Below are Northwest Wine Report’s Top 60 Northwest Wines of 2024! These wines were chosen from nearly 1,000 wines reviewed over the last year.
I selected wines based on score, overall excitement, and, to a lesser extent, price. I tried to list at least one wine in each group that provided exceptional value. Wines are grouped by variety/style. Within each category, wines are ordered first by score, then alphabetically.
I limited selections to one wine per winery/estate. That is to say, if a winery has multiple projects, I only selected a wine from one of them. I did, however, make an exception if I felt the category demanded it.
Why 60 wines? As with last year, I tried very hard to keep the list to 50. My desire was to be more selective with the list rather than less. Alas, I could not whittle the list past 60 without it becoming less reflective of what I was excited about tasting this year.
Note that most of the producers below could easily have had several wines on this list. Additionally, there many others I considered that are not represented that could be. There are over 2,600 wineries in the Pacific Northwest. This list is nothing if not choosy.
Some of the wines listed below are already sold out. Others are still available. I have listed the original publication date after the review text. This might, or might not, speak to the wine’s availability.
Wine reviews at Northwest Wine Report are typically restricted to subscribers. This list, however, is freely available to all in celebration of the bounty of exceptional wines coming out the Pacific Northwest.
Without further ado, the Top 60 Northwest Wines of 2024!
BORDEAUX-STYLE BLENDS
Gård 2021 Conner Lee Vineyard Selection Columbia Valley $120
95 points, Cellar Stocker
This is a blend of 50% Merlot and 50% Cabernet Franc, barrel fermented and aged 24 months in 100% new French oak. Aromas of coffee, flower, chocolate, licorice, and cherry lead to plump, creamy-feeling, structured roasted coffee bean flavors. A hyper-extended finish caps it off. It’s a complete stunner. Best from 2027 to 2037. Decant either way, but give it an extended decant if drinking earlier. 14.8% alcohol. Natural cork. 145 cases produced. Reviewed August 16, 2024.
Cadence 2021 Cara Mia Vineyard Camerata Red Mountain $70
94 points, Cellar Stocker
If you want to see a shining example of what Washington wine is all about, check out Cadence. The wines are consistently spectacular, they show their place and vintage as well if not better than any wines made in the state, and they are profoundly ageable. It’s hard to ask for more. This wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (80%), blended with Cabernet Franc and Merlot (10% each). The aromas bring notes of green herb, flower, tangerine rind, black currant, and red fruit, all laser-focused. The medium-bodied flavors are achingly pure and balanced. It’s unadulterated goodness and screams out for food alongside it. Enjoy with pork tenderloin. 14.4% alcohol. Natural cork. 300 cases produced. Reviewed November 25, 2024.
Matthews 2021 Claret Columbia Valley $55
94 points, Critic’s Choice
This is the first release of the Claret from Matthews’ new winemaking team, and it commands attention. It’s a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (34%), Merlot (29%), Malbec (5%), and Petit Verdot. Fruit comes from seven appellations across the Columbia Valley and includes 22 different clones. Aged 19 months in French oak (27% new), it’s aromatically brooding, with notes of coffee, earth, blackberry, cherry, dried herb, dark raspberry, and spice, with the aromas pleasingly melded together. The black cherry flavors are plump and immediately approachable, showing detail and sophistication. It’s not brawn that impresses here. It is pinpoint detail, finesse, and balance. 14.9% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 5,083 cases produced. Reviewed January 22, 2024.
Mark Ryan 2021 Water Witch Red Wine Red Mountain $70
93 points, Cellar Stocker
Water Witch is a consistent standout in the Mark Ryan portfolio. The 2021 vintage does not disappoint. Cabernet Sauvignon comprises 70%, with the rest Merlot (22%), Malbec (6%), and Petit Verdot. All of the fruit comes from Quintessence Vineyard. Aromas of milk and dark chocolate, coffee, graphite, cherry, and spice lead to plump feeling, layered black fruit and herb flavors. It shows pleasing richness and sophistication – classic Mark Ryan. Best from 2027 to 2036. 14.8% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 760 cases produced. Reviewed February 19, 2024.
Soos Creek 2021 Champoux Vineyard Red Wine Horse Heaven Hills $40
92 points, Cellar Stocker
Coming from one of the most highly regarded vineyards in the state, Cabernet Sauvignon comprises 67% of this wine, all coming from Block 4, with the rest Merlot. The aromas are appealing and fresh, with notes of dark cherry, red fruit, plum, lemon zest, cedar, and graphite. Supple, reserved red and black fruit flavors follow, backed by polished but very much present tannins. The finish sails. It brings a delicious, understated appeal along with a whole lot of class. All that for $40? Yes please. Best after 2027. 14.1% alcohol. Natural cork. 75 cases produced. Reviewed July 8, 2024.
