WENATCHEE ◆ LEAVENWORTH ◆ CHELAN ◆ AND ALL OF NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON
OOTHILLS September-October 2017
THE WINE ISSUE Crayelle Cellars wins top honor in competition
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September / October 2017
EDITOR’S LETTER
The people factor C
raig and Danielle Mitrakul make for a great Foothills cover. The Crayelle Cellars owners are as photogenic as they are tremendous winemakers and genuinely nice people. Congrats to them for earning top honors in this year’s Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition.
Crossing paths with wine industry folks like Craig and Danielle has been one of the favorite parts of my
Foothills job. This issue hits the street right around the same time as the Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival at the Town Toyota Center. In the past seven years, the event, which is sponsored by Foothills Magazine, has evolved to include breweries, distilleries and cidermakers. Wine, though, remains the core, with more than 30 wineries — most of them from North Central Washington — pouring their best. One thing you’ll see at WW&FF that you don’t necessarily see at similar events is the winemakers and support staff making time to chat and socialize with each other. There is a real camaraderie there. Most don’t see each other as competition, but rather as colleagues. I’m confident that our regional wine industry has a bright future ahead, not simply based on the quality of the wine, but also on the quality of the people doing the work.
At 112 pages, this issue marks the largest Foothills in its nearly seven-year history. It took some work to get the issue off to press, but filling the pages with interesting stories and results from this year’s WW&FF wine judging is happy work. Thank you to the businesses that see the value of Foothills advertising. My thanks also go out to our sales staff — David Anderson, Kathy Asher, Kristen Focht, Emily Geisler and Janette Morris — who work the phones and pound the pavement to sell ads. Nancy Phillips, Karen Kell, Michelle Naranjo and Lindsay Francis in our office also deserve credit for helping me pull this issue together. Your work is very much appreciated. And thanks to you, our readers, who make it all worthwhile.
Marco Martinez, editor foothills@wenatcheeworld.com
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Focus A
s we flip the calendar from August to September, there’s still plenty of fun to be had in North Central Washington’s great outdoors. Still, it’s not a bad idea to keep an eye on approaching
fall. You’ll find our advertisers have both notions covered as you peruse the next four pages. It’s part of our ongoing feature we call Focus that allows advertisers to spotlight the things they do best. September / October 2017
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Contents 40 Happy buzz
Harvesting the sweet work of bees
14 Rockin’ landmark 16 Modern posh
A Fast 5 look at Wenatchee’s geologic icon
Seattle couple’s second home has a river view
48 Higher ground
Hiking Hart’s Pass isn’t as hard as you might think
24 26.2, Bavarian style A behind-the scenes look at Oktoberfest Marathon
32 A happy home
Eron Drew finds her niche up the Chumstick
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60 Winning wines Full results from the 2017 Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival
82 An outsider’s perspective
Wine judge Ellen Landis crushes on NCW wines
OOTHILLS A BI-MONTHLY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE ABOUT NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON
Publisher Rufus Woods rwoods@wenatcheeworld.com Managing editor Cal FitzSimmons (509) 665-1176 fitzsimmons@wenatcheeworld.com Editor Marco Martinez (509) 664-7149 martinez@wenatcheeworld.com General Manager, Advertising and sales Andrea Andrus (509) 664-7136 andrus@wenatcheeworld.com Design Nancy Phillips Contributing editor Russ Hemphill
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Proofreader Joanne Saliby • Allergy
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Foothills Magazine is published bi-monthly by World Publishing, 14 N. Mission St., Wenatchee, WA, 98801. Subscriptions: $14.99 annually Send check or money order to: Foothills, Subscriptions 14 N. Mission St., Wenatchee, WA, 98801 or email foothills@wenatcheeworld.com Copyright 2017 with all rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.
COVER PHOTO: Photo by Julie Burdick. Crayelle Cellars owners Craig and Danielle Mitrakul pose with a bottle of their 2016 Albariño, which judges selected as Best of Show in the 2017 Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition.
1201 S. Miller St. Wenatchee, WA 98801
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FAST FIVE
BY MIKE IRWIN
Saddle Rock edition 1
THAT’S SOME ROCK
Hey, baby, whatcha think of this upthrust igneous extrusion? No, not that. We’re talking about the pokey-up double outcroppings that form Saddle Rock, the much-loved, much-photographed Wenatchee landmark created about 30 million years ago and revealed — ta-daaa! — in more recent millennia by erosion and landslides. Gotta love that volcanic andesite, yessiree.
2
THE HIKE IS HOW FAR UP?
Sure, Saddle Rock is Wenatchee’s geologic icon, but that doesn’t make the hike any less sweaty. The 1.5-mile trail winds about 1,500 feet along old four-wheeler tracks and gravel paths up to eye-popping views that — believe us — make the huff-and-puff challenge all worthwhile. Bring water and ignore the smug smiles of Spandex’d trail runners.
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3
NOT YOUR USUAL DEVIL-HORNED SPIRES
Oddball stuff: The Wenatchee Druids celebrated 2016’s spring equinox atop Saddle Rock with chants and a sacrifice of beef jerky. A university professor thinks it’s possible the Rock’s outcroppings were used by ancient peoples as a type of Stonehenge sundial. A Wenatchi tribal legend says the spires are bickering bears turned to stone.
4
SADDLED WITH THAT NAME
“Saddle Rock” graces two Wenatchee streets (a Drive and a Loop), a popular brewery, a pet resort, a music school, a plumber, a tech company, an all-male transition house, an adult family home, an embroidery company, a housing development, a church … and who knows what else? We lean toward the name as two words, because the one-word spelling (no space) tumbles off the tongue. A fella could get hurt.
5
NEW TRAILHEAD AMENITIES
From Paleogenic lava flows a gazillion years ago to paved parking today, Saddle Rock is in constant transformation. The latest upheaval — well, sort of — is Saddle Rock Gateway, a slick, improved trailhead that includes 82 parking spaces, picnic shelters, water fountains and an amenity squatting cavemen and cavegals would have loved: restrooms. Now you have no excuse not to saddle up for Saddle Rock.
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INSIDE HOME STORY BY DEE RIGGS PHOTOS BY MIKE BONNICKSEN
New with a
view
1930s cabin gives way to modern home
A fence around the large patio gives guests a safe place to take in views of the Wenatchee River and surrounding hillsides. Draping high in the foreground are branches from a large sycamore tree that Anne Preston favors for its beauty and for the shade it provides. 16
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A historied property
Yellow chairs provide a smash of color to the kitchen. The flooring is Italian tile, the countertops are concrete and the cabinets are dark wood.
