Coeur d’Alene Cellars Has Local Ties

Most people like to hear a “local boy makes good” story. I think a “local boy makes good wine” story sounds even better. Let me fill you in on the details.

Bob Harris, a graduate of Sehome High School, is co-owner of newcomer Coeur d’Alene Cellars, located about 45 minutes east of Spokane. Along with co-owner and general manager Kimber Gates and winemaker Warren Schutz, Harris is producing some truly amazing wines that deserve your consideration.

On a recent visit I sampled their 2003 Viognier (about $18), a lovely, fragrant white wine with a beautiful, deep golden color. It has plenty of subtle apricot, peach and melon flavors and a toasty, creamy finish.

I also enjoyed the 2002 Syrah (about $25), made from Walla Walla and Yakima Valley grapes. The wine is wonderfully complex with dark berry flavors and a distinctively plumy/spicy finish that is ultra-soft. This vintage, as well as the ‘03 Viognier, remains in limited quantities and the new releases of each wine will most likely be available later this year.

If you get an opportunity to visit the newly appointed, immaculate tasting room, be sure to try both the 2003 No. 6 Red (about $16) and the 2003 Meritage (about $25) which are currently offered only at the winery.

Coeur d’Alene Cellars wines can be found in the wine section of Bellingham-area Haggen stores. More information: (208) 664-2336 or www.cdacellars.com.