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Passing Time 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $110
96 points, Cellar Stocker
Discovery (56%) and Wallula (32%) vineyard Cabernet make up the backbone of this wine, which is blended with 8% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc, both from Champoux. Aged in 80% new French oak, the aromas boast notes of dried and fresh herb, black cherry, cassis, bittersweet chocolate, earth, and spice. The palate is all about suppleness, grace, nuance, and class. Fine grained tannins back it all up. Coffee notes linger on the finish. Far from a big bold bruiser, this wine focuses on Cabernet’s divine beauty and shows it vividly. But make no mistake, there’s sneaky power too. It’s absurdly delicious, with an extremely long life in front of it. Enjoy from 2027 to 2040. 14.8% alcohol. Natural cork. 475 cases produced. Reviewed January 22, 2024.
Trothe 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills $234
96 points, Cellar Stocker
In a few short vintages, Trothe has made a name for itself as one of the very best Cabernet Sauvignon producers in Washington. This wine shows why. Aromas of plum, dark fruit, and herb lead to plump, exquisitely proportioned black fruit flavors that show compelling purity, polish, intensity, and length. Far from a big bruiser or an overt blockbuster, this wine is all about grace, subtlety, balance, and – most impressive of all – purity, while bringing no shortage of power, richness, and intensity. The interplay between all of the components separates it. It’s gloriously beautiful – one of the wines of the vintage – with a very (very) long life in front of it. Best from 2028 to 2040. 14.5% alcohol. Natural cork. 200 cases produced. Reviewed March 6, 2024.
Force Majeure 2021 Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain $150
95 points, Cellar Stocker
Aged 22 months in French oak (78% new), the aromas show notes of blackberry, black cherry, and black currant, leaning into the warmth of the vintage. Toasty barrel notes provide accents. A full-bodied, intensely rich, structured palate follows. A long, long impressive finish caps it off, persisting for almost a full minute. The balance is impeccable throughout. This wine is nowhere near ready to show its best stuff, but it is spectacular. Hold until at least 2028 with an easy decade of enjoyment beyond that. 14.9% alcohol. Natural cork. 613 cases produced. Reviewed February 5, 2024.
Long Shadows 2021 Feather Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley $85
95 points, Cellar Stocker
100% varietal, this is a blend of fruit from Weinbau, Dionysus, and several Horse Heaven vineyards. Aged 22 months in French oak (85% new), it’s aromatically expressive, with notes of toast, coffee, freshly mortared herb, assorted barrel spices, and cherry. Intense, rich, pillowy-feeling, palate-coating black fruit flavors follow, with plentiful barrel accents. A generous mid-palate ups the interest. It’s unabashedly hedonistic – full throttle – bringing a mouthful of fruit and pleasure. Best from 2028 to 2036. 14.9% alcohol. Natural cork. 3,849 cases produced. Reviewed November 25, 2024.
Foolhardy 2021 Bacchus Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon White Bluffs $80
93 points, Cellar Stocker
Fruit for this wine comes from Block 10, planted in 1972. These old vines are nearing the end their productivity, but still have something to say, especially if you lean in. Native yeast fermented, the wine was aged 21 months in French oak (16% new). The aromas show reserved notes of red and black cherry, dried leaf, and assorted herbs. On the palate, the fruit is elegant, with soft, polished tannins. It’s enlivened by vibrant acidity. The subtleties and grace kick it up a notch. Pair it with pork tenderloin. Best from 2027 to 2034. 14.5% alcohol. Natural cork. 46 cases produced. Reviewed October 21, 2024.
Gramercy Lower East Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley 2019 $28
92 points, Critic’s Choice
This was a benchmark vintage for Gramercy’s Cabernets, and we even see that here – in its declassified wine. It’s a blend of fruit from Phinny Hill, Pepper Bridge, and the winery’s estate vineyard, aged 19 months in French oak (28% new). The aromas show notes of fresh and dried herb, black currant, and blackberry bramble. The palate brings plump, sumptuous, achingly pure dark fruit flavors. A long, long finish caps it off. It’s a gorgeous interpretation of Cabernet that will dazzle on the dinner table. It’s also one of the more outrageous values in Washington wine currently on the market. Reviewed March 25, 2024.
GRENACHE & MOURVÈDRE
WeatherEye 2021 Estate Grenache Red Mountain $85
95 points, Cellar Stocker
This is all varietal, fermented 30% whole cluster in concrete and then aged 18 months in large format French oak. The aromas are brooding, with notes of black raspberry, Red Vines, Rainier cherry, and sprinklings of dried herb, showing crystalline purity. Supple, ripe, supremely-focused red fruit flavors follow. There’s persistent intensity and a (very) lengthy, fruit-filled finish. It’s a prototype of the variety. Best from 2027 to 2033. Reviewed February 5, 2024.
Latta 2020 Upland Vineyard Grenache Snipes Mountain $52
94 points, Critic’s Choice
Upland has established itself as one of the premier Grenache sites in Washington. This wine was fermented 50% whole cluster, spent 21 days on skins and stems, and then was basket pressed and aged 22 months in 500L neutral French oak puncheons. Aromas of red fruit, white pepper, kirsch, and herb lead to plump, full-feeling, well-constructed plum and red fruit flavors. There’s grace, intensity, and purity. It’s straight up beautiful, with the long finish kicking it up a notch. Decant. Reviewed March 24, 2024.