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A small cabin originally topped the property that is now owned by Anne and Leon Preston. The cabin had been moved there from Upper Sunnyslope in the early 1930s by Samuel J. Clark, who also planted the big sycamore tree that is highly valued by the Prestons. Clark also planted various species of evergreen trees, along with willow and aspen trees. “He hauled water up the slope from the Wenatchee River and lost 35 pounds that hot summer until he built a pump house that still stands below the house,” Anne says. The Prestons bought the property from the estate of Ann Baker, who had previously owned the land as Ann Greer with her then-husband, Charles Greer. The Greers had purchased the land in 1955. Before that, it was owned by Richard and Lola Mae Allstot.
Numerous large windows reflect the hillsides above the Wenatchee River that can be seen from outside the Preston’s great room.
featuring cabinetry from
W
hen Anne and Leon Preston first saw their future property in Lower Sunnyslope off Chatham Hill Road, the house on it was in serious disarray. “There was a tree through it and snow in the bedrooms,” Anne says. “It was horrible.” But they also saw potential. The house stood on a three-quarter acre lot overlooking the Wenatchee River, it was close to town but far enough away for a country-feel, and there was this big, old sycamore tree on the southwest side. That tree, says Anne, provided shade where they envisioned a large patio. “Sitting on the patio, we have a sense of relaxation,” she says. “The
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area is filled with birds and it’s just a peaceful retreat for us, and for friends and family.” The Prestons live in the Montlake area of Seattle. She is a sales executive for a multi-national food company. He is recently retired as director of field education in the School of Social Work at the University of Washington. When Anne first saw the property in the mid 1970s, she was enchanted with the thought of being in a place where the sun often shines and the pace of life is slower. She had come to Wenatchee with a friend for the annual Apple Blossom Festival and visited the Chatham Hill property owned by her friend’s parents. She told her friend that she would like to buy the property if it ever became available, and that happened in 2001. 20
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Top: In the great room, large windows provide views of the patio area and the hillsides above the Wenatchee River. Middle: A large, wood-encased fireplace is the focal point in the Preston’s great room. The main living areas feature neutral tones of gray and beige. Bottom: Live-wood edges, covered in bark, create a rustic look to the contemporary house.
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Top: The master bedroom features bluegreen hues. Bottom: Small vases, joined into one unit, give Anne Preston a place to display small flowers on the kitchen island. Salt and pepper shakes add to the arrangement.
foot house is a 500-square foot guest house, which is below the detached garage. Anne says she thinks Wenatchee “will be the next big thing as far as Seattle retirement goes.” and she says she and Leon have found Wenatchee to be “just the friendliest town. People aren’t stressed like they are in the big city.” And, at the house, she says, they have found “just a sense of serenity and peace. It’s got a great vibe. When we come here I just kind of decompress. It’s quite peaceful and pretty.” F
All-star crew “We bought the place for the property value,” Anne says. The Prestons acquired the land and cabin that same year and fixed up the old house for summer-use only, making do with that for several years. In 2013, they hired an architect who helped them create what Anne says is a new, boomerang-shaped house that blocks the wind, makes use of the sycamore tree and takes in the best views. And lots of big windows offer views from the great room and the kitchen. “I told the architect that I wanted to walk in the front door and see all 22
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the way into the house,” Anne says. “I also wanted a great room where everybody could interact in one big room.” The kitchen and great room are open and airy with gray and beige tones throughout. “I find those neutral colors very soothing,” Anne says. The flooring is Italian tile, the countertops are concrete and the cabinets are dark wood. The focal point in the great room is the fireplace, which offers a rustic look to the contemporary house with its live-edge wood covered in bark. Complementing the 2,700-square
The Prestons say they were impressed with the skill and workmanship of several firms that worked on their house. Among them: • Architect Jeffrey P. deRoulet of Seattle • Contractors Gar and Tim McDonald of McDonald Building in Entiat • Mauro Gonzales of Perdomo Landscaping in Wenatchee, who restored and landscaped the property
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To our good neighbors, to our welcome guests, to our generous hosts, to our friendly visitors, to our valued coworkers, to our many friends in the Wenatchee Valley, throughout North Central Washington, and beyond …
Salud … Cheers! … L’chaim … Proost … Kippis … Santé / A la votre … Prost … Slainte … Salute / Cin cin … Kanpai … Prosit … Skal … Na zdrowie … Saude … Noroc / Sanatate … Na zdravie … Na zdravje … Chok dee … Lechyd da … Sei gesund … To your health!
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September / October 2017
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NCW RECREATION
STORY BY MARLENE FARRELL PHOTOS BY KEVIN FARRELL
A marathon effort A lot of work goes into putting on the Oktoberfest Marathon
Runners stretch and socialize before the race start.
T
he 13th running of the Oktoberfest Marathon will draw 2,400 runners from the Northwest to Leavenworth on Sept. 30. To have a successful marathon, a runner thinks about details. She’ll have her race-ready breakfast, nonchafing clothes and will tie her shoelaces just so. Everything else is left to the organizers. So what does it take to put on the Oktoberfest Marathon, covering miles 24
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of trails and roads? It’s a marathon effort, to say the least. Lynda Finegold-Brine, her late husband, Ted Finegold, and their good friends Ian and Wendy Crossland hatched the dream of the Oktoberfest and Wenatchee Marathons in 2005, with a large portion of the proceeds going toward cancer research. Their organization is now called TedDriven in honor of Ted.
