Maryhill Vineyards 2003 Proprietor’s Reserve (about $36): A big, plump, fruit bomb if there ever was one. Loaded with dark currant and berry flavors, the wine may be too fat for some tastes. It’s over 15% alcohol and balanced by 1.4% sugar, which makes the wine almost borderline port-like, so take note. Another thing that […]

March, 2006 Update: Bad news! I received word from Michael Burnett that the ’03 vintage has sold out (although you might find a stray bottle here and there)! But look for the ’04 vintage to be released sometime during spring, 2006. Chuckanut Ridge 2003 Bad Bunny (about $18): Winemakers John Powers and Michael Burnett smash […]

Basel Cellars 2002 (about $24): This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc absolutely rocked my world. Gobs of big, lush, jammy berry fruit flavors and a touch of spice on the finish make it one of the best wines I tasted in calendar year 2005. This is the type of red wine from […]

Cascade Cliffs 2003 (about $17): One thing I like about this winery is that they’re not afraid to use types of grapes that youwon’t usually find in the mainstream. For whites, they’ve previously produced a delicious wine using the Symphony grape and for this red wine recommendation, the Barbera. This is a great little red […]