Prospice 2022 Alder Ridge Vineyards Mourvèdre Horse Heaven Hills $50
94 points, Cellar Stocker
I can’t say enough good things about what Prospice is doing. But don’t take my word for it. Try this thrill-ride of a wine. It was fermented half whole cluster and then aged 16 months in neutral French oak. The aromas pop, with notes of white pepper, black raspberry, bramble, and dark fruit – classic Mourvèdre. The palate shows pleasing restraint, intensity, and purity. It sticks around for a long finish. Stunning stuff. Seek it out. Best after 2027. 14.2% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 122 cases produced. Reviewed October 18, 2024.
Grosgrain 2022 XL Vineyard Mourvèdre Walla Walla Valley $36
93 points, Critic’s Choice
Blended with 13% Grenache, fruit for this wine comes from a ridgeline vineyard. The aromas offer notes of freshly ground black pepper, sauvage, and roasted meat. They lead to a rollickingly flavorful, intensely pure, medium-bodied dark fruit-filled palate. Far from a big bruiser, this wine is all about nuance and finesse and brings both in abundance. It needs food alongside it to be fully enjoyed, but enjoy it you will. Decant and pair it with grilled lamb chop. 14.2% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 155 cases produced. Reviewed November 25, 2025.
Idilico 2022 Monastrell Yakima Valley $24
93 points, Critic’s Choice
This is an outstanding offering of this variety as well as a superb value. The aromas bring notes of black pepper, stem, blood orange, red plum, herb, and black raspberry. Plush fruit flavors follow. The directness and purity are dazzling. It’s very varietal and outrageously delicious with a long life ahead of it. Pair it with grilled lamb chops. 13.9% alcohol. Micro-agglomerated cork. 143 cases produced. Reviewed December 16, 2024.
MERLOT
Itä 2021 Les Collines Vineyard Merlot Walla Walla Valley $48
93 points, Critic’s Choice
In just a few short years, itä has created a lane all its own: Blue Mountain foothill wines that are considerably lower in alcohol, higher in acid, and that show crystalline purity. Blended with 17% Petit Verdot, this wine offers perfumed aromas, with notes of whole berry, raspberry, strawberry, dried herb, and orange rind, showing exquisite purity. Silky-soft, plush red fruit flavors follow, on the lighter side of medium-bodied. Citrus grace notes accent the extended finish. The purity is knee-buckling. This is not your parents’ Merlot. In fact, it’s unlike any other Merlot made in the state. 12.9% alcohol. Micro-agglomerated cork. 70 cases produced. Reviewed June 7, 2024.
L’Ecole No. 41 2021 Estate Grown Merlot Walla Walla Valley $42
93 points, Critic’s Choice
This wine is a blend of Seven Hills (64%) and Ferguson vineyard fruit. It was aged 18 months in French oak (30% new). Aromas of violet, plum, cocoa, coffee, and barrel spice lead to palate-coating, refined cherry flavors, intertwined with herb and coffee notes. It sticks around for a long time on the finish. The balance is spot on throughout. It’s a knockout, a Washington Merlot for the ages. 14.5% alcohol. Natural cork. 1,200 cases produced. Reviewed April 24, 2024.
Goose Ridge 2021 Estate Bottled Merlot Goose Gap $40
92 points, Critic’s Choice
Native fermented, this wine was blended with 6% Cabernet Franc and 4% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged 21 months in French oak. Aromas of steeped plum, shaved chocolate, coffee, orange peel, and spice are followed by a broad-feeling, balanced, stretched out palate, loaded with dark fruit flavors and plentiful barrel accents. It has the pleasingly generous mid-palate that is the hallmark of so many Washington wines and also brings a sense of seriousness. A lip smacking finish caps it off. It’s a thoroughly delicious example of how good this variety can be in Washington. 14.8% alcohol. Natural cork. 371 cases produced. Reviewed February 19, 2024.
Luke Merlot Wahluke Slope 2021 $28
92 points, Critic’s Choice
Blended with 6% Cabernet Franc, fruit for this wine comes from Weinbau, Stonetree, Clifton Hill, and Ravencliff vineyards. Aged in all used barriques, the aromas bring a pleasing if subdued medley of fresh and dried herb along with cherry, red plum, blood orange, and graphite. The palate boasts plump, beautifully proportioned fruit flavors, displaying balance and outrageous length. It drinks like a considerably more expensive bottle of wine and represents an insane value at this price. Reviewed January 22, 2024.
PINOT NOIR
Balsall Creek 2022 Pinot Meunier Chehalem Mountains $70
94 points, Critic’s Choice
This is an underappreciated variety, and, boy, does this wine make that argument convincingly. Aged 10 months in neutral oak, the aromas enchant, with notes of satsuma rind, cedar, dark strawberry, raspberry, moist earth, and black tea, showing definition and detail. The palate explodes with vibrant, juicy, medium-bodied red and darker fruit flavors. It’s all in vivid focus, with exquisite purity – a complete knee buckler. 13.2% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 109 cases produced. Reviewed July 30, 2024.