The preparations for this year’s Oktoberfest race started almost the day after last year’s race. Lynda and the Crosslands have a post-race discussion about what can be improved and select a date for the next year’s race. After a two-month break, they start updating the website, designing the race T-shirt and medal and reviewing the event permit with the city. Much of the early work is spent sitting at a computer and making phone calls. September / October 2017
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Clockwise from top: Volunteers Meleah Butruille and Caiti Velazquez sort participant T-shirts. Race organizer Lynda Finegold-Brine has bike duty as she leads half-marathon leader Evan Williams through the course last year. From left, Wendy and Ian Crossland and Lynda FinegoldBrine, founders and owners of the TedDriven marathons. 26
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The five days before the race are dedicated to getting supplies out of storage, making supply runs and setting up the start/finish area. This area must accommodate not only racers, but also check-in tables, portable toilets, timing tents, food and drink tables, a medical tent, a massage tent and space for hundreds of cars. It’s a logistical puzzle that must be solved every year. “Wendy, Lynda and I are co-race directors, which is a nice way of saying we need to be prepared and responsible for anything and everything,” Ian explained. “Before each event, we create an event guide for ourselves with the timeline and duties, divide those duties amongst ourselves, and then brace ourselves for the surprise events and challenges that always unfold during a race.” The Finegold and Crossland children have grown up with the marathon. Their ages range from 9 to 15. “It’s a part of their lives too. We make it a family event,” said Lynda. TedDriven has a fleet of dedicated partnering organizations, including their friend and volunteer coordinator Shelley Jackson, because each race needs 150-200 helpers to run smoothly. The bulk of the partners run aid stations — 10 volunteers at each one. They’re filling hundreds of cups of water in advance of the stampeding mob. Then they line up, each holding out two cups so the runners don’t have to slow down. Race day starts at 4 a.m. for the co-directors. One of Ian’s many jobs is to recheck the mile markers that have been set, according to GPS locations, the day before. Last year Ian found several that needed resetting in town where drunken Oktoberfest revelers had shuffled them. When the starter didn’t show up, Wendy took on the duty of race countdown. Every year Lynda hops on her bike to serve as lead biker for the half marathon. The course requires road crossings and lane closures that could irk local commuters. TedDriven has tweaked the course several times, seeking to achieve a runnable, interesting course that doesn’t slow traffic flow. They get it professionally recertified every time they change it. Runners don’t think about all this;
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Top: Marathoner Briana Butler races through the fall colors along the course last year. Bottom: Marathon supplies include mile markers, banners, cones, water and boxes of energy gels. 28
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they just want their right-of-way, mile markers, aid stations and a clear shot to the finish line. Championing the cause of cancer research has always been at the forefront of why TedDriven hosts two marathons a year. “It’s never a question of whether we’re doing this,” said Wendy. “It’s just a part of our lives that is super meaningful. We envision our kids taking this on when we’re 90.” “It all started in our living room. We wanted to make a difference,” Lynda said. Ian’s mom had recently succumbed to breast cancer, so cancer research was their cause, and in the Wenatchee Valley, there was an opportunity for two marathons that could capitalize on sunny, mild weather in the spring and fall and spectacular scenery. This savvy, motivated group of professionals, who also had a lot of competitive athletic experience, could tackle all the other marathon details. The two marathons raise an average of $25,000 each year for Dr.
Sandra Ryeom’s cutting edge cancer research lab at the University of Pennsylvania. Lynda explained, “Most money for research comes from grants that include restrictions. Dr. Ryeom has said that it really matters and helps her research that our donations are unrestricted.” She accounts for which projects and programs are directly supported by TedDriven. Dr. Ryeom is dedicated to TedDriven, and they consider her a friend. “She has a picture of Ted in her lab to keep her students motivated,” said Wendy. “We have toured her lab with our kids. She has come out and run the race, and she gave a talk about her research to race participants and the community at large.” In addition, TedDriven partners with local organizations, like soccer teams, PTAs and preschools, who receive further funds in exchange for running aid stations. “This is hugely personal for me,” Lynda said. When her husband Ted died of apocrine carcinoma in 2010, their determination increased. Every year there are cancer survivors on the course, as well as groups of people running in support of someone going through treatment. Pam Brulotte, a survivor, has had perfect attendance at the Wenatchee Marathon, even while she was going through her own treatment. “I do it to honor our friend, Ted, who passed away as a result of cancer. After my own experience surviving breast cancer I know first hand how important finding new cures are. I am also very close to the organizers and volunteers who make this race a wonderful experience for all!” The challenge for the Crosslands is that they do not live here anymore. They do their portion of the planning from Bogotá, Colombia. They moved there in 2006 to teach and learn Spanish. Thinking it would be temporary, they have since made it their new home, and Ian is now the head of the Los Nogales pre-K through 12th grade school where Wendy is also a teacher. The Crosslands still have a home in Cashmere and return for holidays and the marathons. As organizers, they always have to be ready for the unexpected, such as medical issues and weather related challenges. Thankfully, the issues have been minor, primarily dehydra-
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A crowd gathers near the finish line at last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s race. tion, on days when the temperatures were unseasonably warm. Twice there were bigger concerns. In 2012, the forest fires had them on high alert. TedDriven sent messages to their racers and made a final call to continue with the race when air quality was satisfactory a week before. In 2014, the Wenatchee Marathon was less than a week after the Boston Marathon bombing. Reporters arrived, seeing how they would handle the possible threat of another bombing. TedDriven had a meeting with local police, bumped up security and sent messages to racers reassuring them of the safety measures in place. These races bring in thousands of tourists to boost the local economy. Leavenworth has come to recognize that runners are a healthy population of tourists. The predominantly female participants come to run, stay in local hotels, shop and celebrate at Oktoberfest. Racers have come from virtually 30
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Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medal for finishers included a built-in bottle opener.
Post-race treats are stacked in advance of the race.
every state, as well as internationally. The marathons have touched the lives of cancer survivors and those who have triumphed at their races. Gratitude flows both ways. “I would like to thank the thousands of participants and volunteers who have made these events possible over the last 13 years,” Ian said. “It is a true pleasure and honor to play a role in creating both a magical day of racing, and also a vehicle for raising funds for good causes. In many ways, the races feel like small, but meaningful celebrations of life.” F
Age group winners from last year’s race included (left to right) Maya Lovlien (overall winner), Lisa Bedard and Milena Arthur.
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HEALTHY LIVING
STORY BY RACHEL DILORENZO PHOTOS BY PAUL T. ERICKSON
Peppers ripen in a greenhouse as Eron Drew carries harvested organic vegetables to the processing shop.
Eron Drew is home at Tierra Learning Center
â&#x20AC;&#x153;H
ey!â&#x20AC;? the petite blonde yells out a welcome. With her signature visor, long blonde braid and happy grin, Eron Drew is constantly flitting all around Leavenworth and nearby Plain. As manager of Tierra Retreat Center, she makes the work look easy. Always upbeat and efficient, Eron directs everything from meeting potential clients, to supervising staff, to coordinating events. Eron feels lucky to have found a manageable work/life balance: she splits her time between the retreat and Tierra Garden Organics, an on-site farm. Husband Willy Stockman is the farm manager. Their children, Leif , 10, and Ingrid, 7, are growing up gardening, harvesting and doing chores alongside their parents. The retreat center is tucked away in Wenatchee National Forest, in Sunitsch Canyon. Situated between Leavenworth and Plain,
Eron Drew and husband Willy Stockman moved to Leavenworth in 2004. She manages the Tierra Retreat Center, while he manages Tierra Gardens Organics, a five-acre spread on the same property.
Finding life balance 32
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it’s an idyllic and peaceful setting. Groups come to this beautiful woodland hideaway for weddings, retreats, meetings and corporate training events. Tierra Learning Center encompasses more than just the retreat center, with a wide variety of programs: Tierra Village (offering housing for adults with developmental differences); TRAILS (life-skills education), Tierra Garden Organics, Mountain Sprouts Preschool, MF Pottery, Tierra Forestry and Biochar. Originally from Wisconsin, the couple met in college (where both studied earth sciences). Moving to Washington in 2000, they had thoughts of outdoor adventuring and grad school. It was meant to be a temporary move. But as Eron now admits, Washington is wonderful. “I love all of it!” she exclaimed, “I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else at this point. The people are amazing, so open and friendly.” The newlyweds began organic farming in increments. It started with a couple of heads of lettuce in a window box outside their first apartment. Later, at their first house (on the west side), “we tilled up the yard with a rented tractor, and put in a 15x25
Bees pollinate scallion seed pods on the organic farm. Manager Willy Stockman hand picks the pods for seeds.
