plum, cherry and dark coffee. Flavors are big, bold and ripe, delivering hedonistic appeal that carries through the finish.

Gorman 2015 GSM Old Scratch Columbia Valley $25 88 points
This wine is 90% Syrah, with the balance Grenache (8%) and Mourvèdre. The aromas are reserved initially, with notes of blueberry pie, dark-roasted coffee and raspberry. The palate is surprisingly light for the aromas (and producer), with the finish seeming attenuated. The oak also comes off as a bit heavy.

Gorman 2015 Red Blend The Devil You Don’t Know Columbia Valley $28 92 points
Though not labeled as such, this could be a varietal Syrah (76%), with the balance Grenache (18%) and Mourvèdre. The aromas offer notes of dark-roasted coffee bean, smoke, orange peel, toast and huckleberry pie. The blue-fruit flavors are bold and full, delivering a mouthful of enjoyment that keeps you coming back for more. Editor’s Choice

Gorman 2015 Syrah The Pixie Red Mountain $45 88 points
The aromas are generous, with notes of char, tangerine peel, café au lait, spice and blue and black fruit. The palate is medium bodied, dipping in the middle, with a lightly creamy feel. Smoked-meat flavors persist on the finish.

Gorman 2015 Syrah-Cabernet Sauvignon The Evil Twin Red Mountain $65 91 points
This wine is a 65-35 blend of these two varieties. Aromas of fresh and dried herb, black cherry, licorice, orange peel and blue fruit are followed by plump, textured blue and black-fruit flavors. The appeal is as much about feel as flavor.

Gorman 2015 The Devil You Know Columbia Valley $28 91 points
This wine is a blend of Merlot (44%), Cabernet Sauvignon (34%), Malbec (17%), Cabernet Franc (3%) and Petit Verdot. Aromas are brooding, with notes of cocoa, bittersweet chocolate, cherry, herb and spice. The dark-fruit flavors are full bodied, rich and saturated, packing a hefty punch with a finish that sails. Editor’s Choice

Gramercy 2015 Grenache The Third Man Columbia Valley $36 92 points
This wine is three-quarters Grenache, balanced by Syrah (15%), Mourvèdre (5%) and Carignan. Lighter in color with a reddish tinge, dried and fresh herb, raspberry, plum, dried orange-peel, smoked-meat and mineral aromas are at the fore, bringing a delightful sense of purity. The palate is all about delicacy of the red-fruit flavors, showing a reserved styling. An extended juicy finish caps it off.

Gramercy 2015 Mourvèdre L’Idiot du Village Columbia Valley $42 92 points
A mixture of Olsen and Alder Ridge vineyards, this lighter-colored wine is brooding on first pour, with aromas of fresh parsley, crushed flower, dried herb, mineral, orange peel, smoked meat and raspberry emerging over time. The palate shows a fresh light styling, with a meaty peppery finish. It’s a very pretty expression of the variety, with an impressive sense of balance and sophistication. Editor’s Choice

Gramercy 2015 Syrah John Lewis Walla Walla Valley $85 93 points
All Les Collines Vineyard from blocks 36 and 46 with 100% whole cluster, the aromas stop you in your tracks, with notes of freshly chopped parsley, cured meat, potpourri, olive, violet and crushed rock. The palate is full of light tart herb and smoked-meat flavors backed by hefty tannins that need a good bit of time to resolve. It brings a sense of freshness and vibrancy, needing significant time in the cellar to be fully appreciated. Best from 2026–2031. Cellar Selection

Gramercy 2015 Syrah The Deuce Walla Walla Valley $54 92 points
A blend of fruit from Forgotten Hills and Les Collines using 85% whole cluster, the aromas leap up, with notes of fresh parsley, plum, heaping amounts of fresh and dried herb, violet and cured meat showing a lot of nuance. The smoked-meat and red-fruit flavors are reserved in style, bringing a strong sense of tannic structure that needs time to fully settle in. Best after 2022.

Gravel Bar 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $20 86 pointsBlack raspberry, plum, herb, tart, mesquite and cherry aromas are followed by lightly smoky flavors that seem out of place. It doesn’t all come together.

Gravel Bar 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $46 86 points
The aromas bring notes of mesquite and fruit leather, seeming a bit dried out, with the palate showing more of the same. It doesn’t all work.

Gravel Bar 2015 Alluvial Columbia Valley $20 86 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (35%), Merlot (30%), Cabernet Franc (15%), Malbec and Petit Verdot make up this wine. Aromas of ripe black currant, cigar box, dried herb and black cherry are followed by lightly sweet, smoky fruit flavors. It brings a tacky feel.

Guardian 2015 Cabernet Franc Newsprint Columbia Valley $21 88 points
Light aromas of apple, red fruit and spice lead to a medium-bodied palate with red and black-fruit flavors. The tannins bring a fair amount of grittiness, providing distraction.

Guardian 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Newsprint Red Mountain $25 87 points
The aromas are incredibly light—barely a whisper. The cherry and plum flavors, meanwhile, are more giving but it still doesn’t seem to show enough expression, especially surprising considering the appellation and producer.

Guardian 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon The Rookie Red Mountain $49 85 points
This is a blend of fruit from the Obelisco and Klipsun vineyards. Band-Aid, dried black-cherry, game and medicine-cabinet aromas are followed by light, dried-out-seeming dark-fruit flavors. It doesn’t all come together.

Guardian 2015 Malbec Newsprint Columbia Valley $18 87 points
The aromas bring notes of apple, hay, medicine cabinet, pepper and game. The flavors are plush in feel, seeming ever so slightly dried out. Still, it brings some appeal.

Guardian 2015 Petite Sirah Newsprint Columbia Valley $21 87 points
Brooding aromas of purple fruit, apple and spice are followed by brawny dark fruit flavors. The tannins bring a firm squeeze.

Guardian 2015 Red Blend Newsprint Columbia Valley $18 87 points
Cabernet makes up 65% of this wine, with the balance Syrah. Quite green out of the gate, it displays not entirely harmonious aromas of green herb, orange peel and black cherry—seeming to show a bit of oxidation. The cherry and cranberry flavors are medium bodied, finishing tart.

Guardian 2015 Syrah The Informant Wahluke Slope $32 87 points
Hailing from Stonetree Vineyard, the aromas show notes of raspberry, blueberry, spice and a light medicinal note. The palate mixes rich dark-fruit and medicine-cabinet flavors.

Guardian 2015 Gun Metal Columbia Valley $42 88 points
This wine is a blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 48% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. Aromas of green, leafy herb, coffee, cherry, dried tobacco and black licorice are followed by chocolate, cherry, tobacco and herb flavors. It comes off as pretty green.

Guardian 2015 The Wanted Columbia Valley $42 86 points
Cabernet Franc (43%) takes the lead, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (43%) and Petit Verdot with the fruit sourced from the Klipsun and Stonetree Vineyards. Aromas of red and black cherry, dried herb, game, leather and medicine cabinet are followed by a palate full of gamy flavors, supported by grainy-feeling tannins.

Gunpowder Creek 2015 Cabernet Franc Caleb Foster The Greatest Hits Phinny Hill Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $55 91 points
This is a new project from longtime Washington winemaker Caleb Foster. There’s no mistaking the variety, with its notes of garden herb in front of cherry and flower. The flavors are elegant, pure and supple, with a long finish. Editor’s Choice

Gunpowder Creek 2015 Cabernet Franc Caleb Foster The Greatest Hits Conner Lee Vineyard Columbia Valley $55 90 points
This is a new project from longtime Washington winemaker Caleb Foster. Aromas of fresh herb, sliced green pepper, flower, orange peel and cherry are followed by soft sumptuous pure cherry flavors. The finish carries. Editor’s Choice

Hawkins Cellars 2015 Syrah Boushey Vineyard Columbia Valley $40 84 points
Brown stem, wilted flower, cigar ash and barrel spice aromas lead to short, dried-out fruit flavors in this wine.

Hedges 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $40 90 points
Aromas of herb, coffee bean, vanilla, blackberry and graphite lead to a restrained palate of well-balanced fruit and barrel flavors. The tannins give a light squeeze. It’s a spot on example of the variety.

Hedges 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon La Haute Cuvée Red Mountain $65 88 points
100% Cabernet Sauvignon all biodynamically grown, the aromas offer notes of dried tobacco, barrel spice, medicine cabinet and dried cherry. The palate brings a sense of elegance and refinement, with enough tannic structure to reward time in the cellar.

Hedges 2015 Red Blend CMS Columbia Valley $14 85 points
Merlot (65%) makes up most of this wine, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (27%) and Syrah. Pale in color, aromas of raspberry, Muscat gummy candy and rubber band and lead to quite light fruit flavors, with the tannins giving a slightly astringent feel.

Hors Categorie 2015 Syrah Hors Catégorie Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $240 96 points
The domaine and vineyard name mean “without category” and it is no doubt apt. The aromas draw you into the glass, with compelling notes of ember, black and green olive tapenade, blackberry bush, flower, ham hock, broken rock and smoke. The palate is full, rich and layered, showing an impeccable sense of balance and structure that carries through the extremely long (60-second), salty, meaty, smoky flavorful, tampenade-filled finish. It’s a knee buckler, showing a sense of power, structure and sophistication, while retaining its grace. A profound wine, with a long life in front of it. Best from 2025 to 2034. Cellar Selection

Horsepower 2015 Grenache Sur Echalas Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $120 97 points
The aromas are haunting, with notes of white and black pepper, peat, potpourri, green olive, orange blossom, grilled asparagus and smoked meat. The palate shows incredible texture and detail but the story here is truly the finish – a full minute-plus investment worth every thrilling moment. It’s hard to tell exactly when it stops. A complete mind and palate-bending stunner – one of the defining wines of the vintage. Best from 2020 to 2030. Cellar Selection

Horsepower 2015 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $120 96 points
The aromas are exultant, with notes of fire pit, ham hock, green olive, mineral, peat, soot, sea breeze, steak tartare, coffee bean and potpourri, showing additional complexities on each swirl. The palate is full of intensely rich yet still vibrant savory flavors, with abundant peppery tones. The olive and fire-pit finish easily lingers for a minute, if not beyond. It’s completely outrageous. Editor’s Choice

Horsepower 2015 Syrah Sur Echalas Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $120 96 points
The aromas provide brooding notes of brown stem, soot, freshly ground black pepper, wet rock, tar, grilled asparagus and smoked ham. The flavors are intense and wound up, showing layer upon layer of fruit and savory flavors. A supremely long – 60-second – savory and floral finish caps it off. It’s a complete wow wine. Best from 2026-2032. Tasted twice with consistent notes. Cellar Selection

House of Independent Producers 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon HIP La Modé Columbia Valley $20 87 points
This wine brings a sense of reduction out of the gate, which lessens over time. Brooding black and dark-blue fruit aromas are followed by easy-drinking fruit flavors, with the tannins bringing some grip. The midpalate seems a bit lacking, but overall, it delivers enjoyment, more so if the reduction blows off.

Intrinsic 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $22 90 points
This is a one-of-a-kind wine in the state, with 50% of the wine fermented on skins for nine months and the rest aged in concrete and older oak. Pure red- and blue-fruit aromas are followed by bold fruit flavors and well-integrated tannins, without a trace of oak in sight. It’s a completely unique interpretation of the variety, but most importantly, it’s delicious.

J & J 2015 Malbec Summit View/Les Collines Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $29 88 points
Aromas lean into the green, with notes of savory garden herb along with dark raspberry and plum. The plum flavors are plump with a lightly scratchy feel to the tannins. There’s intrigue but it seems a bit underripe and leafy.

J & J 2015 Syrah Summit View Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $30 87 points
This vineyard sits high on the ridge crest of the SeVein project in the southern end of the valley. Aromas of herb, green tea and purple fruit are followed by tart, plump fruit flavors backed by tacky-feeling tannins.

J. Bookwalter 2015 Cabernet Franc Suspense Conner Lee Vineyard Columbia Valley $60 90 points
Aromas of herb, freshly sliced green pepper, cherry and spice lead to plush and sweet plum flavors, speckled with dark-chocolate accents throughout. It brings an impeccable sense of balance along with an appealing texture. Might be a little green for some tastes.

J. Bookwalter 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Volume 5 Columbia Valley $75 92 points
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine hails from the esteemed Dionysus Vineyard. Reserved aromas of fresh herbs, coffee, bittersweet chocolate, cherries, raspberries and plums are followed by plentiful dark fruit and chocolate flavors. It’s all about subtlety and nuance, with enough structure to go the distance.

J. Bookwalter 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Protagonist Conner-Lee Vineyard Columbia Valley $60 91 points
This brings roasted coffee bean, char, leafy green herb, spice and cherry aromas, and the oak (75% new French) plays a prominent part in the show. The palate is rich, textured and supple, with plentiful black cherry and barrel flavors that linger on the finish. It hits the gong hard, feeling totally hedonistic.

J. Bookwalter 2015 Merlot Readers Columbia Valley $28 90 points
Most of the fruit for this wine comes from a block of Conner-Lee Vineyard planted in 1992. Somewhat light in color, it offers appealing raspberry, chocolate, dried herb and spice aromas and soft, supple fruit flavors, with light savory herb accents from the addition of 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Juicy fruit flavors linger on the finish. It shows lovely balance and texture.

J. Bookwalter 2015 Red Blend Chapter 8 Conner-Lee Vineyard Columbia Valley $100 92 points
This blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah comes primarily from a block of the vineyard planted in 1988. Its aromas are focused, recalling char, toast, high-toned herbs, roasted coffee and cherries. The palate is rich, dense and structured, with a lovely texture. The oak is quite prominent at present. Give it some time to integrate.