LucidWild 2021 Beast Single Vineyard Wine Estate Pinot Noir Dundee Hills $155
94 points, Cellar Stocker
This wine was native yeast fermented and aged 16 months in French oak (30% new). Enticing aromas of herb, porcini powder, crushed flower, red fruit, and barrel spice lead to medium-bodied, elegant, cherry and cranberry-driven flavors. It shows impressive depth and dimension. A tart, black tea-filled finish caps it off. The acid drives it. It requires food to be fully appreciated. Enjoy it with a winery recommended lobster mushroom risotto. Best after 2026. 13.1% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 300 cases produced. Reviewed April 24, 2024.
Anacréon 2021 Mine Yours and Ours Estate Grown Pinot Noir Chehalem Mountains $80
93 points, Cellar Stocker
This wine is a blend of Coury and 777 clones, picked on September 6th. It was aged 11 months in oak (50% new). Aromas of wet stone, dried satsuma rind, black tea leaf, red fruit, and flower lead to full-feeling cherry flavors that coat the palate from end to end, showing depth, layering, intensity, and precision. Firm tannins back it up. Black tea notes linger on the finish. It flat out impresses. Best after 2025. 13.5% alcohol. Natural cork. 50 cases produced. Reviewed April 24, 2024.
Holocene 2022 Memorialis Pinot Noir Yamhill-Carlton $65
93 points, Cellar Stocker
This wine was fermented in concrete, 35% whole cluster. It was subsequently aged 18 months in large format, used French oak. Stem, herb, and white pepper aromas are in the lead. They are followed by notes of strawberry and cherry. Medium-bodied, creamy-feeling flavors follow. It shows depth, detail, and length. The balance is impressive throughout. Best after 2026. 13.6% alcohol. Natural cork. 284 cases produced. Reviewed March 26, 2024.
Nicolas-Jay 2021 Own-Rooted Pinot Noir Willamette Valley $90
93 points, Cellar Stocker
This wine is a blend of Hyland, Nysa, and Estate vineyard fruit, with vines ranging from 31 to 46 years old. Aged 16 months in French oak (50% new), the aromas entice, with notes of dried herb, orange peel, clove, and strawberry. The red fruit-filled palate is medium-bodied and cranberry tart. The purity is dazzling, with the acid driving it. Best after 2026. 13.0% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 305 cases produced. Reviewed April 24, 2024.
Ponzi 2022 Pinot Noir Laurelwood District $47
93 points, Critic’s Choice
This is a blend of fruit from Avellana, Aurora, Linda Vista, Gemini, and Chehalem Crossing vineyards. It was fermented 10% whole cluster and aged 10 months in French oak (30% new). The aromas are subtle and nuanced, with notes of tea leaf, satsuma, red fruit, and crushed flower. The palate is flavorful, showing depth and dimension while remaining fleet of foot. It sails on the finish. Delicious stuff at a great price. 13.8% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 7,600 cases produced. Reviewed September 18, 2024.
Le Doubblé Troubblé Pinot Noir Columbia Gorge 2022 $30
92 points, Critic’s Choice
This wine spent 10 months in neutral oak. The aromas blossom in the glass, with appealing notes of black cherry, forest floor, cedar, and black tea. The palate brings sumptuous, polished, plump darker fruit flavors. The finish sticks around for a full 20 seconds. Exciting stuff at an eye-popping price. Reviewed July 8, 2024.
RHÔNE-STYLE BLENDS & RED BLENDS
Avennia 2022 Justine Red Wine Yakima Valley $45
94 points, Cellar Stocker
Grenache (61%) makes up the majority of this wine, with the rest Mourvèdre (22%) and Syrah. Fruit comes from Upland (Grenache), Heart of the Hill (Mourvèdre), and Oldfield (Syrah). It was fermented 20% whole cluster in concrete and stainless steel and subsequently aged 18 months in neutral French oak and concrete egg. The aromas explode from the glass, with notes of huckleberry, raspberry, tangerine, flower, and smoked meat. Seamless, palate-coating fruit flavors follow, showing depth but moving along gracefully. As always with this producer, there’s textural richness and intensity while also detail and sophistication. The finish hangs as long as you care to count. It’s a stunner, bringing outrageous purity. Best from 2026 to 2032. 14.6% alcohol. Natural cork. 469 cases produced. Reviewed September 18, 2024.
Kevin White 2022 La Fraternité Red Wine Yakima Valley $35
94 points, Critic’s Choice
This is a blend of 57% Grenache, 36% Mourvèdre, and 7% Syrah. Fruit comes from Upland, Olsen, WeatherEye, and Boushey vineyards, all top sites. The aromas are perfumed, with notes of white pepper, lavender, huckleberry, strawberry, tangerine peel, flower, and sweet herb, showing impressive complexity. The palate is soft and sumptuous, with crystalline purity. Red fruit and tangerine notes linger on the extended finish. It’s a knee-buckler, classic Kevin White, classic Yakima Valley. It’s also an absurd value. Decant. 14.9% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 325 cases produced. Reviewed April 24, 2024.