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Eron Drew manages the Tierra Retreat Center near Leavenworth and Plain. 34
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Lavender grown at Tierra Garden Organics is used for display and ambiance. The wedding event grounds are in the background. September / October 2017
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Top: Eron Drew makes her way to cut another bin of cilantro, walking past the recently built shop which was painted by local artists Rusty and Amanda Gibbs. Bottom: Willy Stockman cuts arugula for market. 36
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garden with beautiful raised beds and a lovely little cedar gate ... ” she said wistfully. Upon relocating to Leavenworth in 2004, they became caretakers for a property with a large, established garden. After expanding it, they had an abundance of excess produce. “We had space to grow a lot of very interesting varieties, like french melons and quinoa,” Eron explained happily. They wound up selling their produce to Kim Lohse at the original Farmhouse Table (which was next to Anjou Bakery). “Kim was so encouraging. I don’t know that we would have ever really started farming without her support.” Eron found herself spending all her free time gardening. Finally, she decided to try it as a full-time occupation. She started as assistant garden manager at Tierra. Later, the couple tag-teamed playing garden manager, after baby Leif came along. “Then, for some crazy reason, I wanted to gain a little extra experience
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Top: Tierra Garden Organics occupies nearly 5 acres in the Sunitsch Canyon between Leavenworth and Plain. Bottom: Eggplant is one of Eron Drew’s favorites out of the garden. She said she likes it fried in panko and dipped in homemade marinara sauce. 38
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in garden management, so I became the organic garden manager at Sleeping Lady as well,” she said. She spent six seasons running back and forth between Tierra and Sleeping Lady, while raising their two young children. Eventually, she resigned from Sleeping Lady. In the meantime, Willy had tripled the size of Tierra’s garden. “We are now farming about five acres of diversified organic veggies, and have one full-time employee, and several volunteers,” she continued, “Each year, we say we aren’t going to make the garden any bigger ... but I have been adding fruit trees, berry bushes, herbs and flowers at our own house.” As for the retreat center position, Eron fell into that as well. She started working there 10 hours per week. “Each year, I added on another 10 hours a week, until I became a fulltime employee. The workload has increased in a corresponding manner,” she added, “It was a great way to move into the job, because the kids also become more independent with every passing year. It helps that the retreat center and the farm are located on the same property, so I can pop back and
forth from each as my schedule allows. Our kids have grown up in this atmosphere, so they’re also very comfortable with the routine.” How does she manage her busy schedule, while raising young children and maintaining a household? “I’ve been asking myself this question a lot lately. I rarely sit still and don’t watch much TV. I am very efficient with my time. Actually, when I was a kid, I read the book, Cheaper by the Dozen. In the story, the father is an efficiency expert. I started to model my behavior off of his.” Eron also credits her husband. “Willy and I work really well together as a team. Together, we have remodeled a house, built our current house, and built our own business. None of this would have been possible,” she said, “ if we didn’t really enjoy being partners.” When they’re not up to their elbows in cucumbers and squash, the duo sells produce at the Leavenworth farmers’ market. But, that’s not all. Willy stays busy with freelance carpentry, snow removal and gourmet cooking. “He’s best at quasi-Thai and Indian dishes,” according to his wife, who has yet another gig. She writes a regular Master Gardener column for The Wenatchee World. If all that activity were not napinducing enough, the active mom is hooked on adventure travel (Hawaii, Utah, Thailand, the East Coast, etc). As a couple, they snowboard and climb. Willy enjoys playing softball for the Chumstick Allstars. For Eron, there is ballet class in winter, and paddleboarding and swimming in summer. Yet she also loves “just being at my house — a wonderful, quiet place to waste away the day…” she mused. So, where do these two get their high-energy levels? “We come from a long line of hard-working Midwest Norwegians and Germans. So, I think it’s in the blood.” Beyond that, “We both grew up in families where our parents and grandparents instilled a really solid work ethic in us at a very young age. It’s hard to break away from that, by the time you reach adulthood.” “The important part is integrating time to play and decompress into each week,” she continued, “Otherwise, really, what’s the point? Mostly, we both see our work as fun. So it feels a lot less like working, and a lot more like just living a really good life.” F
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Sweet mess
NATURE STORY BY RACHEL HANSEN PHOTOS BY REILLY KNEEDLER AND MIKE BONNICKSEN
The honey harvest, from comb to jar Bees crawl over a frame in one of Maria Langer’s hives near an orchard on Wenatchee Heights.
I
thought I wanted to keep bees, just a hive or two. I’d give away the honey for Christmas in cute little mason jars. Surrounded by 1,000 agitated bees, I wasn’t so sure. The collective buzz outside of my bee hat rang in my ears, like a high-pitched Hoover vacuum. My skin prickled with adrenaline and sweat.
Reilly Kneedler photo September / October 2017
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Maria Langer removes frames of honey from her beehives near an orchard on Wenatchee Heights last summer.
Langer lights a smoker before harvesting honey. 42
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Reilly Kneedler photo
Reilly Kneedler photo
“They seem really excited …” I tell Maria Langer, a NCW Beekeeping Association member who maintains seven hives in Malaga this year, down from 10 a year ago. She let me tag along during a hive inspection last summer. “This is nothing,” she said unpacking her harvesting tools. “Each hive has about 20,000 to 30,000 bees in it.” Her white bee suit and gloves covered all but her shoes. “I feel like Superman when I’m wearing this,” she said. She knelt by four stacks of boxes, called supers. She pumped the bellows of her bee smoker. Smoke signals a fire is nearby, which sends the bees into a honey-eating frenzy. They gorge themselves in case they have to evacuate, Langer said. The bees had glued every lid shut with a brown resin, called propolis. She cracked open the first super
with a crow-bar looking rod. Usually, bees build their comb on the frames, like a foundation. She found patches of stray comb inside the lid — a sign that the hive was crowded. “We might have to give them a whole new floor in their apartment building,” she said, referring to an empty super she brought. Bees zipped around Langer as she scraped off the burr comb. “I know, I know, you’re upset,” she said. “I’m a bully, coming in for home invasion.” She pulled frames one by one for inspection, about 10 frames per box. Dark colored-comb stored larvae. Lighter comb stored honey. “We’re going to leave these girls alone,” she said of a dark-patched frame. She crushed a few bees as she slid the frame back. “Ooh, sorry about that, girls,” she said. She hates killing them, but it’s unavoidable. She visits only occasionally to minimize the impact. Other beekeepers inspect their hives weekly. Every beekeeper is different. After about two hours, she took home two frames worth about 1.5 gallons of honey. On average, she only steals 10 to 20 percent of the bees’ honey. “Thank you girls,” she said, packing up her stuff. “I hate doing this to you, but you’ll make more. You’ve got plenty of time.” Timing is everything. Starting in April, the bees gather nectar within a five-mile radius. Langer can start harvesting as early as June. By late August, most beekeepers wrap up harvest and process the honey. “I remember the first time I harvested honey, I went home and threw out all my bottled honey,” she said. “It was that good.”