J. Bookwalter 2015 Conflict Conner-Lee Vineyard Columbia Valley $60 92 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 47% of this wine, with the balance 45% Merlot and 8% Malbec. Its nuanced cherry, dark coffee, herb, vanilla and spice aromas are followed by palate-coating fruit and barrel flavors that feel seamless. Coffee notes linger on the finish.

J. Scott Cellars 2015 Cabernet Franc Walla Walla Valley (OR) $35 88 points
This wine’s aromas are upfront, with green pepper, jalapeño and herb notes. The palate is full of dark cherry and herb flavors that show pleasing balance. It’s not for all tastes but is sure to please those who enjoy this variety’s greener side.

Januik 2015 Cabernet Franc Weinbau Vineyard Wahluke Slope $35 88 points
Aromas of vanilla, cocoa, baking spice, anise and cherry are followed by well-proportioned fruit and barrel flavors. The oak plays a very large part in the show.

Januik 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Champoux Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $55 92 points
Coming from the state’s premier Cabernet vineyard, brooding aromas of black cherry, ripe black currant, black coffee and toasty spices lead to well-balanced, layered dark-fruit flavors with expertly integrated tannins. It shows a beautiful sense of polish as well as great length. Editor’s Choice

Januik 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Weinbau Vineyard Wahluke Slope $40 90 points
The aromas offer notes of cocoa, herb, cherry, pencil lead, vanilla and spice. The black-fruit flavors are rich but show a pleasing sense of balance.

Januik 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $30 89 points
Blackberry, earth, black licorice and sweet spice aromas are followed by rich fruit and barrel flavors. It seems ever so slightly dried out.

Januik 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain $45 89 points
Effusive aromas of black raspberry, cherry, earth, vanilla and black licorice lead to supple, elegantly styled red and black-fruit flavors that seem ever so slightly dried out. It’s an intriguing offering of the variety.

Januik 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $40 89 points
The aromas are high toned, with notes of black cherry, blackberry, vanilla and barrel spice. The black-fruit flavors are rich, painting a bit around the edges. It shows a sense of sophistication.

Januik 2015 Malbec Champoux Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $40 90 points
There’s no mistaking the variety, with its aromas of dark plum, fresh herb, clove and toasty barrel spices. Fruit flavors coat the palate, bringing a lovely sense of depth and texture. Best by 2022.

Januik 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $25 90 points
Baking-spice, dried dill, cedar box, vanilla and red-fruit aromas lead to soft textured rich raspberry flavors backed by grainy tannins. It’s a no-holds- barred interpretation of the variety.

Januik 2015 Merlot Klipsun Vineyard Red Mountain $35 90 points
Aromas of dark raspberry, pencil lead and baking spice are followed by focused well-balanced red-fruit flavors that persist on the finish. It’s an impressive offering of the variety.

Januik 2015 Merlot Champoux Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $40 89 points
This wine starts out ever so slightly reduced, opening to reveal aromas of raspberry, berry, vanilla and spice. The palate mixes fruit and barrel, showing a pretty sense of texture. Vanilla notes linger on the finish.

Januik 2015 Syrah Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain $35 90 points
Coming from one of the state’s most esteemed sites, aromas of berry, smoke, mineral, blue fruit and bacon fat lead to well-proportioned fruit flavors. The finish carries.

Januik 2015 Reserve Columbia Valley $65 90 points
This wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (90%) along with a dash of other Bordeaux varieties. Aromas of baking spice, coffee, blackberry and dried herb lead to elegantly styled but still rich black-fruit flavors. It’s a very pretty wine, especially considering the warmth of the vintage.

JM Cellars 2015 Carmenère Margaret’s Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $55 91 points
This 100% varietal wine leads with appealing blue fruit, herb, jalapeño, toast and spice aromas followed by soft, supple fruit and barrel flavors. It’s a very enjoyable expression of this often green variety.

Joleté 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Summit View Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $30 87 points
This leads with herb, vanilla and plum aromas, along with a reduced note of tire rubber. On the palate, sweet plum flavors are backed by gritty tannins, proving somewhat disjointed.

K Vintners 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah The Creator Powerline Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $55 90 points
This wine is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Syrah from the winery’s young estate vineyard. Tobacco, green-herb, green-pepper, cherry, mineral and funk aromas are followed by quite elegant, supple juicy fruit flavors that lead to a lingering finish. The texture heightens the appeal.

K Vintners 2015 Grenache The Boy Powerline Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $50 91 points
Fermented 100% whole cluster from the winery’s young estate vineyard, the aromas bring notes of brown stem, dried tobacco, green herb, flower and raspberry. The flavors are light but juicy with a long lingering finish. The stem influence is very primary at present. Give it time in bottle or a long decant to let it settle in.

K Vintners 2015 Malbec Broncho Stoneridge Vineyard Washington $70 90 points
Fruit for this wine comes from the Royal Slope. The aromas pop, with notes of freshly peeled orange and tangerine along with fresh herb and piercingly pure plum. The palate is all about lightness and delicacy, with plentiful orange-peel flavors. It’s a fascinating, lighter-styled offering on the variety, though it might be a bit too elegant for some tastes.

K Vintners 2015 Syrah MCK Washington $35 92 points
Though labeled as Washington State, all of the fruit from this wine comes from Oldfield Vineyard in the Yakima Valley, next to famed Boushey Vineyard. The aromas are brooding on first pour, with notes of berry, fresh herb, orange peel, ground rock, bacon fat and smoke. The palate is full of seamless fruit and savory flavors. The tannins give a firm squeeze. Give it a decant if opening in the near term.

K Vintners 2015 Tempranillo El Jefe Stoneridge Vineyard Washington $55 90 points
The aromas are high toned, with notes of raspberry, earth, spice and mineral. The palate is lighter styled, with the concentration not entirely holding throughout. An impressively long finish caps it off. Still, there are a lot of good things going on.

Keira 2015 Revere Red Mountain $44 86 points
This blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 10% Malbec brings green pepper, plum, fresh herb, raspberry, dried tobacco and olive aromas. The flavors are soft in style, with lightly astringent tannins and a short finish.

Kerloo 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Calling Club Columbia Valley $48 91 points
This 100% varietal wine is a blend of fruit from top sites Klipsun (60%) and Dioynsus. Baking spice, herb, cocoa, tobacco, espresso and cherry aromas lead to suave, silky cherry and cocoa flavors. Like the vintage it came from, it holds nothing back. The oak (65% new French) is a bit up front at present but should integrate with additional time in bottle. Best after 2020.

Kerloo 2015 Red Blend No Joke Stone Tree Vineyard Wahluke Slope $40 91 points
This wine is 71% Malbec and 29% Cabernet Sauvignon. High-toned aromas of dried herb, cherry, tobacco, plum and barrel spice lead to pillowy soft, dazzlingly textured, mouthwatering fruit flavors. It’s a big-time winner. Editor’s Choice

Kerloo 2015 Syrah Limited Release Upland Vineyard Snipes Mountain $40 93 points
Vineyard-designated wines from this appellation are rare, and this wine shows the promise of this site. There’s no mistaking the variety, with its enchanting aromas of fragrant flower, smoked meat, chopped parsley, green olive and purple fruit. Flavors are supremely fresh and bright, showing a mixture of fruit and savory, with assorted herb notes intertwined throughout. An extended finish, filled with notes of olive, caps it off. It’s beautiful on its own but should sing at the dinner table. Give it time to open up. Editor’s Choice

Kerloo 2015 Syrah Blue Mountain Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $20 90 points
This wine is expressive, with aromas of violet, herb and purple fruit. The palate is lighter styled and tart, delivering a bit more tannic heft than this variety often shows. Give it some time to open up.

Kerloo 2015 Majestic Columbia Valley $36 92 points
Grenache (69%) takes the lead on this wine, followed by Mourvèdre (26%) and a pinch of Syrah. Aged in neutral French oak, it offers aromas that aren’t yet ready to reveal their charms on first pour. Notes of spice, herb and black pepper evolve into smoked meat and raspberry accents over time. The palate is swoon-worthy, with soft, supple fruit and savory flavors that lead to a persistent finish. The sense of purity dazzles. Editor’s Choice

Kevin White 2015 Syrah En Hommage Yakima Valley $28 93 points
This wine is 100% Syrah from Boushey, Olsen and Elephant Mountain vineyards. Alluring aromas of herb, blackberry, bramble, green olive, flower and smoked meat lead to a richly flavored palate that explodes with abundant savory, meaty flavors. It drinks like a charcuterie plate, with plenty of fresh herbs rounding it out. Editor’s Choice

Kevin White 2015 Pionnier Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $35 94 points
This blend of 90% Grenache, 5% Syrah and 5% Mourvèdre is a new offering from the winery. Lighter in color, the aromas are arresting, with notes of orange peel, raspberry, green olive, mineral, fresh chopped parsley, white pepper, herb, potpourri and whiffs of smoked meat. There’s a compelling sense of purity to the flavors and feel of the raspberry, cherry and meat notes along with a crazy-long orange peel, meat and raspberry-filled finish. It’s a complete knee buckler, all about delicacy. Best after 2022. Cellar Selection

Kevin White 2015 La Fraternite Yakima Valley $28 93 points
Coming from Upland and Boushey vineyards, this wine is 60% Grenache, 33% Mourvèdre and 7% Syrah. Expressive aromas of fresh blackberry, huckleberry, black pepper, smoked meat and herb are followed by penetratingly pure dark fruit flavors that are rich but still bring a sense of freshness. The purity is dazzling as is the length on the finish. Editor’s Choice

Kevin White 2015 DuBrul Vineyard Yakima Valley $40 92 points
Coming from one of the state’s top vineyards, this wine is a blend of Merlot (52%) and Cabernet Sauvignon. The aromas pop, with achingly pure notes of raspberry, assorted dried herb, pie cherry, blueberry and spice. The palate shows finesse and grace, with silky fruit flavors and velvety tannins, with savory notes on a finish that won’t quit. It’s a flat-out gorgeous, exquisitely understated interpretation of this vineyard. Editor’s Choice

Kevin White 2015 Yakima Valley $18 92 points
A blend of 44% Syrah, 31% Grenache and 25 Mourvèdre, this wine is aromatically very pure, with plenty of red and blue fruit, speckled with bay leaf, herb and black-pepper accents. It possesses a thrilling plush mouthfeel, with olive and black-fruit flavors, showing a fine sense of purity. Editor’s Choice

Kiona 2015 Lemberger Estate Bottled Red Mountain $15 88 points
Cigar box, cherry, orange zest and spice aromas lead to elegant, fresh flavors. With its blue fruit-laced finish, it brings a whole lot of appeal, especially for the price.

Kiona 2015 Malbec Heart of the Hill Vineyard Red Mountain $40 87 points
Exotic spice and dried fruit aromas are followed by plump, ripe fruit flavors in this wine. It’s enjoyable but seems a bit evolved for its age.

Kiona 2015 Merlot Estate Grown Red Mountain $25 88 points
This wine offers ground cranberry, red currant, dried herb and golden raisin aromas. The flavors are surprisingly elegant, considering the warmth of the vintage and region; they taper toward the finish.

Kirkland Signature 2015 Red Blend Signature Series Columbia Valley $17 89 points
This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Sangiovese initially distracts with reductive aromas, but bright plum, cherry and spice notes follow. The flavors are plush, with light, grippy tannins. A great value that goes down easy.

Kitzke 2015 Barrel Select Field Blend Candy Ridge Vineyard Columbia Valley $65 88 points
This wine blends Cabernet Sauvignon (41%), Cabernet Franc, (28%), Malbec (28%) and Petit Verdot. Smoke, woodspice and cedar aromas are in front of fresh-chopped herb, green pepper and black raspberry, with green-olive notes lurking in the background. The palate is light but juicy, with coffee and cherry flavors that bring a slight sense of astringency. Citric acidity lingers on the finish.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $30 89 points
There’s much to love on the aromas, with notes of toast, cocoa, cherry and spice. The palate shows a pleasing interplay between the fruit and acidity. It needs some food to truly be appreciated. It should shine alongside a juicy steak.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $40 87 points
This 100% varietal wine is a blend of fruit from Ferguson, Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills vineyards. The aromas are hard to tease out initially, with notes of blackberry, mineral and spice emerging over time. The palate brings abundant dry tannins that give a strong squeeze. Lively acidity backs it all up. There are good things going on if the tannins integrate.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Merlot Estate Walla Walla Valley $37 88 points
This wine is half from Ferguson Vineyard with the other half from Seven Hills. The aromas are light and high toned, with notes of red cherry, mocha, dark chocolate and spice. The flavors are medium bodied, with tart acidity and quite firm tannins that need some time to soften.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $25 88 points
This is a true pan-Washington Merlot, with fruit coming from nine vineyards across the state. Blended with a good whack of Cabernet Franc (13%) which reveals itself, baking-spice, plum, raspberry and herb aromas are followed by soft ripe fruit flavors, with the tannins pulled back. Herb and raspberry notes linger on the tart finish.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Red Blend Frenchtown Columbia Valley $23 88 points
Principally Merlot (45%), Cabernet Sauvignon (25%) and Syrah (19%), along with other red varieties, this brings apple, cherry and barrel spice aromas. The flavors are full bodied and liquorous, providing some appeal.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $25 90 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Seven Hills, Candy Mountain, Summit View, Bacchus and Stone Tree vineyards. Aromas of raspberry and blackberry jam are followed by ripe rich fruit flavors and a warm finish. There’s no mistaking the warm vintage that it comes from.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Syrah Estate Grown Seven Hills Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $37 90 points
Aromas of raspberry jam, huckleberry and generous spice accents lead to full-bodied fruit flavors backed by soft tannins. It’s a rich, ripe charmer.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Estate Grown Ferguson Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $65 93 points
This winery’s young estate vineyard is proving itself to be a special spot. This is a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 7% Malbec. The brooding aromas of dark cherry, cassis, fresh and dried herb, incense, luxurious oak spices (50% new French), mineral, pencil lead, flower and scorched earth lead to a flavorful but exceptionally well-balanced palate that shows sophistication. The tannins are highly structured but also bring a sense of polish. It has the stuffing to go the distance but needs significant time to settle in. Best from 2028–2034. Cellar Selection

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Perigee Seven Hills Vineyard Estate Grown Walla Walla Valley $55 91 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up 56% of this blend, with the balance Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. It’s locked up on first pour, with notes of barrel spice, dark chocolate, graphite, cassis, green herb and purple flower. The palate brings abundant cherry flavors backed by brawny, slightly astringent tannins. It shows a lot more tannic heft than this vineyard is often known for, needing significant time to settle in. Best after 2024.