Top Source 2021 Syrah-Grenache Columbia Valley $30
94 points
Top Source is quickly establishing itself as a go-to producer for exceptional quality, well-priced wines. This blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah is an attention-getter. The aromas explode from the glass, with notes of flower, strawberry, smoked meat, fire pit, and black olive. The palate delivers on all that promise and more, mixing red and darker fruit with plentiful savory flavors. Floral accents run throughout. The finish goes the distance and then some, easily 60 seconds. Is this pound-for-pound the best Syrah-Grenache blend in the Northwest right now? Unequivocally yes. Run, do not walk. 13.8% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 692 cases produced. Reviewed April 24, 2024.
Two Vintners 2021 Oliver Red Wine Columbia Valley $50
94 points, Critic’s Choice
This is a blend of 80% WeatherEye Grenache, 15% Stone Tree Petite Sirah, and 5% Olsen Syrah. It was aged in 300L French oak hogshead barrels (50% new). The aromas bring notes of winter green, spearmint, and lavender in front of purple and blue fruit. The palate shows rich, layered, full-bodied cherry flavors. There’s impressive depth and focus. An outrageously long finish caps it off. It’s a wine that commands attention and gets it. 14.7% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 80 cases produced. Reviewed March 6, 2024.
Eight Bells 2020 Red Willow Vineyard Old Salt Yakima Valley $35
93 points, Critic’s Choice
This is a blend of two-thirds Sangiovese and one-third Cabernet Sauvignon. The aromas are completely captivating, with notes of whole cranberry, sour cherry, leather, black currant, and underbrush that show exquisite purity. The palate is medium-plus bodied, focused, and achingly pure. Tart acidity propels the flavors forward to a puckering finish. It’s a gorgeous wine, requiring food alongside it to be fully appreciated. Pair it with lamb ragu or a Bolognese. 14.1% alcohol. Glass stopper. 160 cases produced. Reviewed May 16, 2024.
Rocky Pond 2022 Stratastone Red Blend Rocky Reach $48
93 points, Critic’s Choice
This wine is near equal parts Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, coming from one of Washington’s youngest and most exciting new appellations. A blend of Double D and Clos CheValle vineyards, it was aged in French oak puncheons (30% new). Aromas of boysenberry, spice, brown stem, smoked meat, and red and darker fruit lead to full-bodied, sumptuous, palate-coating flavors. There’s impressive depth and dimension. The flavors hang on the finish. The purity is striking. Decant. 14.6% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 675 cases produced. Reviewed May 16, 2024.
SYRAH
Horsepower 2021 Sur Echalas Vineyard Syrah Walla Walla Valley $133
98 points, Cellar Stocker.
Vines at this vineyard are planted at high density, 4,840 vines per acre on stakes (sur echalas) and spaced 3×3 meter. One sniff and there’s no mistaking where and who this wine comes from. The aromas explode from the glass, with notes of soot, black olive tapenade, potpourri, dark roasted coffee bean, white pepper, and generous amounts of smoked meat. The palate is soft, sultry, and intensely flavorful while retaining grace and precision. A long, long savory-filled finish caps it off. It’s nothing short of an accomplishment of a wine. Best after 2026. 13.5% alcohol. Natural cork. 345 cases produced. Reviewed April 22, 2024.
Cimento 2022 Orselli Estate Vineyard Syrah The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater $225
96 points, Cellar Stocker
This is one of the first wines from a vineyard that was planted in 2018, but you’d never know the youthful age of the vines given the intensity and quality of the wine. Fruit was fermented in stainless steel, 28% whole cluster, with a 28-day skin maceration. It was subsequently aged 16 months in French oak (30% new). The aromas burst from the glass, revealing notes of black olive, smoked meat, and kirsch – a wine you could smell and be fully satisfied. But, oh, the palate. It’s creamy-feeling, rich, dense, layered, and enveloping – supremely textural and commanding. The flavors hang and expand on the 60-second finish. It’s sensational, a complete knee-buckler of a debut. Enjoy from 2026 to 2034. 14.7% alcohol. Natural cork. 301 cases produced. Reviewed December 16, 2024.
Sleight of Hand 2022 Borderlands Vineyard Badlands Syrah Walla Walla Valley $75
95 points, Critic’s Choice
Coming from a vineyard in the Rocks District, this wine was aged on lees 20 months in neutral oak. The aromas show some initial reduction. Beyond that are brooding notes of wet stone, plum, crushed flower, huckleberry, brown stem, and black olive. Full-feeling, palate coating, layered fruit and savory flavors follow. There’s impressive intensity and richness but also deftness. The balance is exceptional. The finish sails off into the distance. It’s a total ‘Wow!’ wine, as good of a wine as Sleight of Hand has produced to date. 14.5% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 100 cases produced. Reviewed December 16, 2024.