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Extracting the sweetness Two weeks later, I stood around boxes of honey-filled frames with six hungry 4-H kids. “Yes, we will make a mess and it will be the most delicious mess we’ve ever made,” said Steve Foley, past president of the NCW Beekeepers Association. He taught the Chiwawa 4-H beekeepers course
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Mike Bonnicksen photo
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Top: Members of the Chiwawa Valley 4-H club examine a frame full of bees wax and honey that Steve Foley was showing them last summer. They extracted raw wildflower honey from frames as part of a 4-H project. Bottom: A capping scratcher is used to remove the capping from honeycomb so it can be extracted. 44
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for several years before taking a break this year. In late August last year, his shop in Plain was still 85 degrees — warm enough for the honey to flow like golden syrup. “Once the honey is dry, they preserve it by covering it with wax, like putting a lid on a jar,” Foley said. “Our game is to cut the top of the jar somehow.” Foley pulled out a serrated knife and sliced through the wax like butter. Honey oozed out of the frame into a mash bucket of spent comb and drippings. “Sometimes they plug in these knives so it gets nice and hot, but it also tends to pour honey everywhere,” he said. Next, Foley pulled out a roller and poked holes in the wax with a sticky slurp. “It doesn’t work as well as one might hope,” he said. He showed them a third tool that looked like a hair pick. “One of my favorites is this tool, called a scratcher.”
He scraped under the top layer of wax and peeled away a slice. The kids eagerly went to work trying out the different tools. I grabbed a scratcher and tried to angle it just under the caps on one steady skim. Easier said than done. “It takes concentration,” Alex Pipkin, 12, told me. Foley carried the dripping frames to a circular drum — a spinning honey extractor. “Sticky one coming through!” “Mmm, thanks for dripping it on me,” said 7-year-old Jaden Parker. With the spinner full, each kid turned the crank. With enough speed, the spinner flung honey on the sidewalls. “Let’s all be really quiet and get our ears down next to the drum,” Foley said. “What do you hear?” “Sounds like raindrops,” Parker said. “Honey rain.” Honey slowly dripped down the drum to a spigot, then into a 5-gallon bucket. The spinning process takes about two hours per hive, depending
on the temperature, Foley said. On a hot day, he can uncap and spin three or four hives in one evening. “We’re going to let the honey sit in this bucket for a while and let the bubbles slowly rise to the top,” Foley said. The 4-H club put extra filtering screens in the spinner because they planned to keep some of the honey and show the rest at the Chelan County Fair. They sold it for $20 a pint as a club fundraiser.
“Wow, this is the best honey ever. It’s the sweetest I’ve ever had,” Pipkin said. “You’re right. It’s sweeter than usual,” Foley said. He believes the bees visited a lot of lavender, which thrived in the cool spring that year. “It’s pretty amazing how different the honey turns out every year,” he said. “I say this is the best honey in the state,” Parker said. “Darn straight,” Foley said.
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Getting started Want to keep bees? Join the club, literally. The NCW Beekeepers Association has grown from 12 members four years ago to more than 100 members this year. A few tips to get you started: Check ordinances: Check with your county or city government — several local jurisdictions limit beekeeping based on the size and location of your lot. Find a mentor: Book learning isn’t enough; beekeeping varies greatly by location. The NCW Beekeepers Association meets once a month at the Douglas County Fire District 2 hall in East Wenatchee, and they host occasional “bee chats” at local cafes. Check out their calendar at NCWbees.com.
Mike Bonnicksen photo
Left: Steve Foley pulls a frame out of the extractor to see if all the honey has been removed. He worked with members of the Chiwawa Valley 4-H club last summer to extract raw wildflower honey from frames. Mike Bonnicksen photo
Top: Jaden Parker, left, and Josiah Pipkin, seen in reflection, watch as honey comes out of the extractor.
2017 ENVISION
Take a class: The group also hosts a three-week, apprentice-level class in early March, usually in Leavenworth. Certification is $20. Buy equipment: Starter kits usually include a suit, gloves, basic tools, smoker, super and frames for about $300. Packaged bees are about $100-$150. The NCW Beekeepers Association rents a honey extraction kit to its members — $25 for 72 hours. F September / October 2017
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NCW RECREATION
STORY BY MARLENE FARRELL PHOTOS BY KEVIN FARRELL
Hartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pass is a majestic destination
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hat if you could be immersed in the majesty of the Cascade Mountains the moment you stepped out of your car? What if you could enjoy a stunning view in an alpine meadow without the long strenuous hike? Just such a place exists at Hartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pass, home of the highest maintained road in Washington state. At 6,100 feet, the robust firs and pines cluster in a park-like setting. The heathers and small wildflowers cling to rocky soil, and the views of lofty peaks are uninhibited. The pass is located northwest of Winthrop, in the OkanoganWenatchee National Forest. It is managed by the Methow Valley Ranger District.
Magic of the wilderness Gorgeous rock formations greet the Farrells as they head south along the trail toward Cutthroat Pass.
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The Farrell family follows the trail on their first day hiking the Pacific Crest Trail north of Hartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pass.
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The approach to this wonderland is via a 90-minute scenic drive on a dirt road, starting just past Mazama. Jennifer Zbyszewski, recreation and wilderness program manager of the Methow Valley Ranger District, explained that drivers go slow because “the bumps make for natural speed control.” She added, “At the same time, the Forest Service puts resources into maintaining the Hart’s Pass road, and one can find more treacherous roads on any district. Occasionally there are flat tires, so drivers should be prepared for the possibility of changing a tire.” The summer visitors come for a variety of reasons. “Hart’s Pass is one place I always recommend,” Jennifer said, “because the view from the top is just breathtaking. You don’t even have to get out of your car to enjoy it, to see the sea of wildflowers. “The hiking is great; the grade is gentle. You can hike for a half hour, or use it as a launch-off point for backpacking north toward Canada or south toward Rainy Pass.” Once you arrive, the choices are many. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) crosses Hart’s Pass, and the Pasayten Wilderness begins just to the north. There are other trailheads a mile be-
Kevin Farrell and daughter Alice practice their flyfishing technique at the campground so they can fish the creeks along the way. yond, starting even higher, at 6,500 feet for the PCT north and at 7,000 feet for access to Slate Peak and Pasayten Peak. My family of four decided to spend eight days backpacking first a northern loop and then south from Hart’s Pass to Rainy Pass, covering 70 miles along the way. I knew from the first glimpse of high alpine splendor that this would be an unforgettable trip. Quentin, 11, and Alice, 9, were already seasoned backpackers. But this was their first trip with so much elevation gain. Now they carried bigger backpacks, ones with hip belts and sternum straps. At the end of the day,
they felt sore shoulders and hips, just like my husband Kevin and I. It was a lesson in toughness and perseverance tempered by the magic of the wilderness. We traveled through a landscape of deeply glaciated mountain valleys. Black and red rocky peaks jutted above alpine meadows, full of dainty heathers, tall fuzzy-topped western pasque flowers and scarlet paintbrush. Below, dense forest blanketed the valleys. Our trail would dip into forest, where we surprised the occasional grouse, passed the time with stories and jokes, or let ourselves be lost in meditation.