L’Ecole No. 41 2015 Apogee Pepper Bridge Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $55 90 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) is in the lead, followed by Merlot (25%), Malbec (10%) and Cabernet Franc. The aromas are redolent with notes of black currant, black raspberry, black licorice, fresh herb and spice. The palate is tightly wound, with layers of dark-fruit flavors, with slightly dry tannins bringing a grip on the finish. The tannins seem a bit unresolved at present.

La Rata 2015 Red Blend Walla Walla Valley (OR) $75 95 points
Made by Cayuse assistant vigneronne Elizabeth Bourcier, this wine is a blend of 54% Grenache, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah—the only one of its kind in the appellation. The aromas leap up, with notes of earthy funk, campfire, moist earth, sea salt, cherry, peat and crushed rock. The raspberry and earth flavors are light and juicy, showing a lot of delicacy as well as depth and detail. Tobacco and raspberry notes linger on the insanely long finish that opens up, broadens, expands and sails with grace. Editor’s Choice

Lady Hill 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $35 90 points
A blend of fruit from Slide Mountain and Red Willow vineyards, this wine is lighter in color. Seeing just 30% new French oak, the aromas bring notes of red and black fruit, moist earth, fresh herb, flower and raspberry. The palate shows elegant yet rich red and black-fruit flavors that deliver a sense of sophistication.

Laelaps 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Seven Hills Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $45 89 points
Appealing aromas of fresh herb, dried thyme, raspberry and cherry are followed by plump, lightly styled fruit flavors. Grainy tannins provide support. Give it some time to open up.

Laelaps 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon The Rocks The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater $50 88 points
This light colored wine leads with red apple skin, herb and spice aromas and follows with surprisingly tart red fruit flavors that dip a bit in the middle. The tannins seem a bit grainy. It’s an interesting expression of the variety from this up-and-coming region.

Latah Creek 2015 Carmenère Fries Vineyard Wahluke Slope $18 86 points
Listed at an alcohol level almost unheard of in modern days for a red wine in Washington, the aromas pop in notes of vanilla and other wood spice, with poblano and white pepper. The cranberry and barrel flavors tussle a bit on the palate, not seeming in harmony.

Leonetti Cellar 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $100 92 points
Blended with 12% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc, this sophisticated wine shows its pedigree, with cocoa, anise, black tea, mint, black cherry, dried herb, bittersweet chocolate and flower aromas. The fruit seems ever so slightly dried out, with surprisingly restrained flavors, considering the warmth of the vintage, and a tight core of tannin that needs time to unwind. Red and black fruit flavors linger effortlessly on the finish. Best after 2025. Cellar Selection

Leonetti Cellar 2015 Merlot Walla Walla Valley $75 91 points
A blend of Loess Vineyard and Leonetti Old Block, this wine is 100% varietal. The aromas are bright and pure, with notes of raspberry, cherry, plum, anise and spice. The flavors deliver, with a sense of understated appeal.

Leonetti Cellar 2015 Sangiovese Walla Walla Valley $70 90 points
Blended with 13% Aglianico, this wine hails from Serra Pedace, Seven Hills, Loess and Mill Creek Upland vineyards. Its light sour cherry, anise, cigar box and spice aromas lead to tart fruit flavors with lightly grainy tannins and a long finish. All about subtlety, it needs food alongside it to fully deliver.

Leonetti Cellar 2015 Reserve Walla Walla Valley $150 93 points
This blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Malbec and 8% Merlot comes from Loess, Mill Creek Upland and Seven Hills vineyards. Its aromas are still locked up, offering incense, barrel spice, cherry, raspberry, anise and scorched earth notes as it opens. The palate is packed to the brim with black fruit flavors and tightly wound tannins, maintaining its sophistication long into the finish. It needs time to come into its own but has a very long life ahead of it. Best 2026–2033. Cellar Selection

Les Trouvés 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $25 92 points
Mourvèdre and Syrah each make up 40% of this blend, with the balance Grenache. The aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of garrigue, black pepper and blackberry. The palate is dense and ripe, pulling no punches but delivering a whole lot of hedonistic appeal. The value can’t be beat. Editor’s Choice

Lone Birch 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $13 88 points
Dark berry, herb and blue-fruit aromas lead to silky fruit flavors. The tannins bring a slightly sticky feel to the finish. Best Buy

Lone Birch 2015 Red Blend Yakima Valley $13 86 points
A blend of six different varieties with Merlot and Syrah taking the lead, this wine brings aromas of toast, matchstick and cherry. The flavors are luscious and full, backed by lightly tacky tannins.

Long 2015 Petit Verdot Scooteney Flats Vineyard Red Mountain $28 87 points
From an up-and-coming vineyard, this exudes light green herb, macerated cherry, violet, citrus and barrel spice aromas. On the palate, full, slightly green dark fruit flavors are backed by tart acidity. The tannins are a touch dry, but there’s promise here.

Longship 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Wise Man Horse Heaven Hills $38 87 points
Strong char, toast and barrel aromas are at the fore, getting way out in front of the fruit. The fruit flavors are tart and considerably more elegant than the aromas might suggest. There seems to be a bit of disconnect between the two.

Longship 2015 Red Blend Quinn Columbia Valley $36 87 points
This wine is a unique blend of 61% Tempranillo, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Grenache. Aromas of coffee grounds, toast, spice and dark fruit are up front, with the oak playing a primary role. The palate mixes fruit and barrel, with the fruit concentration seeming a bit light.

Longship 2015 Syrah Ginger Man Walla Walla Valley $32 87 points
The barrel aromas are far out front, with notes of vanilla extract, dill and wood spice. The oak shows heavily on the palate as well, making it nearly impossible to get at the fruit and giving the wine a gritty feel.

Longship 2015 Tempranillo Invader Horse Heaven Hills $30 88 points
This wine’s vanilla and herb aromas are high toned. The palate brings abundant fruit and barrel flavors, with lively acidity providing the frame. The tannins seem a little coarse at present. Give them some time to settle.

Love That Red 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Seattle Slew Columbia Valley $32 89 points
Char, toast and dark chocolate barrel aromas are out front, with herb and cherry lurking underneath. Full bodied fruit and barrel flavors. The wood influence is heavy but there’s enough fruit to largely stand up to it.

Love That Red 2015 Grenache Fillies & Mares Riviere Galets Vineyard The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater $50 87 points
The aromas in this wine aren’t entirely harmonious, with high-toned herb, spice and mineral notes. The palate, however, brings plenty of intrigue, with velvety-soft, mouth-coating red fruit flavors and savory herbal hints that linger on the finish. Unfortunately, the two don’t sync up.

Love That Red 2015 Red Blend Daily Double Red Blend Columbia Valley $36 88 points
Garden herb, spice and cherry aromas lead to plum and herb flavors that trail on the finish. It doesn’t all hang together.

Love That Red 2015 Syrah Dead Heat Columbia Valley $32 91 points
A blend of Olsen Vineyard in the Yakima Valley and Clifton Hill on the Wahluke Slope, the aromas are generous, with notes of dark plum, smoke and baking spice. The palate is weighty and full, with palate-coating purple-fruit flavors that show pleasing depth, density and length.

Love That Red 2015 Syrah Stakes Race Columbia Valley $36 88 points
This wine, which includes 17% Grenache, is a blend of fruit from Les Collines, Discovery and Riviere Galets vineyards. Smoked meat, dried herb and baking-spice aromas are followed by red-fruit flavors that display a sense of elegance.

Luke 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Wahluke Slope $25 86 points
The volatiles are amped up here, providing some aromatic distraction. The palate brings high-octane fruit flavors, supported by lightly dry tannins. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

March 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $34 87 points
The aromas are light, with notes of red apple, barrel spice, vanilla and cherry. The flavors are medium bodied, showing a mixture of fruit and barrel. There’s interest to be had but it all seems a bit subdued and the finish a bit clipped.

March 2015 Petit Verdot Walla Walla Valley $32 88 points
Offerings of this variety are rare in the state and even more so from this valley. The aromas of cocoa, herb and cherry are all high toned, showing a touch of volatility. The cherry flavors are full, bold and tightly wound with tannin.

Mark Ryan 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Lonely Heart Red Mountain $95 92 points
This is 100% varietal. The fruit for this wine hails from Obelisco, Klipsun and Olsen vineyards. Almost completely closed up on first pour, it opens to reveal aromas of the blackest of cherry, crème de cassis, graphite, fresh herb and luxurious barrel spicing (88% new French). The flavors are rich and ripe but still reserved, showing a very appealing sense of balance, with the tannins combed to a fine sheen. An impressively long finish caps it off. It should have a long life ahead of it.

Mark Ryan 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Dead Horse Red Mountain $58 91 points
A blend of fruit from Quintessence, Ciel du Cheval, Klipsun and Obelisco vineyards, the aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of luxurious barrel spice, black-cherry meats, high-cacao chocolate, blackberry, high-toned herb, crème de cassis, dried earth, coffee and graphite. The palate is loaded with sweet cherry flavors that display a slightly linear styling at first, fleshing out a bit over time.

Mark Ryan 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Vines Columbia Valley $65 90 points
This is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Klipsun, Ciel du Cheval, Red Willow and Phinney Hill vineyards, The aromas are high toned on first pour, with the notes of cherry, spice, pencil lead and bay leaf not quite ready to reveal their charms but showing nuance over time. The flavors are tart and dry, showing a classic styling along with fine-grained tannins. It needs a few years in the cellar to settle in and stretch out.

Mark Ryan 2015 Merlot Little Sister Columbia Valley $75 88 points
This is a new offering from the winery. Almost all varietal with just a splash of Cabernet Franc (3%) coming from Quintessence and Red Willow vineyards, the aromas of toast, spice, cedar, black raspberry and dried herb aren’t entirely revealing. The palate seems a bit linear and wound up. Perhaps some time will flesh it out?

Mark Ryan 2015 Syrah Wild Eyed Red Mountain $48 91 points
Mostly coming from Angela’s and Ciel du Cheval Vineyard along with a dash of Olsen, the aromas exude notes of spice, orange peel, flower, olive, iron and huckleberry. The palate is chock-full of raspberry and blue-fruit flavors that persist on the finish. It’s a delicious ripe interpretation of this variety.

Mark Ryan 2015 Long Haul Columbia Valley $55 91 points
This wine is mostly Merlot (84%), with the balance smidgens of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. With fruit coming from Quintessence, Red Willow, Ciel du Cheval, Klipsun and Olsen vineyards, the aromas leap up, with notes of toast, raspberry, earth, coffee bean, bittersweet chocolate and spice that show a lot of detail. The cherry and coffee flavors are polished and seamless in feel, lingering on the finish.

Mark Ryan 2015 Water Witch Red Mountain $58 91 points
With all of the fruit coming from Quintessence Vineyard from vines planted in 2012 for the winery, this blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. The aromas start out high toned, with notes of generous barrel spice, assorted herb, black currant, graphite, scorched earth, cocoa and dark plum. The flavors are reserved in style, broadening over time, showing a lot of sophistication.

Mark Ryan 2015 The Dissident Columbia Valley $38 90 points
This wine is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Coming from top quality vineyards, the aromas are exuberant, with notes of blackberry, bittersweet chocolate and toast along with dried herb and luxurious barrel accents. The black-fruit flavors coat the palate, showing depth and intensity along with a firm tannic spine.

Marshall Davis 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Seven Hills Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $36 85 points
Vanilla, tire rubber, char and cherry aromas are followed by ripe black fruit flavors with a lightly tacky feel. The tannins give a squeeze. It finishes warm.

Marshall Davis 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $29 88 points
This shows exuberant boysenberry, violet, herb, smoked meat and peppery spice aromas, along with a slightly distracting tire rubber note. The palate is packed tightly with rich flavors that carry through the fruit-filled finish. If the tire rubber aromas resolve, it will greatly improve.

Maryhill 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Proprietor’s Reserve Columbia Valley $40 86 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from the Tudor, McKinley Springs and Clifton Hill vineyards. Aromas of maple sugar candy, boysenberry, fresh herb and barrel spice are followed by a mild concentration of fruit flavors.

Maryhill 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $26 85 points
Aromas of raspberry and dried cherry lead to tacky-feeling fruit flavors. The variety seems hard to place.

Maryhill 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Otis Vineyard Reserve Yakima Valley $40 84 points
The aromas bring notes of mint, dried cherry, orange peel, cranberry and spice, all seeming a bit dried out. The fruit flavors are light and bunched up.

Maryhill 2015 Grenache Proprietor’s Reserve Columbia Valley $36 87 points
This light colored wine brings tire rubber, potpourri, raspberry and spice aromas. The palate is soft in feel—full of red fruit flavors that seem a bit hot.

Maryhill 2015 Red Blend Winemaker’s Columbia Valley $16 86 points
This wine’s smoke, seaweed, black pepper, orange peel and purple fruit aromas pop. The palate features easy-drinking fruit flavors, with gritty tannins to back them up.

