Canoe Ridge 2001 (about $15): This is no ordinary table wine. It was a little austere when I first tried it, but I revisited it the next day and it really opened up nicely. Beautiful nose of fresh berries and loads of raspberry and red cherry flavors. This blend of Columbia Valley Cabernet and Merlot […]

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 […]