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A typical wilderness campsite near lower Goat Lake includes a rocky playground.
“Hart’s Pass is spectacular in the feeling you get of being a very small part of a very big world!” Stephanie Astell Leavenworth trail runner
Marmots abound in the wilderness, including this one at the Meadows Campground. 52
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I caught Quentin and Alice looking around, eyes wide, seeing for miles without a road in sight. Within a short distance, we would go from marmot territory on a talus slope to a stand of old larches to meadow to scree, as the aspect and steepness of the terrain changed. We passed only a few hikers each day. The rewards of this backpack trip went beyond the visual. Jumping into alpine lakes washed away not only trail
dust and sweat, but also our weariness. We played card games at our lunch break overlooks and while tucked into sleeping bags inside our tent. We shared chocolate bars most nights while stargazing. I cherished the early mornings, the chill in the air, the susurrus of the wind through the larches, the light gleaming orange and gold off the peaks. The first rays would warm my skin as I journaled from a granite boulder perch. The PCT, more so than the other trails, is lovingly maintained. At one spot, a volunteer trail crew was out with Pulaskis, hoes and mattocks to rebuild the path where it had eroded along a slope of fine scree. Day hikers can revel in Hart’s Pass, coming for a day or staying in one of the two primitive campgrounds nearby. Trail runners also know that an epic trip is worth the long drive. Leavenworth trail runner Stephanie Astell and some of her friends came to Hart’s Pass in August last summer for a long trail run. “I love to spend time with close friends in an incredible setting,” Stephanie said. “To run through such a pristine area, basically by ourselves for the majority of the day, is rare. The North Cascades are truly magnificent in their austere beauty and size.” Hart’s Pass is most fully appreciated from mid-July to September. Jennifer Zbyszewski said, “Although the Pass officially closes Dec. 1 and opens April 1, it isn’t fully accessible for cars until about the Fourth of July every year. And in November it is often impassable to cars due to snowfall.” Water can be scarce on the PCT south of Hart’s Pass, so hikers should bring extra water if they are heading that way in late summer. As for other hazards, Stephanie was happy to report, “We had no trouble with bears or snakes.” On our backpack trip, we had ideal weather, with sunshine and breezes and long days to hike slowly and take in the views. It felt like one version of heaven, and we didn’t want to leave. This trip, even more than our previous trips, cast a spell over my children. They love the mountains as much as we do, after experiencing the magic of Hart’s Pass. Stephanie summed it up by saying, “Hart’s Pass is spectacular in the feeling you get of being a very small part of a very big world!”
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The Farrells resupplied their backpacks and enjoyed a night at the Meadows Campground near Hart’s Pass. Top: Making breakfast can be chilly in the mountains. Fingerless mittens and a hat come in handy.
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Bottom: Quentin Farrell enjoys reading in the afternoon sun at the family’s campsite.
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You can drive a low-clearance vehicle on the Hart’s Pass road. However, trailers are prohibited and motorhomes are highly discouraged, because they are not safe on such a narrow road with small turnouts. Be prepared for weather extremes that are common at high elevation. For up-to-date information, contact the Methow Valley Ranger District at (509) 9964003 or visit their office in Winthrop. F
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1139 N. Princeton 9 am-6 pm Mon-Sat
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Congratulations
to all the award winning wineries and winemakers!
To celebrate our great showing at the Wenatchee Food and Wine Festival, Eagle Creek Winery has begun Friends and Neighbors Sundays, beginning September 3rd. Every Sunday through October we will be presenting samples of our award winning wines. Order a fruit and cheese platter and a glass of wine and sit in our “Eagles Nest”, otherwise known as the Tree House. Walk the vineyard, play giant Jenga and tour the barrel room. The winery is especially beautiful this time of year. Your furry four legged friends are welcome as well!
Hours are 11:00am to 5:00pm. Be sure to bring your camera!
Bring or mention this ad and you will receive our friends and neighbors discount of 15%. Awards Double Gold 2014 Syrah Gold 2015 Chardonnay
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Silver 2014 D. LoVarco 2014 Montage 2015 Adler Weiss 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 Chenin Blanc 2015 Pinot Grigio
10037 Eagle Creek Road • Leavenworth, WA 98826 • 509-548-7059 September / October 2017
FOOTHILLS
Getting Married Next Year? Have A Wedding Business? The January-February 2018 issue of Foothills is the Wedding Issue. It will feature stories of local couples who have tied the knot recently, as well as the work of the many businesses that form the backbone of the local wedding industry. We plan on dedicating a large portion of the magazine to the topics that interest would-be brides and grooms.
For more information, contact us at 509-664-7130 or advertising@wenatcheeworld.com.
Deadline: December 5, 2017
September / October 2017
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STORY BY RICK STEIGMEYER PHOTOS BY RON MASON
Crayelle creation earns
Best of Best of Show, Best White, Double Gold 2016 Albariño Silver NV Tempranillo
Show
2015 Gabriel’s Horn 2016 Neve’s Blanc Sauvignon Blanc
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T
he Best of Show winner in the Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival Wine Competition is a wine that may be new to most people. The winemaker behind the awardwinning wine, however, is arguably the region’s best-known and accomplished. Crayelle Cellars’ 2016 Albariño was crowned the best wine out of 230 rated by nine expert judges in the competition. Crayelle Cellars is owned by Craig and Danielle Mitrakul.