Maryhill 2015 Red Blend Tavolo Rosso Columbia Valley $32 86 points
Sangiovese makes up three quarters of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon. Tire rubber, cherry, armpit and spice aromas lead to lighter styled, straightforward fruit flavors. It doesn’t all come together.

Maryhill 2015 Syrah Proprietor’s Reserve Columbia Valley $38 87 points
Raspberry jam, slightly candied fruit and barrel spice aromas are followed by ripe, luscious fruit flavors. The tannins bring a bit of grit on an otherwise enjoyable offering.

Maryhill 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $36 85 points
This is straight-down-the-fairway Syrah, with berry, cocoa and spice aromas and flavors. It’s not very complex but enjoyable all the same.

Maryhill 2015 Serendipity Proprietor’s Reserve Columbia Valley $36 85 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up just over half of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Dried herb, graphite and cherry candy aromas are followed by somewhat woody seeming, straightforward fruit flavors.

Matthews 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $57 87 points
Aromas of anise, dried cherry and cedar are followed by a lightly styled palate with medicinal accents. The tannins seem a bit bunched up.

Matthews 2015 Claret Columbia Valley $37 87 points
This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (45%), Merlot (26%), Cabernet Franc (21%), Malbec (4%) and Petit Verdot. The aromas offer high-toned notes of green herb, cherry, anise and char. The palate shows a light linear styling, not seeming to have the fruit or structure to entirely hold it all together.

MCM Wine Co. 2015 Syrah Spectaculuxe Columbia Valley $25 87 points
This is mostly Ranch at the End of the Road and Arianses Vineyard fruit, along with dashes from Stone Tree and Marsala. Aromas of fresh flower and orange peel are in the lead, with the Viognier (6%) showing itself strongly. Blueberry pie aromas follow. The palate is interesting, with a lot of bass notes but seeming to be missing in the middle and top.

MCM Wine Co. 2015 Majestica Columbia Valley $25 82 points
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this wine starts out quite aromatically reduced out of the gate, along with notes of plum, herb, orange rind and cranberry. The flavors paint around the edges with gritty tannins filling the middle.

Mercer 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $20 88 points
This wine’s plum, red apple, vanilla and spice aromas lead to a plump, fruit-forward palate. The tannins bring a lightly gritty feel, but there’s still much to enjoy.

Mercer 2015 Malbec Horse Heaven Hills $20 87 points
Aromas of vanilla, baking spice and plum are followed by ripe but quite light cherry flavors. The tannins bring a slight sense of astringency that seems at odds with the variety.

Mercer 2015 Merlot Horse Heaven Hills $20 87 points
The aromas are high toned, with notes of wood spice, dried herb and tire rubber, not seeming very varietal. The palate is ripe with plum and barrel flavors that paint around the edges. Mocha notes linger on the finish.

Merry Cellars 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $40 86 points
Aromas of currant, dark plum, herb and spice are followed by light elegant fruit flavors, with the extraction pulled back. It finishes with strangely tart cranberry flavors that distract.

Merry Cellars 2015 Petit Verdot Columbia Valley $38 89 points
Most of the fruit for this wine comes from Stillwater Creek Vineyard and saw no new oak. Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, dried herb and barrel spice lead to a full-bodied palate with a big blast of acidity and firm, slightly dry tannins. It needs some food alongside it to help tame it but brings appeal.

Merry Cellars 2015 Syrah Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $42 86 points
The aromas are high toned, with notes of spice, smoke, black licorice and dark fruit. The black-fruit flavors are more restrained in style than the listed alcohol might suggest, showing a soft texture, with bitters on the finish.

Merry Cellars 2015 Crimson Columbia Valley $32 86 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (39%) and Merlot (28%) make up the majority of this wine, with the rest equal parts Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. With all of the fruit coming from Stillwater Creek, the aromas bring notes of cherry, plum, cedar, herb and spice. The flavors are ripe and full in feel, sweet with a slightly tart, bitter finish.

Mullan Road 2015 Columbia Valley $45 88 points
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the aromas bring notes of baking spice, dill, vanilla and cherry. The fruit flavors are lighter styled, dipping in the middle before coming back together. A light grip of tannin backs it up.

Muret-Gaston 2015 Petit Verdot Olsen Vineyard Yakima Valley $42 89 points
This wine’s appealing plum, barrel spice, smoke and fresh herb aromas lead to well balanced black fruit flavors supported by lively acidity. It’s quite enjoyable and should shine with steak.

Muret-Gaston 2015 Syrah Edythe Mae Vineyard Yakima Valley $42 91 points
This wine’s mountain blueberry, huckleberry and flint aromas leap out of the glass. Its blue fruit flavors are rich, saturated and hedonistic. It’s unabashed in its appeal.

Nelms Road 2015 Washington $25 89 points
Merlot (53%) makes up the majority of this wine, followed by Cabernet Franc (31%), with the balance being other Bordeaux varieties. It shows whiffs of reduction out of the gate which are followed by aromas of blackberry and spice. The palate brings a mouthful of black-fruit flavors backed by lightly dry grainy tannins. Black and purple-fruit flavors persist on the finish.

Nine Hats 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $20 88 points
This wine is 50% Syrah, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and 2% Malbec. The aromas pop, with notes of blackberry, blueberry, smoked meat and herb. The fruit flavors are lush, backed by tannins that bring quite a bit of grit to them. Perhaps some additional time in the bottle will soften them out.

No Girls 2015 Grenache La Paciencia Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $75 94 points
Lighter in color, the aromas pop, with notes of sea breeze, dried nori, flower, wet stone, peat, white pepper and strawberry, showing a lot of complexity. The palate is elegant but intensely flavorful. A smoked meat finish carries as long as you care to count, kicking it up a notch.

No Girls 2015 Syrah La Paciencia Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $75 92 points
A bit lighter in color, the aromas offer notes of earthy funk, blackberry, wet stone, blood and smoke – not quite seeming fully ready to reveal their charms on first pour. Fruit and savory flavors coat the palate, showing a sense of elegance, energy and freshness.

No Girls 2015 Tempranillo Walla Walla Valley (OR) $75 92 points
This is an up-and-coming variety in the Rocks District sub-region of the valley. The aromas are generous, with notes of moist earth, tobacco, cherry and dried herb. The flavors are elegant in style, showing a sense of texture and grace. The finish kicks it up a notch.

North by Northwest 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $15 88 points
This wine is a blend of Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. The aromas pop, with notes of raspberry, plum, herb and spice. The palate brings a mixture of fruit and savory flavors, with the tannins bringing a lightly tacky feel. There’s much to enjoy.

Northstar 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $40 91 points
Brooding aromas of dark fruit, char and spice are followed by velvety bittersweet chocolate, cherry and mocha flavors that linger on the persistent finish. The enjoyment is as much about feel as flavor.

Northstar 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $55 90 points
The aromas offer notes of blackberry, cherry, toast and spice. Lighter in style, there’s a pleasing interplay between fruit and barrel on the palate. Cocoa and coffee notes linger on the finish.

Northstar 2015 Merlot Premier Columbia Valley $85 88 points
The aromas offer notes of raspberry, spice, red apple and herb, not seeming entirely settled. The flavors are lighter in style, with a slightly stewed feel.

Northstar 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $41 88 points
Somewhat lighter in color for the variety, aromas of fresh herb, flower, tire rubber, mocha and cherry are followed by lighter-styled fruit flavors. The tannins bring a slightly gritty feel.

Northstar 2015 Red Blend Walla Walla Valley $50 88 points
Merlot makes up 55% of this wine, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon. Coming from the Anna Marie and Spring Valley vineyards, aromas of huckleberry, herb and spice lead to soft well-balanced blue-fruit flavors that persist on the finish. It shows a sense of elegance for such a warm vintage.

Novelty Hill 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $26 89 points
The aromas start out brooding, with notes of vanilla, cherry, graphite blackberry and plentiful herb. Black-fruit flavors coat the palate, with the tannins still needing time to settle in.

Novelty Hill 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $30 89 points
High-toned aromas of raspberry, cherry, dried herb and baking spice lead to light but well-balanced red and black-fruit flavors with a lightly tacky feel. Oak accents abound.

Novelty Hill 2015 Grenache Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $28 88 points
Aromas of cranberry, raspberry, vanilla and baking spice lead to concentrated flavors that show a mixture of fruit and barrel. There are good things going on but the oak seems quite heavy handed, overrunning the variety.

Novelty Hill 2015 Malbec Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $28 88 points
Barrel aromas are at the fore, with notes of char, coffee and wood spice in front of dark plum. The palate shows a pleasing sense of weight, texture and length. There are good things going on but the oak seems primary.

Novelty Hill 2015 Merlot Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $28 89 points
The aromas are not yet ready to reveal their charms, with notes of barrel spice, dried dill and red fruit. The cranberry, raspberry and barrel flavors, meanwhile, show generosity and plushness. The barrel influence seems a bit heavy.

Novelty Hill 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $23 88 points
Cocoa, vanilla and red-fruit aromas are followed by supple, rich fruit and barrel flavors. The barrel influence seems primary but there are good things going on.

Novelty Hill 2015 Syrah Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $28 88 points
Light aromas of dried flower, cherry and baking spice are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors. It brings a sense of sophistication.

Novelty Hill 2015 Cascadia Columbia Valley $50 90 points
This wine is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and 7% Malbec. The aromas leap up, with notes of mountain blueberry, black raspberry and spice. The palate shows a lot of restraint, with lithe fruit flavors, speckled with barrel spices.

Owen Roe 2015 Cabernet Franc Rosa Mystica Yakima Valley $28 90 points
This wine’s soil, black cherry, herb and spice aromas are followed by elegantly styled fruit flavors that show pretty balance. Despite the warmth of the vintage, this one is all about elegance.

Owen Roe 2015 Merlot DuBrul Vineyard Yakima Valley $55 90 points
Red fruit aromas are at the fore in this wine, with pleasing raspberry and Red Vines notes, along with spice accents. The palate shows remarkable restraint, refinement and balance considering the warmth of the vintage, and its firm tannic core should allow it to evolve nicely for a few years in the cellar.

Owen Roe 2015 Syrah Ex Umbris Yakima Valley $21 88 points
Nuanced aromas of red fruit, herb, smoked meat and spice are followed by a full-flavored palate that seems tart, almost sour at times. Some rough edges still need to be rounded out but this wine has good stuffing.

Pacific Crest 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon McNary Vineyard Columbia Valley $19 86 points
Piercing green aromas are far out front, distracting from the notes of cherry and herb. The cherry flavors seem a bit attenuated.

Palencia 2015 Grenache Yakima Valley $36 87 points
Fruit for this wine hails from Canyon Vineyard Ranch. Aromas of baking spice, vanilla extract and raspberry are followed by lighter-styled elegant fruit flavors, with abundant vanilla accents. There are good things going on, but the wood gets in the way, taking over on the palate.

Palencia 2015 Mourvèdre Yakima Valley $36 87 points
Extremely pale in color with an orange rim, the aromas offer notes of café au lait, spice, herb, vanilla and cherry, along with whiffs of tire rubber. The palate brings a sense of elegance, though the concentration doesn’t seem all there. The wood also seems a bit intense.

Palencia 2015 Pinot Noir Ancient Lakes $36 89 points
Pale in color, this wine offers bright aromas of potpourri and strawberry. The red-fruit flavors are full in feel, seeming overweighted at times but still bringing enjoyment, with a mouthwatering finish.

Palencia 2015 Syrah Yakima Valley $36 89 points
This wine hails from Minnick Vineyard. Lighter in color, the aromas offer notes of cranberry, vanilla and baking spice. There’s a lovely sense of balance, elegance and texture on the palate, with fruit and barrel sharing the stage.

Palencia 2015 Casa Amarilla Yakima Valley $36 87 points
Grenache (60%) takes the lead on this wine, followed by Syrah (30%) and Mourvèdre. Lighter in color with an orange tinge at the rim, the aromas suggest notes of raspberry, cranberry, rose hips and vanilla bean. There’s a lovely sense of feel but the oak seems a bit intense.

Pambrun 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley (OR) $70 90 points
This is the first release from a new winery from Willamette Valley Vineyards that will be located on the Oregon side of Walla Walla Valley. The aromas bring a sense of purity, with notes of black currant, raspberry, plum and fresh tobacco. The palate offers a sense of delicacy and restraint. There’s structure here but it relies less on overt tannins than most Cabernets. It’s a unique offering of the variety.

Pambrun 2015 Merlot Walla Walla Valley (OR) $60 89 points
One of the inaugural releases from this winery, it is a blend of fruit from Seven Hills and Summit View vineyards. The aromas are fruit forward and fascinate, with notes of plum, raspberry and Twizzler. The palate is soft, showing an almost Pinot-esque feel. It’s equal parts intrigue and delivery, a unique offering of the variety.

Pambrun 2015 Chrysologue Walla Walla Valley (OR) $65 89 points
This inaugural release is a blend of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Cabernet Franc and 17% Merlot, with the fruit coming from Seven Hills, Summit View and Waliser vineyards. Seeing just 35% new French oak, the emphasis is squarely on the fruit. Aromas of raspberry jam, blueberry compote, black currant and spice give way to fruit flavors that show elegance, delicacy and length. It’s a pretty take on these varieties and the valley.

Pamplin 2015 Red I.Q. Columbia Valley $14 88 points
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot make up the majority of this wine, which is finished with Malbec. It’s all from high quality vineyards, including Seven Hills, Alder Ridge and Discovery. Blue fruit, herb and spice aromas are followed by red and blue fruit flavors that hollow out on the midpalate. Still, there’s plenty of enjoyment to be had.