Gargantua 2021 Syrah Oregon $75
94 points, Cellar Stocker
Gargantua is a Syrah-focused project from Josh Bergström (Bergström wines). The aromas offer intriguing notes of black pepper, flower, herb, lemon zest, and a mixture of red and darker fruit, showing impressive freshness. The palate is lighter in style, tart and juicy. Chalky tannins back it up. The acid drives it. It’s completely captivating, with impeccable balance throughout. Enjoy after 2026. Pair it with peppercorn crusted pork loin. 13% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 504 cases produced. Reviewed June 7, 2024.
Saviah Syrah Walla Walla Valley 2021 $35
93 points, Critic’s Choice
Does anyone consistently deliver better quality-to-price ratio Walla Walla Valley Syrah than Saviah? This is a blend of fruit from Anna Marie, Lewis, and Watermill Vineyards. Fermented 20% whole cluster, it was subsequently aged 17 months in French oak (20% new). The aromas are arresting, with notes of olive, firepit, tangerine rind, tapenade, cherry, and plentiful dried flower accents. The palate is an explosion of blue fruit, savory notes, and fresh flower, delivering the soft, smooth flavors this appellation and producer are known for. It sticks around for 30-plus seconds on the finish, kicking it up a notch. Reviewed January 22, 2024.
OTHER VARIETAL REDS
Alta 2021 Weinbau Vineyard Petite Sirah Wahluke Slope $65
94 points, Critic’s Choice
Aged in French oak (33% new), the aromas of blueberry and huckleberry capture the senses, as do the spice accents. The palate is unabashedly full-bodied, rich, and intense, with waves of blue and black fruit flavors that coat the palate from end to end. A hyper-extended coffee and spice filled finish caps it off. It’s hedonism in a glass, outrageously full-throttle. 15.5% alcohol. Micro-agglomerated cork. 75 cases produced. Reviewed August 16, 2024.
Devison Southwind Vineyard Malbec Walla Walla Valley 2021 $65
94 points, Cellar Stocker
All of the fruit for this wine comes from Block 29 at this ridgeline vineyard. It was aged 20 months in second and third fill French oak. The aromas bring notes of tea leaves, dried herb, plum, cherry, dried orange peel, and raspberry. The palate is an explosion of raspberry, blood orange, plum, and green herb flavors, showing delicacy and purity. It sticks around for a long, long time on the finish. There’s pleasing purity and freshness, along with sneaky tannic structure. It’s an accomplishment of a wine. Give it additional time in bottle or a long decant. Best after 2026. Reviewed January 22, 2024.
Love & Squalor 2022 Gamay Noir Willamette Valley $32
93 points, Critic’s Choice
Half of the fruit for this wine comes from Methven Vineyard in Eola-Amity Hills, the rest from Sunnyside in the broader Willamette Valley. Fermented whole cluster, it was subsequently aged 10 months in neutral oak. White pepper, red berry, tangerine, and spice aromas lead to hyper-pure, elegant red fruit flavors. Vibrant acidity keeps it all in vivid focus. The purity is completely captivating. Eat your heart out, Pinot Noir. 13.8% alcohol. Natural cork. 200 cases produced. Reviewed February 5, 2024.
Hyatt 2022 Estate Saperavi Rattlesnake Hills $35
92 points, Critic’s Choice
This is a fascinating offering of a variety I have not otherwise seen from Washington. The aromas intrigue, with notes of peppery spice, blue fruit, and sea salt. The palate is fleshy and direct, loaded with primary fruit, while remaining fleet of foot. It bears some similarities to Dolcetto and, to a lesser extent, Barbera. For fans of Washington’s diversity – or just fans of delicious wines – it is well-worth seeking out. 13.9% alcohol. Screwcap. 280 cases produced. Reviewed August 16, 2024.
Sage Rat 2022 Barbera Yakima Valley $25
92 points, Critic’s Choice
Varietal offerings of Barbera are a relative rarity in Washington, with this offering begging the question, why? Fruit comes from Portteus Vineyard. It was whole cluster fermented with native yeast and bottled unfined and unfiltered. The aromas erupt from the glass, with piercingly pure notes of dark berry, plum, dried flower, and leaf. Medium-bodied, achingly pure, crunchy red and purple fruit flavors follow, supported by tart acidity. It’s a complete standout – among the more exciting wines I’ve tried this year. Seek it out. 13.0% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 210 cases produced. Reviewed July 8, 2024.
Bryn Mawr 2022 Estate Dolcetto Eola-Amity Hills $35
91 points, Critic’s Choice
This wine was aged 9 months in neutral oak. The aromas bring notes of tea leaf, flower, and blue fruit, showing pretty nuances. The palate is medium-bodied, tart, and initially tightly coiled. It shows pleasing purity. Food is required for full appreciation. Pair it with pork tenderloin with a blueberry balsamic glaze. 13.4% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 200 cases produced. Reviewed February 19, 2024.
CHARDONNAY
LucidWild Hidden Chardonnay Dundee Hills 2021 $95
95 points, Cellar Stocker
This wine was aged 12 months in French oak (25% new). The aromas bring notes of sweet spice, apple, pear, and mineral. The palate is on the lighter side of medium-bodied, showing exceptional nuance and detail. Light pineapple notes emerge on a finish that hangs and hangs, easily 45+seconds. Vibrant acidity runs throughout. It’s all about subtlety and grace and brings both in abundance. Enjoy after 2025.