Crayelle Wine: 2016 Albariño
Albariño is a white wine grape of Spanish origin. Very little is grown in Washington, but that’s likely to change, considering winemaker Craig Mitrakul’s success with the grape. The grapes were grown in the Ancient Lakes AVA near George, which appears to be an ideal site with its volcanic soils and unforgiving, arid climate. Crayelle’s Abariño won a Double Gold medal along with Best of Show honors this year. It also won a Double Gold medal in 2014 and a Gold medal in 2015 in the same competition. Judges found the crisp white brimming with aromas of sweet lemon, elderflowers, apple and pear blossom, followed by flavors of peach, tropical fruit and a refreshing spritz of lemon acidity. Crayelle also won Silver medals for its 2016 Neve’s Sauvignon Blanc, non-vintaged Tempranillo and 2015 Gabriel’s Horn, a red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. August marked Craig Mitrakul’s 20th year of working in wine production. His wines have been steady winners in Northwest wine competitions, and not only under the couple’s own Crayelle label. Craig has been head winemaker for Saint Laurent Winery and Ryan Patrick Winery, two of the earliest North Central Washington wineries. Both have since been absorbed by larger wineries. He’s currently head winemaker and viticulturist for Karma Cellars in Chelan. That winery focuses on sparkling as well as still wines. Crayelle Cellars, based in Cashmere, is his personal project. The boutique winery produces about 600 cases of wine annually. Only 100 cases of the Albariño were bottled. The wines often sell out quickly from their tasting room in Cashmere. We’re hoping much more Albariño is in their future. After earning a master’s degree in wine science at Cornell University, Mitrakul worked at several wellknown wineries including Chateau Ste. Michelle, Rosemount Estates (Australia), Ponzi Vineyards (Oregon), Lamoureaux Landing Wine Cellars (New York) and Three Rivers Winery (Walla Walla). F
Craig and Danielle Mitrakul, owners of Crayelle Cellars. Their 2016 Albariño was selected Best of Show in this year’s Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition.
The Crayelle name comes from combining Craig and Danielle Mitrakul’s first names. September / October 2017
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STORY BY RICK STEIGMEYER
PHOTOS BY MICHELLE NARANJO
Succession turns ashes to
gold
Double Gold 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Evolution White Wine Gold 2015 Famiglia Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2016 Antoine Creek Vineyards Rosé 2016 Chardonnay — Best of Class 2016 Viognier 5 Silver Medals
Jamie Day of Guatemala (orginally from Chelan), far right, laughs with Christie Saugen of Plain and Deana Berg of Seattle during Day’s birthday celebration at Succession Wines in Manson in mid-July.
T
alk about starting off with a bang. Succession Wines, in its first year of competition, garnered a slew of medals during the Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine judging. Not that it was an easy start for
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Brock and Erica Lindsay. Their Manson winery literally rose from the ashes. Just two weeks after the birth of their first of two daughters in 2014, their home on Brewster Flats was destroyed in the Carlton Complex Fire. Their home was gone, but not
Brock Lindsay, owner of Succession Wines in Manson.
their dreams. Aptly named, Succession Wines is in many ways an ecological response to a natural disturbance-in the Lindsays case, fire. Disaster fueled their desire to build a new life, create a legacy and follow their passions. “It was devastating, but maybe one of the best things that happened,” said Brock, about the loss. “You can’t unburn it. But it really catalyzed us to figure out our passions and goals. It helped us put our dreams into action.” Judges for the Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival agreed they succeeded very well indeed. The winery won two Double Gold medals — meaning a trio of judges unanimously agreed on a Gold rating. The 2016 Evolution White Wine is a blend of Ancient Lakes AVA-grown Semillon and Roussanne grapes rich with apple and citrus aromas, great mineral character and a balanced finish. Also winning Double Gold was Succession’s 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, a complex and full-bodied wine full of black cherry, currant, dried fig and touch of tobacco. Succession 2016 Chardonnay was a Gold medal winner and deemed Best of Class by judges. The lightly oaked wine was made from grapes grown around Lake Chelan. Most of
A glass of Succession Wines 2016 Viognier at the winery’s tasting room in Manson.
the grapes Brock uses come from the 18-acre Antoine Creek Vineyard that they manage north of Lake Chelan. Others come from the Cave B Vineyard in Grant County. Other Gold medal winners were the 2016 Viognier, 2016 Antoine Creek Rose and 2015 Famiglia Vineyards Cabernet Franc. Silver medal winners
were 2016 Sauvignon Blanc, 2015 Pinot Noir, 2016 Vixen White Wine and 2015 Bridge Builders Blend Red Wine. Succession Wines has its tasting room at 78 Swartout Road in Manson, where they hope to soon build a new house, production facility and plant more vineyard. F September / October 2017
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Double Gold 2016 Cave B Vineyards Viognier 2016 Cavewoman White Wine Gold 2014 Tempranillo
The Cave B barrel room.
Michelle Naranjo photo
2016 Cave B Vineyards Chenin Blanc 10 Silver Medals 1 Bronze Medal
Cave B
is the gold star of the 64
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Ancient Lakes
STORY BY RICK STEIGMEYER
Cave B Estate Winery Wines: 2016 Viognier, 2016 Cavewoman White, 2014 Tempranillo, 2016 Chenin Blanc Below: Freddy Arredondo, Cave B Estate Vineyards winemaker
C
ave B Estate Winery continues to prove that the rocky cliffs above the Columbia River near George are renown for more than their sheer beauty and amplification of rock music. One of the region’s longest established vineyards and wineries captured two Double Gold medals, two Gold medals and a bushel of Silver
medals at the annual judging of the Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival. Some 35 years ago, Vince and Carol Bryan had the vision to plant wine grapes on the cliffs. The couple also created what became The Gorge Amphitheatre. Their son-in-law, Freddy Arredondo, has been spinning those grapes into Gold medal wines for the Ron Mason photo past decade. The Ancient Lakes American Viticultural Area, with Cave B at its core, has become one of the state’s most-awarded and fastestgrowing wine districts. The area is best known for its crisp whites, brimming with bright acid and stony minerality. Arredondo showed those qualities off with two Double Gold medal whites, Cave B Estate’s 2016 Viognier and 2016 Cavewoman White, a bargain-priced ($14), thirst-
quenching blend of Chardonnay and Semillon. Gold medal winners were Cave B’s 2016 Chenin Blanc and 2014 Tempranillo, a light, bright red with Spanish roots. Another 10 Cave B wines took home Silver medals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Malbec, Sangiovese, Roussanne, Sauvignon Blanc, a dry Rose, Syrah and two red blends. Arredondo admits to a passionate curiosity when it comes making wine. “I enjoy making a lot of different wines,” he said. Cave B offered 17 different varietals and blends this year. A former chef, Arredondo takes pride in making wines that pair well with a wide variety of foods. Cave B’s vineyards, about 90 acres, continue to prove the versatility and unique qualities of Ancient Lakes rock and rubble soils. Judges agreed much good, and gold, can spring from desert desolation when touched by Arredondo’s capable hands. Arredondo also oversees a second winery using Cave B grapes, Famiglia Vineyards, which produces wines for other wineries. F September / October 2017
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STORY BY RICK STEIGMEYER
PHOTOS BY MICHELLE NARANJO
Rio Vista sweeps four
Best of Class awards
Double Gold 2015 Pinot Noir — Best of Class 2015 Sunset on the River — Best of Class Gold 2015 Tempranillo — Best of Class 2016 Antoine Creek Vineyards Viognier — Best of Class 2016 Wacky White 3 Silver Medals 2 Bronze Medals
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Rio Vista Wines owner John T. Little, left, and Rio Vista Wines winemaker John Little
J
ohn and Jan Little do things their own way at Rio Vista, their boutique winery on the banks of the Columbia River. It’s been a winning way the past few years. Rio Vista brought home two Double Gold medals, three Gold medals and three Silver medals in this year’s Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition. Four of those medal winners were voted Best of Class by wine experts during the judging earlier this year.