Passing Time 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $80 94 points
This wine contains mostly Cabernet Sauvignon from Discovery and Champoux vineyards, with pinches of Klipsun Merlot (8%) and Champoux Cabernet Franc (4%). Its black currant, cassis, blackberry, graphite, scorched earth and herb notes intoxicate. The palate is ripe, textured, layered and generous but still tightly wound, with polished tannins and an extremely long finish. It is a Cabernet Sauvignon prototype—a complete standout that is delicious now but will have a long life in the cellar. Best from 2023–2035. Cellar Selection

Passing Time 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $80 93 points
Almost entirely Klipsun Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon , this includes 3% Bacchus Vineyard Cabernet Franc. The aromas are effusive, with red and black raspberry, scorched earth, blackberry bramble, espresso, herb, green pepper and spice notes, revealing more on each swirl. The palate is suave and sophisticated, showing compelling texture and structure. The finish sails. Though delicious now, patience will be rewarded. Best 2025–2032, but it will have plenty of life beyond that. Cellar Selection

Passing Time 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $80 92 points
This 100% varietal wine blends fruit from Seven Hills and Pepper Bridge vineyards. The aromas draw you into the glass, recalling mocha, black cherries, fresh herbs and high toned spices. The palate is supple, refined and polished, with lightly grainy tannins lending support. It’s a very pretty expression of the variety that should have a long life ahead of it.

Passing Time 2015 Columbia Valley $50 91 points
Though labeled simply as a red wine, this is almost all Cabernet Sauvignon, with just a pinch of 8% Merlot to round it out. The aromas are effusive, suggesting black cherry, black licorice, incense, graphite and spice. The palate is polished and reserved, showing lovely balance and light, grippy tannins.

Pedestal 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $65 92 points
High-toned exotic spice, dark raspberry and barrel aromas are followed by focused, supremely rich fruit flavors that lead to a warm finish. Firm tannins provide support. For those who question if Merlot can be a serious wine, this is your answer.

Pendulum 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $17 88 points
Cocoa, raspberry and dark-chocolate aromas are followed by chocolaty barrel flavors that persist on the finish. There’s enjoyment to be had but the oak seems a bit out front.

Pendulum 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $17 87 points
This blend of Petit Verdot (28%), Malbec (27%), Syrah (20%), Cabernet Sauvignon (16%) and Merlot (9%) leads with wild blueberry, crushed flower, herb, vanilla and spice aromas. Soft, elegant blueberry flavors follow, persisting on the finish. Light on the midpalate, it still brings appeal.

Pepper Bridge 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Vineyards Walla Walla Valley $NA 90 points
This blend from Seven Hills (56%), Octave (24%), Pepper Bridge (14%) and Yellow Jacket Vineyards offers coffee bean, toast, fresh herb, flower, orange peel, blackberry and black cherry aromas followed by well-balanced fruit and barrel flavors that stretch out on the finish. The tannins bring some grip. Best after 2022.

Pepper Bridge 2015 Merlot Estate Vineyards Walla Walla Valley $50 88 points
This blend from Seven Hills, Pepper Bridge and Octave vineyards brings distinctive raspberry, cedar, orange zest, black cherry, plum, flower and spice notes. This is supported by firm tannins that need time to soften.

Pepper Bridge 2015 Seven Hills Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $60 88 points
This wine is a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot. Its mocha, black cherry, flower, toast and spice aromas are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors. The tannins bring a fair amount of grit, which is unusual for this site.

Pirouette 2015 Columbia Valley $60 92 points
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (65%), Merlot (21%), Petit Verdot (11%) and Malbec. The aromas are locked up on first pour, with notes of black cherry, cassis, cocoa, black currant, raspberry and high-toned barrel spice. The palate brings lithe fruit flavors, with firm lightly grippy tannins that need time to soften. It has all the stuffing but needs time in the cellar to come into its own. Best after 2025.

Proper 2015 Syrah Estate Walla Walla Valley $48 93 points
Coming from the Rocks District, this offers expressive aromas of potpourri, fresh chopped parsley, orange peel, green olive, smoked meat, fresh flower and wet stone. These lead to plush, palate-coating fruit and savory flavors. Olive and charcuterie notes linger on the finish. Editor’s Choice

Puget Purveyors 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Washington $25 88 points
High-toned aromas of dried herb, cherry liqueur, red apple and baking spice are followed by full-bodied generous dark-fruit flavors. Grainy tannins provide support. It finishes a bit green and gritty.

Purple Star 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $20 88 points
This wine’s aromas pop, evoking leafy garden herb and black cherry. It’s pleasing in style, weight and balance. A bit too herbal for some tastes, but appealing nonetheless.

Quilceda Creek 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $200 96 points
This hails from Champoux, Lake Wallula, Palengat and Wallula Gap Vineyards. The aromas draw you into the glass, evoking anise, blackberry, black raspberry, graphite and exotic spices. The flavors show intense depth, richness and hedonism, and the finish seems endless. Best from 2029–2036. Cellar Selection

Raconteur 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $15 90 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (70%) takes the lead here, with the balance in Syrah. The aromas fascinate, evoking gun smoke, spice, Bing cherry, black currant, dried herb and fresh flowers, with the oak influence dialed way back. The flavors show dazzling purity and richness, along with a grip of tannins and a meaty, smoke-laced finish. It’s a whole lot of wine in a nearly oak-free style rarely seen from the state at this price point. Best Buy

Ram 2015 Cabernet Franc Alder Ridge Vineyard Columbia Valley $25 86 points
Aromas of green herb, baking spice, nori, licorice and black cherry are followed by tart dark-fruit flavors that seem bunched up. It falls off on the finish, displaying a light medicinal note.

Rasa 2015 Cabernet Franc QED Axiom of Choice Columbia Valley $38 92 points
This 100% Cabernet Franc bottling hails from Weinbau and Firethorn vineyards, both located in the Columbia Valley. It leads with bay leaf, tobacco, hickory, bittersweet chocolate and anise aromas. A palate that holds nothing back follows: big, bold dark fruit flavors supported by chewy tannins. An absolute delight.

Rasa 2015 Grenache Primus Inter Pares Monette’s Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $60 91 points
Lighter in color, the aromas from this Rocks District wine are delicate, with notes of raspberry, kirsch, herb, rose petal and smoke. The flavors meanwhile are plump and generous, bringing a real sense of purity and restraint due to the neutral French oak aging. The extended finish shows a touch of warmth.

Rasa 2015 Tilting at Windmills XL Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $75 92 points
This wine is a unique blend of Grenache (63%), Syrah (19%) and Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of raspberry, garigue, blueberry and herb give way to palate-coating red and blue-fruit flavors that persist on the finish. It shows a lovely sense of balance, poise and polish.

Reininger 2015 Syrah Walla Walla Valley $51 88 points
This wine’s aromas are outrageously vibrant, suggesting freshly peeled orange, potpourri, flower and boysenberry jam. The flavors are sweet and full, with the floral notes completely taking over the show.

Rio Vista 2015 Malbec Columbia Valley $36 86 points
Hailing from Antoine Creek Vineyard, the aromas of herb, cherry and spice seem to show some oxidation. Meanwhile, the medium-bodied cherry and raspberry flavors are straight down the fairway, providing enjoyment if not a lot of complexity.

Rio Vista 2015 Merlot Estate Grown and Bottled Columbia Valley $32 88 points
The aromas are fruit forward, with notes of cherry, plum, herb, raspberry and wood spice. The flavors are rich, sappy and full, backed by soft tannins. Barrel notes linger on the finish.

Rio Vista 2015 Pinot Noir Columbia Valley $42 85 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Antoine Creek and Gingko Forest vineyards. Quite light in color, the aromas show a light volatility, along with notes of raspberry, strawberry and maraschino cherry. The fruit flavors are light, simple and sweet, finishing with peppermint notes.

Rio Vista 2015 Tempranillo Wahluke Slope $34 86 points
Coming from Rosebud Vineyard, the aromas show a bit of oxidation along with a touch of volatility. It’s a shame as the palate is full of luscious rich fruit flavors that provide a lot of enjoyment. Vanilla notes linger on the finish.

Ross Andrew 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon The Huntsman Columbia Valley $15 86 points
Black-currant, dark-plum and herb aromas are in the lead. The flavors are on the lighter side, with the oak seeming quite dialed back.

Rôtie Cellars 2015 Northern Blend Walla Walla Valley $48 92 points
With 94% Syrah and 6% Viognier and coming from the Rocks District, this wine brings aromatically expressive aromas of green olive, fresh violet, sea salt, black pepper, orange peel and earthy funk. The palate is soft and silky in feel, showing an appealing sense of balance and restraint. It delivers a sense of elegance.

Rôtie Cellars 2015 Southern Blend Washington $48 88 points
This wine is 70% Grenache with the rest equal parts Mourvèdre and Syrah. Aromas of olive, earth, orange peel, black pepper and flower are followed by full-bodied red and black-fruit flavors. It shows intrigue but doesn’t quite come together.

Roza Ridge 2015 Malbec Rattlesnake Hills $20 86 points
This wine brings unusual aromas of freshly chopped parsley, orange twist, plum and hickory smoke. The palate is light, fresh and tart, bringing a sense of elegance. Floral notes linger on the finish.

Roza Ridge 2015 Petit Verdot Rattlesnake Hills $20 85 points
The aromas are quite green in tones of savory herbs and green flowers in front of cherry and spice. The palate brings a big blast of acidity that carries through the finish.

Roza Ridge 2015 Zinfandel Rattlesnake Hills $23 82 points
The aromas bring notes of vanilla, cherry cough syrup and spice. The sweet fruit and spice flavors show a lot of warmth.

Ryan Patrick 2015 Red Blend Redhead Red Columbia Valley $15 87 points
Aroma of freshly cut red apple, raspberry and cherry are followed by sweet jammy red and black-fruit flavors. It goes down easily.

Sagelands 2015 Red Blend Riverbed Columbia Valley $10 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up two-thirds of this wine, with the balance Malbec and Syrah. Vibrant aromas of plum, spice and herb are followed by plush, lightly sweet, palate-coating fruit flavors backed by grainy tannins. It finishes sweet, delivering plenty of easy-drinking appeal. Best Buy

Saggi 2015 Red Blend Columbia Valley $55 88 points
This wine starts out a bit reduced, with aromas of tire rubber, char and pencil eraser in front of cherry, flower, raspberry and herb. The flavors are sleek in style, with firm, not fully resolved tannins backing it all up.

Savage Grace 2015 Cabernet Franc Copeland Vineyard Rattlesnake Hills $28 91 points
Light in color, this wine offers very pretty aromas of flowers, raspberries and rhubarb. The flavors are primary and appealing, showing a lot of elegance and restraint with a drawn-out finish. It shows no apparent new oak influence, giving a dazzling sense of purity. Editor’s Choice

Savage Grace 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Willow Vineyard Yakima Valley $35 87 points
Coming from one of the state’s premier vineyards, this wine is 100% varietal and saw just a kiss (10%) of new oak. Aromas of green herb, tobacco, anise, flower and blackberry lead to pure supple sweet fruit flavors. It’s an intriguing offering of the variety, almost completely unadulterated by new oak.

Savage Grace 2015 Merlot Celilo Vineyard Columbia Gorge $38 91 points
This is a true unicorn wine—an almost never seen variety from this vineyard where the vines were subsequently removed after this vintage. Starting out slightly reduced, it opens to reveal aromas of macerated cranberry, black raspberry and red currant. The flavors are concentrated and rich, showing a sense of layering. It’s quite ripe for the winery’s style but delicious all the same, showing a sense of purity given to the neutral oak aging.

Savage Grace 2015 Syrah Underwood Mountain Vineyards Columbia Gorge $35 92 points
This wine hails from an up-and-coming appellation and one of the few dry-farmed vineyards in the state. Nuanced aromas of white pepper, dried flower, herb and lemon zest provide direct appeal. It’s light, tart and elegant on the palate, showing a mesmerizing sense of purity and restraint. Editor’s Choice

Saviah 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $30 88 points
A blend of fruit from McClellan, Seven Hills, Dugger Creek and Anna Marie vineyards, the aromas are locked up out of the gate, with notes of asphalt, blackberry, mineral, dried herb and spice. The palate brings a big ball of fruit and tobacco flavors, concentrated around the center and tapering off quite a bit at the edges.

Saviah 2015 Red Blend The Jack Columbia Valley $18 89 points
Merlot makes up just over three-quarters of this blend, with the balance Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese and Petit Verdot. Bright aromas of cherry pie, blueberry, herb, plum and earth are followed by smooth polished blue-fruit flavors. It’s a complete delight, focusing on elegance.

Saviah 2015 Syrah Funk Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $60 92 points
Coming from the winery’s estate vineyard in the Rocks and blended with 5% Viognier, the aromas start out subdued for the region, opening up over time to reveal notes of orange peel, flower, blue fruit, black pepper, wet stone and light barrel spices. The palate brings a sense of depth and purity, with olive notes and orange peel on the extended finish. Best by 2022.

Saviah 2015 Syrah Walla Walla Valley $32 91 points
Fruit is at the fore, with notes of mountain blueberry and blackberry along with fresh herb and spice. The palate brings a lovely sense of elegance, texture and richness. Coffee notes linger on the finish.

Saviah 2015 Syrah The Jack Columbia Valley $18 90 points
Aromas of blue fruit, green herb, funk and savory notes lead to sweet, luscious blue-fruit and smoked-meat flavors that linger effortlessly on the finish. The sense of balance and length are rare for a wine at this price. Editor’s Choice

Saviah 2015 Une Vallee Walla Walla Valley $35 88 points
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (65%), Merlot (24%) and Cabernet Franc. There’s some reduction out of the gate. Smoke, tar, blackberry, blueberry and earth aromas and flavors follow, with a warm finish. There’s an appealing sense of texture and a length finish, but it seems a bit unsettled now.