Syncline 2022 Rainmaker Vineyard Chardonnay Columbia Gorge $55
94 points, Critic’s Choice
This offering is Syncline’s first-ever Chardonnay. The aromas show some initial reduction that clears with vigorous swirling. Beyond that are notes of crushed rock, Meyer lemon, and herb that show impressive clarity and definition. The palate is richly textural while still moving along at a brisk pace, with chiseled, crisp acidity that enlivens it. It’s extremely compelling, a wine well worth seeking out. Enjoy it on its own or at the dinner table. 12.5% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 120 cases produced.
Penner-Ash 2022 Chardonnay Willamette Valley $45
93 points, Cellar Stocker
Aged 10 months in French oak (41% new), the aromas entice, with subtle notes of cream, caramel, spice, and apple, showing plenty of nuance. The palate is broad in feel, with exquisitely rich and textured stone fruit flavors. Toasty notes linger on the finish. It’s a thoroughly compelling offering of this variety, mixing power and grace with spot on balance throughout. Best after 2025. 13.5% alcohol. Natural cork. Case production not provided.
Novelty Hill 2023 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Chardonnay Royal Slope $26
92 points, Critic’s Choice
Winemaker Mike Januik is a Chardonnay savant, always crafting one of Washington’s most compelling offerings. Better still? The wine is exceptionally priced and accessible. On this vintage, the aromas draw you into the glass, with notes of corn silk, squash, pear, and a whiff of butterscotch, showing pretty nuances. The medium-bodied palate is poised, textured, and flavorful. As always with this wine, everything is in its right place. Dee-licious. 13.5% alcohol. Natural cork. 1,964 cases produced. Reviewed December 16, 2024.
SAUVIGNON BLANC, SÉMILLON & BLENDS
DeLille 2023 Chaleur Blanc Columbia Valley $40
94 points, Cellar Stocker
This is a 69/31% blend of Sauvignon Blanc (Sagemoor, Phinney Hill, Olsen, Boushey, Vineyard 10) and Sémillon (Klipsun, Boushey, Conner Lee). Fermented in French oak (42% new) along with stainless steel (12%), the aromas are tightly coiled, opening with notes of toast, pink grapefruit, herb, tropical fruit, nut oil, and fig. Full-bodied, layered pineapple, kiwi, and papaya flavors follow, bringing outrageous richness and texture. An extremely long finish caps it off. It’s glorious, drinking best with a very light chill. Enjoy from 2025 to 2033. 13.6% alcohol. Natural cork. 7,917 cases produced. Reviewed July 30, 2024.
Pepper Bridge 2022 Estate Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Walla Walla Valley $36
94 points, Critic’s Choice
This wine is a blend of fruit from Summit View (41%), Les Collines (35%), and Seven Hills vineyards. Blended with 10% Semillon, it was aged in French oak (7% new) and concrete egg. It’s aromatically fragrant, with notes of kiwi, herb, citrus, flower, and papaya, leaning into the tropical. A full-bodied, richly textured palate follows. Tart, lemony flavors cap off the long finish. There’s richness, yes, but it’s the balance that propels this wine forward and separates it. It’s tremendously impressive and just plain delicious – one of the wines of the vintage. 13.9% alcohol. Natural cork. 700 cases produced. Reviewed March 26, 2024.
J. Bookwalter 2022 Readers Sauvignon Blanc Columbia Valley $18
92 points, Value Pick
This wine is 77% Horse Heaven Hills fruit (Alder Ridge), with the rest from Columbia Valley (Conner Lee). Aged in stainless steel for 6 months, the aromas pop, with notes of fresh herb, snap pea pod, whole kiwi, passion fruit, banana, and melon rind. Full-bodied, broad-feeling tropical fruit flavors follow, driven along by vibrant, lemony acidity. A lip-smacking finish seals the deal. It’s dynamite. 13.2% alcohol. Screwcap. 3,050 cases produced. Reviewed April 24, 2024.
OTHER VARIETAL WHITES
Brooks 2021 Bois Joli Vineyard Riesling Eola-Amity Hills $28
94 points, Critic’s Choice
This vineyard is planted on marine sedimentary soils. Grapes were native yeast fermented and the resulting wine was aged in stainless steel. The aromas burst from the glass, with notes of lime leaf, jasmine, white peach, and flower, with the variety unmistakable. Off-dry, full feeling, richly flavorful, exquisitely balanced stone fruit and citrus flavors follow. Bright acidity keeps it all vivid and focused. It sails into the distance on the absurdly long finish. It’s a truly spectacular interpretation of the variety, enjoyable on its own while also offering great versatility on the dinner table. 12.0% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 275 cases produced. Reviewed March 26, 2024.
