Barrister Reds Continue to Impress

Added Note: Barrister Winery 2003 Red Mountain Merlot received a silver medal at the Tri-Cities Wine Festival on November 12, 2005 and was also was voted as the People’s Choice.

Those attorneys from Spokane are back again and they’re making my life difficult.

No, there’s nothing litigious involved, it’s just attorney/winemakers Greg Lipsker and Michael White from Barrister Winery, producing another round of red wines that are all so good, I don’t know which one to choose as a favorite.

But let me try anyway.

For starters, their 2003 Cabernet Franc (about $25) took best of show honors at this years Northwest Wine Summit. With over 900 wines entered in the competition, it goes without saying that this is an outstanding wine.

Also currently available is the 2003 Red Mountain Merlot (about $29), a huge wine packed with dark fruit flavors and traces of chocolate. Drink now or cellar for another two to three years.

But I really think my current favorite is the 2003 Walla Walla Valley Merlot (about $29). This is another big, complex wine with perhaps a bit of a silkier finish than the Red Mountain Merlot. Quantities are limited, so don’t waste time in purchasing this wine.

Barrister wines are available at select Seattle restaurants and also at Compass Wines in Anacortes. More information: (509) 465-3591 or www.barristerwinery.com.