Sequel 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $60 90 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Boushey, Den Hoed, Bacchus, Sonnet and Candy Mountain vineyards. The Boushey contribution (32%) shows itself, with aromas of bacon fat, char, orange peel and iron in front of barrel spice (65% new French), boysenberry and blackberry. The fruit flavors are pitch black, with plenty of oak and meat accents that lead to a warm finish. The tannins seem unresolved and the oak is a bit heavy handed, but there are still good things going on.

Seven Falls 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Wahluke Slope $23 88 pointsAromas of cocoa, baking spice, vanilla and cherry lead to full-feeling blackberry and black-cherry flavors. The tannins bring a lightly grainy feel.

Seven Falls 2015 Red Blend Rapids Wahluke Slope $18 87 points
This wine is principally Merlot and Syrah, along with a dash of Cinsault. The aromas are high toned out of the gate, with red fruit, vanilla, plum and spice notes. The palate is soft and elegant in style, with a spice-filled finish. It’s a straightforward, easy drinker.

Seven Hills 2015 Cabernet Franc Walla Walla Valley $35 89 pointsBaking spice, fresh herb, vanilla, whole green-pepper, cherry-cordial and barrel aromas lead to very pretty fruit flavors. The tannins seem a little grippy at present.

Seven Hills 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon McClellan Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $50 89 points
The aromas deliver notes of green pepper, parsley, barrel spice, cherry cordial, fresh herb and anise. The palate brings an assortment of plush red and black-fruit flavors, with slightly dry tannins on the finish. It’s quite well made but it comes off as a little green and astringent at present.

Seven Hills 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Seven Hills Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $50 88 points
Aromas of anise, Fruit Roll-Ups and medicine cabinet are followed by pitch-black fruit flavors. The tannins bring a sense of astringency—a surprise from this typically supple site. It all seems a bit dried out.

Seven Hills 2015 Malbec McClellan Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $35 88 points
The aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of plum, blackberry, spice and herb. The flavors bring a sense of purity with a tart finish.

Seven Hills 2015 Merlot Seven Hills Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $45 86 points
Graphite, high-toned cherry, vanilla and herb aromas lead to somewhat elegantly styled fruit flavors. The tannins bring a bit of grip.

Seven Hills 2015 Petit Verdot McClellan Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $35 90 points
Aromas of barrel spice, licorice, fresh herb, coriander and cherry are followed by tightly wound tannins backed by bright acidity. It needs food alongside it to be fully appreciated but it’s pretty delicious.

Seven Hills 2015 Pentad Walla Walla Valley $75 89 points
A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Carmenère, Malbec and Cabernet Franc, the aromas are very pretty, with notes of blackberry, anise, fresh garden herb, cherry and baking spice. There’s a lovely sense of texture to the black-cherry and licorice flavors.

Seven Hills 2015 Walla Walla Valley $35 88 points
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. A bit lighter in color, the aromas are high toned, with notes of dried currant, dried herb and barrel spice. It’s lighter in style with the tannins seeming a bit gritty and bunched up at present.

Seven Hills 2015 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain $55 88 points
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot from one of the state’s top vineyard sites. Aromas of dried cherry, anise and blackberry Fruit Roll-Ups are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors. The tannins give a firm, slightly dry grip. It seems dried out for its age.

Sharecropper’s 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $16 89 points
Black and purple fruit, toast, herb and spice aromas lead to abundant cherry flavors, tart acids and well-integrated tannins. Overall, this wine shows a lovely sense of balance, with a fleshy midpalate piquing the interest.

Sheridan Vineyard 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley $30 89 points
Aromas of baking spice, orange peel and green herb are followed by well-balanced fruit and savory flavors. There’s no mistaking the variety or the region that it comes from. It’s a distinctive wine but not for all tastes.

Sightglass 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon-Malbec Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $33 90 points
An equal split between the two varieties, this brings lurking dark roasted coffee, herb, plum, dark fruit and spice aromas. Its blue fruit flavors are tightly wound; they dip in the middle before coming back together, surrounded by luxurious French oak spice notes. The wood seems a bit primary at present, but there are a lot of good things going on.

Sin Banderas 2015 Yakima Valley $32 89 points
This inaugural release from this winery is a blend of 80% Syrah and 20% Mourvèdre. Its raspberry, bacon fat, blueberry, black pepper and smoke aromas lead to well-balanced fruit and savory flavors. Give it time to open up.

Skyfall 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $14 87 points
This wine is quite blue-fruited aromatically for a Cabernet. This continues on the palate, with boysenberry flavors backed by lightly grainy tannins. It provides interest, but you’d never peg it for Cabernet Sauvignon.

Sleight of Hand 2015 Grenache-Syrah Sorceress Columbia Valley $45 89 points
The Grenache (60%) comes from Upland Vineyard with the Syrah from Les Collines. The aromas are unusual, with notes of peanut shell, dried and fresh tobacco, flower, green olive, cherry and herb. The palate brings more of the same, delivering a sense of heft along with sweet fruit flavors on the finish. It’s an unusual wine. Not for all tastes.

Sleight of Hand 2015 Syrah Psychedelic Stoney Vine Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $60 94 points
Somewhat lighter in color, this wine has expressive aromas, with notes of cigar box, green and black olive, fresh parsley, funk, grilled asparagus, wet stone, ember, black pepper, prosciutto and fresh herb, leaning hard into the savory. The palate shimmers with intensity, packed with sleek but rich, incredibly flavorful flower, earth and smoked-meat notes that persist on the ultralong olive and smoked-meat filled finish. It’s a stunner. Editor’s Choice

Sleight of Hand 2015 Syrah Levitation Columbia Valley $45 89 points
Lewis Vineyard makes up the majority of this wine (70%), with the rest coming from Les Collines. The aromas seem locked up on first pour, with notes of ripe raspberry, flower and dried herb. The palate is more generous, with soft lush fruit flavors and silky tannins. It finishes warm.

Sleight of Hand 2015 The Spellbinder Columbia Valley $20 89 points
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of sweet blue fruit, herb and spice are followed by plump, plush plum flavors that go down easy. It brings a sense of deliciousness.

Sleight of Hand 2015 The Conjurer Columbia Valley $28 88 points
This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (63%), Cabernet Franc (28%), Merlot (8%) and Petit Verdot coming largely from Red Mountain and Phinny Hill vineyards. Aromas are vibrant, with notes of plum, char, red apple, cherry, blueberry, green herb and spice. The appealing blue-fruit flavors are lighter in style.

Snoqualmie 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon ECO Columbia Valley $13 85 points
The aromas on this wine are surprisingly blue fruited for a Cabernet, followed by notes of herb, green pepper and spice. The flavors are lightly sweet, followed by a spice-filled finish. It’s a straightforward quaffer that doesn’t quite show its variety.

Snoqualmie 2015 Red Blend Whistle Stop Columbia Valley $10 85 points
Aromas of pickling and baking spice along with plum are followed by a plush palate that mixes equal parts fruit and barrel. A vanilla marks the finish of this straightforward quaffer. Best Buy

Snoqualmie 2015 Syrah Yakima Valley $10 86 points
This wine’s bright blueberry syrup, boysenberry and vanilla aromas lead to soft, plump, easy-drinking blue fruit flavors that persist on the finish. Best Buy

Sparkman 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Rainmaker Yakima Valley $62 90 points
A blend of fruit from Olsen and Kiona vineyards, brooding dried herb, black cherry and spice aromas are followed by a supple, flavorful palate, bursting with cherry, cedar and plum notes that extend on the finish. This one is all about subtlety and sophistication and it brings both in abundance.

Sparkman 2015 Grenache Wonderland Yakima Valley $32 90 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Boushey, Olsen and Sagemoor vineyards. Light in color, the aromas bring vibrant notes of stemmy herb, smoked meat and raspberry. It’s light and elegant in style, with pillowy fruit flavors that linger on the finish. It shows a sense of delicacy.

Sparkman 2015 Malbec Preposterous Red Mountain $38 88 points
A blend of fruit from Klipsun and Angela’s vineyards aged in 17% new French oak, cherry, black raspberry, baking spice, anise and dark fruit aromas are followed by focused dark-fruit flavors with a citrusy finish. The tannins give a gentle squeeze.

Sparkman 2015 Red Blend Wilderness Columbia Valley $25 88 points
This wine is a unique blend of 62% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 11% Grenache, 7% Petite Sirah, 5% Souzao and 1%Touriga Nacional. Appealing aromas of blackberry, plum, flower, crushed nut and spice lead to full-bodied fruit and barrel flavors that persist on the finish.

Sparkman 2015 Syrah Darkness Yakima Valley $62 89 points
The aromas seem a bit understated on first pour, with notes of jammy raspberry and plum along with whiffs of iron. The fruit flavors are full bodied and rich, with tannins that at times don’t seem fully resolved. It doesn’t all come off, but it still keeps you coming back for more.

Spring Valley Vineyard 2015 Cabernet Franc Katherine Corkrum Estate Grown Walla Walla Valley $50 91 points
This is 100% varietal and aged in just a kiss (30%) new French oak. The aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of fresh herb, sliced green pepper, flower and cherry, showing a sense of sophistication. The cherry and herb flavors show elegance but also texture, depth and detail along with a lingering finish. It’s a very pretty, spot-on example of the variety. Editor’s Choice

Spring Valley Vineyard 2015 Syrah Estate Grown Nina Lee Walla Walla Valley $50 89 points
The aromas are brooding, with notes of coffee bean, blackberry and spice. The palate is full bodied with a rich feel.

Spring Valley Vineyard 2015 Uriah Estate Grown Walla Walla Valley $50 90 points
This wine is a blend of 43% Cabernet Franc, 38% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec. Aromas of whole green pepper, fresh herb, cocoa and cherry lead to lighter-styled fruit flavors backed by lightly grainy tannins. Those looking for big and bold, look elsewhere. This one is all about sophistication and elegance and it delivers both in abundance.

Spring Valley Vineyard 2015 Frederick Estate Grown Walla Walla Valley $50 88 points
This wine is a blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 8% Malbec. The aromas are generous, with notes of braised green pepper, fresh herb, cherry and flower, with the palate showing more of the same. It comes off as pretty green and a bit dried out. Drink now.

Stevens 2015 Cabernet Franc StevensFranc Yakima Valley $32 87 points
High-toned aromas of green herb, fresh flower, green pepper and cherry are followed by a mixture of lightly styled fruit and herb flavors that bring a lightly tacky feel. Floral notes persist on the finish.

Stevens 2015 Malbec StevensTimley Yakima Valley $32 88 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from the Dineen (70%) and Sheridan vineyards. Beguiling aromas of black plum, tar, clove, cigar box, dried orange peel, spice and whiffs of game are followed by elegant, slightly tangy fruit flavors backed by lightly grainy tannins.

Stevens 2015 Merlot Yakima Valley $32 86 points
Aromas of Band-Aid, dried cherry and dried orange peel are followed by Fruit Roll-Ups flavors. It all seems dried out.

Stevens 2015 Syrah BlackTongue Yakima Valley $32 88 points
Not fully resolved orange-peel, bacon-fat, mineral and herb aromas lead to quite elegantly styled fruit flavors. There are some interesting things going on but they don’t all come together.

Stevens 2015 Stevens424 Yakima Valley $36 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (44%) is the highest percentage in this blend, followed by Cabernet Franc (28%), Merlot (22%) and Malbec. Aromas of green herb, dried red and black fruit, ash, dried orange peel and herb are followed by tangy medicine-cabinet flavors backed by dry tannins with a pleasant lick of acidity. It seems a bit dried out.

Structure 2015 Cabernet Franc Foundation Columbia Valley $38 91 pointsStillwater Creek, Upland, Boushey and Destiny Ridge vineyards comprise equal parts of this 100% varietal wine. Light in color, it has pleasing aromas that suggest dried and fresh herb, along with toasty spice, cherry and moist earth. Full, luscious, pure cherry flavors are followed by a lingering finish. It’s a winner.

Structure 2015 Cabernet Franc Piloti Columbia Valley $27 91 points
This wine is a blend of fruit from Destiny Ridge, Stillwater Creek, Boushey and Upland vineyards. Fragrant aromas of flower, cherry and green herb lead to a focused, flavorful palate. With the oak influence pleasantly dialed back, it’s a superb value. Editor’s Choice

Structure 2015 Cabernet Franc Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $35 89 points
Aged in once-used and older French oak, this leads with aromas that draw you into the glass: dried and fresh herb, cherry, tobacco, flower and dark raspberry. The dark fruit flavors display concentration and depth, with a texture that heightens the appeal.

Structure 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Wallula Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $35 88 points
This wine’s assortment of herbal aromas are followed by black olive, green pepper, green leaf and smoke scents. Its cherry and plum flavors are elegant and sophisticated, with a dried tobacco finish. It comes off as quite green.

Structure 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Foundation Columbia Valley $35 88 points
This 100% varietal wine was made from fruit from Wallula, Hedges, Destiny Ridge, Stillwater Creek and Upland vineyards, using no new oak. The aromas need some coaxing, showing light spice, savory herb, cocoa, cherry and cigar box notes. The palate is more revealing, with sumptuous, full-feeling flavors of black cherry and herb that taper toward the finish. It’s intriguing, albeit a little green.

Structure 2015 Malbec Foundation Yakima Valley $35 91 points
This 100% varietal wine hails from Olsen Brothers vineyard in Yakima Valley and Upland vineyard on Snipes Mountain. The aromas leap from the glass, suggesting satsuma orange peel, jasmine, green herb and plum. They lead to plush red and purple fruit flavors, with prominent satsuma peel notes on the finish. It shows delightful purity.