Chateau Ste. Michelle & Dr. Loosen 2020 Evergreen Vineyard Eroica XLC Riesling Columbia Valley $45
94 points, Critic’s Choice
There is not another wine like this in the state, aged 22 months in large oak casks on lees. The aromas bring notes of diesel, honeysuckle, dried apricot, fresh herb, and lemon, showing impressive subtlety. The palate is completely dry and broad in feel, with soaring acidity. It’s spectacular. Riesling fans, this is required reading. 12.0% alcohol. Natural cork. 496 cases produced. Reviewed May 16, 2024
Liminal 2022 WeatherEye Vineyard High Canyon Series Viognier Red Mountain $50
94 points, Critic’s Choice
Fermented and aged on lees for 8 months in neutral French oak, this is a vibrantly aromatic wine, with focused notes of honeysuckle, peach, apricot, and tangerine zest – immediately identifiable as Viognier. Full-bodied, rounded, richly textured stone fruit flavors follow. The flavors are penetrating and intense but exquisitely balanced. A layered mouthfeel ups the interest, as does a long, long finish. It brings the variety’s richness, but, unlike most, it doesn’t bring the heat along with it. It’s a standout – the best Viognier I’ve had from the Washington side of the Columbia Valley. 13.8% alcohol. Natural cork. 47 cases produced. Reviewed September 18, 2024.
Amos Rome 2023 Estate Albariño Lake Chelan $28
93 points, Critic’s Choice
Amos Rome is making benchmark Washington white wines and raising the bar for the Lake Chelan appellation at the same time. Fruit for this wine comes from the winery’s High Blossom Vineyard, one of the highest sites in the Columbia Valley. It comes from third leaf fruit harvested on September 18th. The aromas are expressive, with notes of citrus zest, freshly peeled red apple, honeydew melon, flower, whole lemon, tangerine, and apricot, showing outrageous nuance. The medium-bodied, richly textured stone fruit flavors are framed by vibrant, lip-smacking acidity. Orange rind notes speckle the finish. It’s a head turner, the best example of this variety as I’ve had from Washington. 12.8% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 90 cases produced. Reviewed June 7, 2024.
Nysa 2023 Marsanne Columbia Gorge $45
92 points, Critic’s Choice
Fruit for this wine comes from Threemile Vineyard. It was aged 7 months in neutral French oak. The aromas are compelling, with notes of pear, white apricot, clove, crushed rock, herb, and spice. A full-bodied, flavorful stone fruit filled palate follows. It’s completely charming. 14.2% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. Case production not provided. Reviewed December 16, 2024.
SPARKLING WINES
Elentone 2020 Brut Columbia Valley $52
93 points, Critic’s Choice
Elentone consistently makes some of Washington’s most exciting sparkling wine. This is another delicious example. It’s a blend of 83% Chardonnay and 17% Pinot Noir, with fruit coming from Clos CheValle Vineyard in the Lake Chelan appellation. Aged for 36 months, the aromas are penetrating, with notes of lemon zest, brioche, and flower. Creamy-feeling cinnamon, vanilla, and spice flavors follow, showing pleasing subtlety and nuance. It’s a big time winner for the winery and for Washington. Seek it out. 12.5% alcohol. Natural cork. 80 cases produced. Reviewed December 16, 2024.
Argyle 2019 Knudsen Vineyard Brut Oregon Sparkling Wine Dundee Hills $60
93 points, Critic’s Choice
Coming from a vineyard planted in the 1970s, this is a blend of 96% Pinot Noir and 4% Chardonnay. It was disgorged in March of 2023. Almost a full five years old, the aromas show pleasing aged and autolytic notes. There’s also cherry, citrus, herb, baked bread, and flower. The strawberry and white grapefruit flavors exhibit the textural complexity and weight one would expect from a wine of this age. It sticks around on the citrus-filled finish. 12.5% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 670 cases produced. Reviewed May 16, 2024.
Tirriddis NV R.4 Traditional Method Blanc de Gris Sparkling Pinot Gris Rattlesnake Hills $38
90 points, Critic’s Choice
Tirriddis is making a name for itself by providing well-priced, well-made Washington sparkling wine. The aromas here are enchanting, with notes of herb, lemon zest, and spice. A medium-bodied, bright, flavorful palate follows. It’s a big time winner, with truly impressive acidity. 11.90% alcohol. TCA-free micro-agglomerated cork. 380 cases produced.
This article has been updated.
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Thanks for selecting our Champoux Vineyard Bdx blend. It is the last vintage from the first vineyard where we began making wine in 1989.
Quite welcome, Dave! What a run!
Thanks Dave for Showing all the balanced – beautiful flavors from Champoux Vineyards for 35 Years.
From a Rookie from Boeing Wine Club to a Top Winemaker in the World of Washington Wine Industry!
My Cellar is full – so I’ll drink to That & Soos Creek.
Hi Sean. Thanks for the kind words for our 2023 Amos Rome Albariño Lake Chelan AVA. For what was only third leaf fruit, Travis Clark did a great job bringing out beautiful Albariño flavors. We’re really excited to see how that block develops going forward.
Quite welcome, Tom! I’m so impressed with what you all are doing at Amos Rome.
Wonderful selections Sean! That Nysa Marsanne is a thing of beauty.
Thanks, Sarah!