Structure 2015 Merlot Spire Yakima Valley $25 87 points
A distinct green tinge colors the aromas in this blend from Olsen (60%) and Boushey vineyards, with herb and green tea notes more characteristic of Cabernet Franc. The palate brings soft-feeling orange peel and raspberry flavors

Structure 2015 Syrah Foundation Columbia Valley $32 91 points
Made predominantly from Wallula vineyard fruit (40%), with equal parts Upland, Destiny Ridge and Hedges, this has generous boysenberry, mountain blueberry, flower and dried herb aromas, along with kisses of spice. Ripe, silky fruit flavors lead to a lingering, olive- and meat-filled finish. A charmer. Editor’s Choice

Structure 2015 Syrah Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $35 91 points
Stillwater Creek is considered a Bordeaux variety site, but this wine proves that Syrah can excel there too. Mineral, dried herb, bacon fat, dark plum, barrel spice and red and blue fruit aromas lead to a full-bodied palate that blends fruit and savory notes. It’s equal parts intrigue and delivery.

Structure 2015 Syrah Bauhaus Columbia Valley $25 91 points
This wine is made from equal parts Upland, Hedges and Destiny Ridge vineyard fruit. The aromas leap out of the glass, suggesting green olives, chopped parsley, fresh flowers and smoked meat, the fruit notes lurking the background. The concentration of fruit and savory flavors is seamless and exquisite, with a lengthy finish. Editor’s Choice

Structure 2015 Syrah Wallula Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $35 89 points
Fennel, herb, spice and boysenberry and black fruit scents are followed by concentrated fruit flavors in this wine. An intriguing light meaty streak carries through the finish. The tannins bring a slight astringency, keeping it from fully coming together. Perhaps more time in bottle will help.

SuLei 2015 Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley $34 89 points
Coming from a hot vintage, the aromas are quite jammy in notes of raspberry, plum and currant, along with sprinklings of barrel spice. The flavors are rich and decadent. It’s a bit hard to find the variety but there’s plenty of enjoyment to be had all the same.

SuLei 2015 Red Blend Roller Girl Jammer Walla Walla Valley $20 88 points
It’s rare to find a Walla Walla Valley designated red wine at this price, and this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec brings plenty of appeal. Light aromas of cherry, herb and whiffs of green pepper lead to plump, ripe plum flavors that deliver a lot of enjoyment.

Swiftwater Cellars 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Columbia Valley $85 91 pointsSourced from vineyards on Red Mountain, this has black currant, black cherry, espresso, pencil lead and barrel spice aromas that are locked up on first pour. Its dark fruit flavors are smooth and supple, with firm tannins providing support. Coffee notes linger on the finish.

Swiftwater Cellars 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Octave Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $65 88 points
This wine’s aromas are quite subdued on first pour, suggesting cherries, plums, fresh herbs and baking spices. The palate brings focused fruit flavors and a firm spine of grippy, astringent tannins that need some time to soften.

Swiftwater Cellars 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Zephyr Ridge Estate Bottled Horse Heaven Hills $42 87 points
This wine’s black currant, blackberry jam and spice aromas are followed by black fruit flavors that trail toward the finish. There’s no mistaking the warm vintage and region it comes from.

Swiftwater Cellars 2015 Malbec Columbia Valley $42 87 points
This wine’s aromas are locked up on first pour, revealing high-toned plum, blackberry, herb, licorice and spice notes as it opens. Its blue and purple fruit flavors are light and framed by gritty tannins.

Swiftwater Cellars 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $42 86 points
This wine’s aromas are light, with herb, raspberry and spice notes. The palate offers grainy, astringent tannins. It doesn’t all come together.

Swiftwater Cellars 2015 Syrah Klipsun Vineyard Red Mountain $45 90 points
From a vineyard best known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, this offers blackberry, mineral, smoked meat and toasty spice aromas and full-bodied red and black fruit flavors. It delivers a lot of appeal.

Swiftwater Cellars 2015 Proprietary Columbia Valley $50 87 points
This wine’s blackberry jam, dried currant, cherry, licorice and spice aromas are followed by quite ripe fruit flavors. The tannins give a light squeeze. There are good things going on, but the fruit seems desiccated and the tannins a bit gruff.

Syncline 2015 Grenache-Carignan Horse Heaven Hills $30 91 points
This wine—the only of its kind in the state—is a blend of 70% Carignan and 30% Grenache. It brings appealing, quite pure aromas of herbs, bramble and red fruit. The flavors also bring a compelling sense of purity, with no new oak influence anywhere in sight. Put it on the dinner table to see it shine. Editor’s Choice

Syncline 2015 Mourvèdre Horse Heaven Hills $35 93 points
This 100% varietal wine delivers mineral, citrus twist, raw meat, raspberry and black pepper notes. The palate is full bodied and packed to the brim with fruit and savory flavors. It brings a seamlessness and length that are absolutely dazzling. Editor’s Choice

Syncline 2015 Mourvèdre Heart of the Hill Red Mountain $50 90 points
This wine offers reserved aromas of plum, dried herb and spice. Extremely pretty, elegant red fruit and plum flavors burst on the palate, showing a lot of purity. Recent vintages of this variety from this winery have been big, bold and rich. This one is a bit more about delicacy.

Syncline 2015 Syrah Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $45 91 points
Brooding black raspberry, iron and crushed dried-herb aromas are followed by bright red fruit flavors in this wine. Its purity and texture provide great appeal.

Syncline 2015 Syrah Estate Grown Columbia Gorge $60 90 points
Fruit for this small-production wine came in at a scant one ton per acre and was all aged in older oak barrels. Generous aromas of raspberry, huckleberry, dark fruit, herb and whiffs of black pepper. The palate offers tart, tangy, tightly wound fruit flavors that bring a firm grip of puckering tannins. This requires additional time in bottle or a long decant to be properly appreciated. Best after 2021.

Syncline 2015 Syrah Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Red Mountain $50 88 points
Aromas of raspberry, blue fruit, herbs, flowers and smoke are followed by tart, light-bodied fruit flavors. It’s intriguing but doesn’t all quite come together.

Syncline 2015 Subduction 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 2015 Cuvée Elena Columbia Valley $45 91 points
This wine is a blend of 60% Mourvèdre, 20% Syrah, 13% Grenache and 7% Carignan. High toned, very pure aromas of raspberry, plum and assorted herbs lead to a tight palate of red- and blue-fruit flavors. Give it a several hour decant or some additional time in bottle to see it at its best. Editor’s Choice

Tamarack Cellars 2015 Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley $30 89 points
The aromas pop on this 100% varietal, with notes of dark plum, mountain blueberry, vanilla and cream. The flavors are smooth and sultry, mixing fruit and barrel with a plush feel and a lightly astringent finish. The variety is hard to get but it delivers a lot of enjoyment.

Tamarack Cellars 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $28 88 points
The aromas are high toned, with notes of char, plum, butterscotch, vanilla and spice, needing some coaxing to get at them initially. The palate mixes cherry and cranberry flavors that show intensity and length. There are good things going on but they don’t all seem to come together at present.

Tamarack Cellars 2015 Red Blend Firehouse Columbia Valley $16 87 points
Cabernet Sauvignon (30%) takes the lead on this wine, followed by Merlot (21%), Syrah (17%), Cabernet Franc (14%) and five other varieties. Aromas of blue fruit, char, plum, herb, confection and spice are followed by easy-drinking plum flavors, with a slightly clipped finish. It’s a pleasant easy drinker.

Telaya 2015 Malbec Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $36 84 points
Aromas of marionberry jam and smoke leap out of the glass, along with orange peel and wilted flower notes that seem a bit unsettled. The flavors are plump around the edges but light in the middle, with a mesquite note that distracts.

Temporal 2015 Tempranillo Temp Washington $20 88 points
This is all Dineen Vineyard (Rattlesnake Hills) fruit, aged in a mixture of neutral and twice-filled French oak barrels—a rare look at this variety in the state without overt oak influence. Aromas of pencil eraser, gummy bear, tobacco and spice are followed by plentiful dried and fresh tobacco flavors that show a reserved styling.

Tenet 2015 GSM Columbia Valley $70 92 points
This wine—a joint project between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Rhône stars Michel Gassier and Philippe Cambie—is a blend of 40% Grenache, 38% Mourvèdre and 22% Syrah. The aromas are locked up on first pour, with notes of blackberry, underbrush, orange peel and spice. The palate packs a big punch of red and black fruit flavors that are bold but still show a lot of finesse and brightness.

Tenet 2015 Syrah The Pundit Columbia Valley $25 91 points
The aromas bring a sense purity, with notes of mountain blueberry, high-toned herb and whiffs of smoked meat. The flavors are fruit forward, showing a pleasing approachability and sense of freshness, with a finish that glides. Editor’s Choice

Tertulia 2015 Cabernet Franc Elevation Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $45 88 points
This wine comes from a newly explored area of this appellation near the North Fork of the Walla Walla River. Aged for 22 months in one-third new French oak, plum, jalapeño, cinnamon, cranberry, mineral and wood-spice aromas lead to soft, elegant, lightly styled cranberry flavors. It provides intrigue.

Tertulia 2015 Syrah Whistling Hills Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $40 88 points
The aromas are light and a bit difficult to tease out, with notes of red and blue fruit, tire rubber, herb and spice. The palate is lighter in style with a tart blue-fruit-filled finish.

Tertulia 2015 Syrah Riviere Galets Estate Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $40 87 points
Aromas of raspberry candy, fresh flower, dried orange peel, herb, smoked meat and tire rubber are followed by soft fruit flavors that coat the palate, then taper. Orange-peel notes linger on the finish.

The Conqueror 2015 Red Blend Horse Heaven Hills $27 87 pointsThe aromas are downright fruity, with plentiful plum notes along with green pepper, herb and spice. The flavors are sleek in style, a bit wanting in the middle but still providing enjoyment. It finishes a touch bitter, with lightly gritty tannins.

The Walls 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Curiositas Red Mountain $56 90 points
Fruit for this wine comes from Obelisco Vineyard. The aromas are quite light on first pour, showing faint notes of cherry and spice, seeming ever so slightly dried out. In contrast, the palate is lush and full, packed to the brim with cherry flavors backed by exquisitely integrated tannins.

The Walls 2015 Red Blend Stanley Groovy Red Mountain $38 88 points
A blend of Portuguese varieties, the aromas explode, with notes of mountain blueberry, huckleberry, orange peel, fresh tobacco, herb and spice. The palate shows an elegant styling, with orange-peel notes lingering on the finish. One wants more concentration but what’s there is riveting.

The Walls 2015 The Ramparts Red Mountain $44 90 points
This wine is 52% Grenache, 32% Mourvèdre, 13% Counoise and 3% Syrah. The aromas are reserved, with notes of stem, black pepper, raspberry, blueberry and cranberry. The palate is full but light and elegant, especially for the appellation, with a persistent finish.

Thick Skinned 2015 Red Mountain $65 90 points
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Malbec (33%) and Petit Verdot. It’s aromatically locked up on first pour, showing whiffs of cherry and spice. The palate is considerably more expressive, packed with rich, dense, jammy black cherry flavors surrounded by a pleasing sense of structure.

Three of Cups 2015 Syrah L’Astre Les Collines Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $30 88 points
Vibrant aromas of blue fruit, dried herb and potpourri lead to light, soft, tart fruit and barrel flavors. Blue-fruit flavors linger on the finish. It seems compact right now but good things are going on.

Three Rivers 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley $39 88 points
Almost all of the fruit for this wine comes from esteemed Seven Hills Vineyard. The aromas are fruit forward, suggesting notes of blackberry, cassis, herb and dark coffee. The palate paints around the edges, with the tannins giving a slightly dry squeeze.

Three Rivers 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $25 87 points
This offers blackberry, potting soil, green herb and fresh flower aromas. Its bold cherry and herb flavors dip in the middle, with drying, astringent tannins.

Three Rivers 2015 Malbec Columbia Valley $30 88 points
Aromas of red plum, clove, barrel spice and dried herb lead to soft lighter-styled fruit flavors, with the tannins bringing a lightly chalky feel. There’s a pleasing snap on the finish.

Three Rivers 2015 Red Blend River’s Columbia Valley $15 87 points
Merlot (32%), Sangiovese (31%) and Malbec (30%) make up the majority of this blend, with the balance Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Aromas of currant, plum and herb are followed by plump cherry flavors backed by lightly grainy tannins. It provides appeal and value.

Twin Cedars 2015 Sangiovese Rattlesnake Hills $27 87 points
Aromas of cranberry, cherry and barrel spice lead to plentiful cran-raspberry flavors that show some warmth on the finish. It’s an enjoyable example of the variety.

Two Vintners 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sal May’s Discovery Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $55 88 points
Aromas of dark roasted coffee, woodspice and pencil lead are followed by lighter styled cherry flavors. The tannins bring a light grip. It provides interest but all seems a bit understated.

Two Vintners 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Legit Columbia Valley $NA 87 points
This wine’s dried cherry, spice, mint, dried blackberry and asphalt aromas lead to quite ripe black fruit and spice flavors. Slightly dry, green tannins provide support. It all seems a bit dried out.

Two Vintners 2015 Cinsault Make Haste Yakima Valley $21 92 points
This wine is all Cinsault from Olsen Vineyard. Aged in neutral French oak, it’s resplendent with aromas of raspberry jam, potpourri, plum, flower and garrigue. The palate is transparent in style with elegant but rich red-fruit and plum flavors that lead to a lengthy, warm finish. Editor’s Choice

Two Vintners 2015 Grenache Claire Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $40 93 points
Light in color, this wine offers beguiling aromas with notes of fire pit, flower, stem, potpourri, black raspberry and smoked meat. Ethereally light and enchanting, it’s texturally rich and flavorful, with a warm finish—a delicious example of this site and variety. Editor’s Choice

Two Vintners 2015 Red Blend Lola Walla Walla Valley $30 92 points
This is a blend of 60% Syrah and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the fruit coming from Yellow Jacket and Pepper Bridge vineyards respectively. The aromas bring notes of blackberry, dried herb, plum, smoked meat and wet gravel. The black fruit and savory flavors are rich and extracted, coating the palate from end to end, with more dark-fruit flavors lingering on the finish.

Two Vintners 2015 Syrah The Waiting List Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $40 95 points
The winery’s first Syrah offering from this esteemed vineyard after years on the waiting list (hence the name), this stunner brings huckleberry, green herb, mountain blueberry, dried flower, orange peel, iron and bacon fat aromas. Its rich, intense and focused smoked meat and flower flavors linger on the finish for a full 45 seconds. Another feather in the cap for this winery and vineyard. Editor’s Choice

Two Vintners 2015 Syrah Some Days Are Diamonds May’s Discovery Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $50 92 points
This wine is almost completely closed up on first pour, opening up to show aromas of sage, smoked meat, purple fruit and dried flowers. Despite the warmth of the vintage—and the higher alcohol level—the palate seems fresh and focused, with enough backbone to do well in the cellar.

Two Vintners 2015 Syrah Some Days Are Stones Stoney Vine Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $50 92 points
Despite coming from the Rocks District which is known for favoring savory tones, the aromas of this wine start out with a lot of primary fruit, including blueberry and plum. Smoked meat, dried violet, olive, gravel, dried herb and grilled asparagus become prominent over time. It shows a whole lot of hang time on the potpourri filled finish.

Two Vintners 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $21 91 points
This is a pan-Washington Syrah, with fruit coming from Olsen, Pepper Bridge, Discovery, Dineen, Stone Tree, Boushey and Stoney Vine vineyards. It’s a bit closed up on first pour, with notes of spice, dried herb, dark fruit, orange peel and whiffs of smoked meat. The palate is seamless in feel, gliding along with fruit and savory flavors that persist on the lengthy finish. It brings a very pleasing understated quality—a rare find at this price point. Editor’s Choice

Two Vintners 2015 Zinfandel Stonetree Vineyard Wahluke Slope $29 91 points
Appealing aromas of spice, cranberry, raspberry and candy bar lead to rich, full bodied, ripe fruit flavors that completely coat the palate. The listed alcohol level pushes the upper reaches but it maintains its balance extremely well. If you’re looking for a delicious, hedonistic interpretation of this variety, look no further.

Underground Wine Project 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Devil’s Playground Red Mountain $30 88 points
Aromas of cocoa, raspberry, plum, blueberry and wood spice lead to lighter-styled plum and herb flavors with fine-grained tannins. Spice flavors taper on the finish. It’s an enjoyable easy drinker but hard to peg the variety or appellation.

Underground Wine Project 2015 Red Blend Idle Hands Red Mountain $30 90 points
A joint project between winemakers Trey Busch and Mark McNeilly, this wine is almost all Syrah. The aromas are exuberant, with note of huckleberry, plum, smoked meat, baking spice, orange peel, cinnamon and raspberry. Bountiful fruit flavors coat the palate, bringing a pleasing sense of purity and more restraint than this warm appellation and vintage might suggest. Best by 2021.

Upchurch 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $75 91 points
The aromas offer appealing notes of dried and fresh herbs along with cherry and dried orange rind and scorched earth. The palate is packed full of rich fruit flavors surrounded by firm, slightly dry tannins and tart acids. The flavors stretch out on the finish. It has enough structure to go the distance.

Upchurch 2015 Counterpart Red Mountain $50 92 points
This is the inaugural release of this wine, a blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon from the winery’s estate vineyard. The aromas are effusive, with notes of cherry meats, black raspberry, mineral, blackberry bramble and plentiful barrel spice. The flavors are rich and layered with firm tannins and a bright lick of acidity. It impresses. Give it a good 10 years in bottle or a long decant. Cellar Selection

van Loben Sels 2015 Bona Dea Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley $65 86 points
Cabernet Sauvignon makes up three-quarters of this wine, with the balance Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Its mocha, green herb, blackberry, medicine cabinet and anise aromas lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors that have a lightly creamy feel. It seems evolved for its age.

Vino 2015 Red Blend Rosso 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 La Monarcha 2015 Sangiovese Wahluke Slope $20 88 points
The aromas bring appeal, with notes of cherry and spice. The palate is plush with fruit flavors, with the tannins giving a (quite) dry squeeze. A warm finish caps it off.

Viola 2015 Barbera Dugger Creek Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $32 88 points
This offers jammy cranberry and raspberry aromas, with lemon peel notes and kisses of barrel spice. The palate brings a pleasing texture and sweet fruit flavors, finishing with fruit leather notes. A unique interpretation of a variety rarely seen in Walla Walla Valley.

Viola 2015 Sangiovese Dugger Creek Vineyard Walla Walla Valley (OR) $28 88 points
This pale-colored wine offers pure cherry candy and raspberry aromas. The flavors are light, tart and elegant. It doesn’t quite stand up on its own but should fit in well at the dinner table.

Vital 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $28 87 points
Aromas of butterscotch, herb and barrel spice are followed by full-bodied cherry and vanilla flavors, with the tannins bringing some grit. Ultimately, the wood seems to get a bit in the way of the fruit.

Vital 2015 Red Blend The Given Walla Walla Valley $25 88 points
Vibrant candied cherry, herb and baking spice aromas are followed by medium-bodied fruit flavors in this wine. The tannins bring a bit of grit to an otherwise enjoyable palate.

Vital 2015 The Gifted Walla Walla Valley $25 88 points
The aromas are light, with notes of cranberry, blueberry and wood spice. The palate brings plush but tart cranberry flavors that linger on the finish.

W.T. Vintners 2015 Grenache Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $40 92 points
The winery’s first Grenache from this esteemed vineyard, this was aged in neutral French oak. It’s expressive in aroma, with flower, mountain strawberry, green olive, white pepper and smoked meat notes that become more prominent over time. The palate is full-flavored but still elegant, with fruit and savory notes that lead to a peppery finish. Editor’s Choice

W.T. Vintners 2015 Mourvèdre Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $40 91 points
Achingly pure plum, red fruit, game, black pepper and fresh green herb aromas are followed by textured, seamless red and black fruit flavors in this wine. The finish is long and redolent of cranberries. It’s riper than the norm for this winery, but so was the vintage it comes from.

W.T. Vintners 2015 Syrah Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley $40 92 points
From one of the state’s top Syrah sites, this 50% whole cluster wine draws you in with captivating notes of fresh and dried herb, ground black pepper, iron, crushed flower, green olive, cherry and bacon fat. Its fruit and savory flavors are palate-coating but still sleek, pure and vibrant. A meaty finish caps it off. Give it time to open up, and it’s flat out delicious. Editor’s Choice

W.T. Vintners 2015 Syrah Gorgeous Destiny Ridge Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills $30 92 points
All the fruit for this wine comes from Block One of this vineyard. Its aromas are fresh and vital, with sagebrush, dried and fresh herb, flower and red and black fruit notes. Lively acidity frames the flavors—a pleasant surprise considering the warmth of the vintage and region. Exquisitely balanced and deserving of its name, it demands food to be fully appreciated.

W.T. Vintners 2015 Boushey Vineyard Rhône Yakima Valley $40 92 points
Equal parts Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache, this was aged in neutral oak. Its aroma intoxicates with piercingly pure chopped parsley, green olive, dried flower, bacon fat, red plum, white pepper, smoke and moist earth notes. The flavors live up to the hype; they’re lithe and light but full of fruit and savory notes, culminating in a bacon fat- and fresh herb-inflected finish. It drinks well now but should only improve with time in the bottle. Best after 2021. Cellar Selection

Walla Walla Vintners 2015 Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley $35 91 points
High toned notes of garden herb, spice, cherry and bittersweet chocolate lead the nose of this wine. Chocolate and cherry flavors intertwine throughout the palate and linger on the finish. It brings plenty of appeal despite the obvious oak influence.

Walla Walla Vintners 2015 Dolcetto Dwelley Vineyard Walla Walla Valley $29 91 points
This wine’s bright, fruit-forward raspberry, herb, cocoa and barrel spice aromas are followed by exquisitely pure, elegant red plum flavors that coat the palate from end to end. A delicious rendition of this seldom seen variety.

Walla Walla Vintners 2015 Sangiovese Columbia Valley $29 91 points
High toned aromas mark the nose of this wine, including dried herb, fresh plum, huckleberry and spice. Its purple fruit flavors are rich and lush, with a pleasing purity that carries through the finish. It’s uncharacteristic of Sangiovese but brings undeniable appeal.

Washington Hills 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Washington $10 85 points
Fruit-forward aromas of blueberry, orange peel and spice lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors. It’s respectable, though it’s near impossible to peg it as Cabernet. Best Buy

Waterbrook 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $25 88 points
This wine’s black currant, incense, dark plum and spice aromas lead to soft, ripe blue and black fruit flavors. Lightly grainy tannins provide support.

Waterbrook 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $13 88 points
Vanilla, baking spice, herb, plum and cherry aromas are followed by supersmooth, creamy feeling plum and barrel flavors in this Cabernet. Caramel and vanilla notes linger on the finish, and while the oak influence is heavy, it largely works. Best Buy

Waterbrook 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Columbia Valley $NA 87 points
Cocoa, herb, dark chocolate, vanilla and cherry aromas are out front. Fruit and barrel flavors play off each other and continue to intertwine through the finish. Grippy tannins back it up.

Waterbrook 2015 Malbec Columbia Valley $13 88 points
Plum, herb, blue fruit, vanilla and spice aromas lead to soft, plush fruit flavors in this wine. The texture and blue fruit flavors bring appeal. Best Buy

Waterbrook 2015 Malbec Reserve Columbia Valley $30 86 points
The aromas show notes of fresh herb, plum, spice and orange peel. The flavors are light and sleek, not showing the variety’s more generous side but still providing interest.

Waterbrook 2015 Merlot Reserve Columbia Valley $30 86 points
Aromas of barrel spice, red apple and cherry are followed by nicely textured fruit flavors. The tannins bring a lot of grit and grip.

Waterbrook 2015 Merlot Columbia Valley $13 86 points
Aromas of vanilla, cocoa and woodspice are at the fore. The palate starts out broadly but then trails as it moves toward the finish. This wine doesn’t entirely come together.

Waterbrook 2015 Red Blend Icon Columbia Valley $34 88 points
Merlot makes up 60% of this blend, with the balance equally split between Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. High toned aromas of dried green herb, vanilla, baking spice and cherry lead to light but plump red and black fruit flavors.

Waterbrook 2015 Syrah Columbia Valley $15 88 points
Pleasing aromas of marionberry, cocoa and spice are followed by lightly styled but still palate-coating fruit flavors. A velvety texture heightens the appeal, with fruit and barrel flavors lingering on the finish.

Waters 2015 Interlude Washington $28 92 points
This wine is half Merlot, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Well-delineated notes of dried herb, raspberry, black cherry, dried flower, graphite and anise mark the nose. The palate bursts with fresh fruit and earth flavors that are at once textured, pure, polished and light on their feet. A long, fruit-filled finish caps it off. It’s a gorgeous, nuanced wine that way over-delivers for the price. Editor’s Choice

William Marie 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Windmill Firethorn Vineyard Columbia Valley $29 87 points
High-toned aromas of barrel spice, green pepper, cherry and herb lead to plump cherry flavors. It delivers enjoyment but seems a bit generic.

Wilridge 2015 Grenache Angiolina Vineyard Yakima Valley $23 87 points
Pale in color, the aromas are quite light, making you strain into the glass to get at them. The cranberry and herb flavors bring a sense of purity and appeal, with the oak dialed way back. One wants more aromatically but the palate delivers enjoyment. It should perform well at the dinner table.

Wilridge 2015 Malbec Conley Vineyard Columbia Valley $23 88 points
The aromas are light, with notes of berry, herb, dried flower and spice. The palate brings plenty of plump cherry flavors along with pleasing spice accents. It’s an intriguing example of this variety.

Wilridge 2015 Merlot Lodmell Vineyard Walla Walla County $23 87 points
Aromas of boysenberry and barrel spice are followed by ripe pleasing purple-fruit flavors. The tannins deliver a light squeeze. It’s hard to find the variety exactly, but it still brings appeal.

Wilridge 2015 Sagrantino Estate Wilridge Vineyard Naches Heights $40 87 points
This is the only bottling of this variety I am aware of in the state. The aromas are intriguing: all high toned, with notes of herb, barrel spice and ripe blackberry. The flavors are full bore, holding nothing back. The tannins bring a slight sense of astringency. There’s promise.

Wilridge 2015 Touriga Nacional Mary Evelyn Vineyard Yakima Valley $23 88 points
This is a seldom-seen variety in the state. The aromas are brooding, with high-toned notes of dried herb, barrel spice and potpourri along with red fruit. The fruit flavors are tart and plump, soft and sumptuous, showing a pleasing sense of purity. One wants a bit more aromatically but there’s still much to enjoy.

Wilridge 2015 Zweigelt Estate Naches Heights $35 90 points
This variety is an extreme rarity in the state but shows plenty of promise in this nascent growing region. Aromas of cherry, herb and spice lead to broad tart full cherry flavors that show a sense of purity, finesse and length.

Wind Rose 2015 Malbec Lonesome Springs Ranch Yakima Valley $25 88 points
Blended with 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, the aromas bring pleasing notes of plum, green herb and baking spice. The flavors show a sense of elegance, painting around the edges, with the middle a bit lacking. It finishes with a tart kick.

Zero One Vintners 2015 Sauce Columbia Valley $15 86 points
This wine is mostly Merlot (77%), fleshed out by Cabernet Sauvignon (20%) and Petit Verdot. Fresh aromas of plum, herb, bittersweet chocolate and red fruit are followed by medium-bodied, lightly sweet fruit flavors. The tannins bring some grit and it shows some heat on the finish.