That’s something that has never happened in the seven years of the event. Rio Vista’s 2016 Sunset on the River (Double Gold medal) was Best of Class for White Blend, its 2016 Antoine Creek Vineyard Viognier (Gold medal) won Best of Class for Viognier, its 2015 Pinot Noir (Double Gold medal) was Best of Class for Pinot Noir, and its 2015 Tempranillo (Gold medal) was Best of Class for Tempranillo. Whew! Rio Vista also won a Gold medal
Rio Vista Winery Wines: 2016 Wacky White, 2015 Tempranillo, 2016 Viognier, 2016 Sunset on the River, 2015 Pinot Noir
Rio Vista Wines tasting room associate Kristiane Ellis pours wine for Konner and Hayley Knudtsen of Ellensburg. for its 2016 Wacky White, a Chardonnay-based white blend, and three Silver medals for other wines. It’s not too surprising that the Littles seem to be teaching other
local wineries how to be successful. After all, both John and Jan are retired teachers. And they’re showing the wine world they not only can make great wine, but also that great wine
grapes can be grown in the more northern reaches of the Columbia Valley. Nearly all of their wines are made from grapes they grow on their site. Other grapes come from small vineyards also north of Lake Chelan. A younger generation is starting to take over much of Rio Vista’s operations. John Little Jr. graduated from Walla Walla Community College’s esteemed viticulture program in 2014 and now helps his father in day-to-day vineyard and winemaking practices. John and Jan’s granddaughter, Kelsey Chavez, has a business degree and 10 years experience working in the wine industry. She’s now operations manager for Rio Vista’s two tasting rooms north of Chelan and in downtown Manson. Daughter Kerry Siderius is a well-known local painter who displays her work in the tasting rooms and designs Rio Vista’s wine labels. With successful vineyards and many family members involved, Rio Vista has a solid business plan for the future. F September / October 2017
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STORY BY RICK STEIGMEYER
PHOTOS BY MICHELLE NARANJO
Quiet
Tunnel Hill shouts excellence at wine awards
Double Gold 2015 Estate Pinot Noir NV Setenta Red Wine Gold 2015 Estate Malbec 2015 Estate Syrah 4 Silver Medals 1 Bronze Medal
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Tunnel Hill Wines: 2015 Estate Malbec, 2015 Estate Pinot Noir, NV Setenta Red Wine, 2015 Estate Syrah
T
unnel Hill is that quiet little winery that greets visitors as they come down the hill to Lake Chelan on Highway 97A. “Come to your senses,” is the theme they sing, offering yoga mornings, piano jazz nights, Bach Festival chamber music and scenic vineyard tours around the native rock tasting room. The winery also offers wines that are not only soft, soothing and sensible, but superb in all ways. Judges for
this year’s Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival awarded Tunnel Hill wines two Double Gold, two Gold and four Silver medals in this year’s competition. Tunnel Hill’s 2015 Estate Malbec was also a Best of Class winner. Double Gold medal winners were the 2015 Estate Pinot Noir and the non-vintaged Setenta, a Bordeauxstyle blend that tributes Tunnel Hill’s co-owner and founder, Denny Evans. That stunning Malbec, the first year
Clockwise from above: Tunnel Hill Winery owner Denny Evans and winemaker Michelle Fanton. Richard Cannefax of Kent carries son Bryson, 2, while following his other son Caden on a walk by the vineyards at Tunnel Hill Winery in Chelan in mid-July. The barrel room at Tunnel Hill Winery in Chelan. they’ve made the varietal from estate grapes, was a Gold medal winner, along with the 2015 Estate Syrah. Silver medal winners included a 2015 Estate Viognier, 2016 Estate Riesling, 2016 Camino White, a blend of Riesling and Gewürztraminer, and NV Sacrilege, a red blend of Pinot Noir and Syrah. Nearly all Tunnel Hill wine are estate grown, testifying to Denny Evans’ vision and skill at converting what was once his apple orchard into some of the finest vineyards growing in the Lake Chelan AVA. He began planting Pinot Noir, Syrah and Riesling in 2001, adding a block of Viognier in 2012 and Malbec in 2013. Denny and wife Jaclyn are still very much involved in the winery. Most of the day-to-day operation, including winemaking and blending, has been turned over to Michelle Fanton. She worked in New York state’s famed Finger Lakes wine area and in Pennsylvania after earning a degree in biology and studying viticulture at Cornell University. The Lake Chelan area has become one of the state’s best Pinot Noir growing areas, she said. But the AVA is developing a strong reputation for many grapes. “Pinot traditionally doesn’t like it too warm, so Lake Chelan does well, although we’ve had to adjust growing practices the last couple years. But Syrah and Malbec love the heat,” she said. Tunnel Hill hit a home run with all three of those varieties this year. F September / October 2017
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Best of Show – Best White
Best Red
Best Rosé
Best Dessert
Crayelle Cellars 2016 Albariño, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $23
Plain Cellars 2014 Eclipse Red Blend, Columbia Valley, $35
Jones of Washington 2016 Rosé of Syrah, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $14
Gingko Forest Winery Estate Sun in a Bottle Port-style, Wahluke Slope, $35
Judges’ Comments: Craig Mitrakul has been making some of the best wines in North Central Washington for well more than a decade, but for other wineries. The Cornell grad has his own brand in Cashmere, and his hard work has paid off with this white wine. It’s a stunning example of this Spanish grape, with expressive aromas of fresh peaches, pear, lemon verbena, kiwi and even a hint of minerality and lime sorbet. The crisp acidity is harmoniously balanced with all the fruit. (100 cases; 13.4% alc.)
Judges’ Comments: This Cabernet-leading red blend shows off aging in American oak, thanks to aromas of dark-roasted coffee, a hint of shaved coconut and a sprinkling of cocoa powder, alongside notes of ripe plum, plump blackberries and a hint of vanilla. It’s a beautifully textured wine. (135 cases; 14.4% alc.)
Judges’ Comments: Winemaker Victor Palencia has a well-earned reputation as one of the top rosé winemakers in Washington. This rosé of Syrah reveals vivid aromas and flavors of Bing cherry, cranberries, dried strawberries, blood orange and raspberries. It’s beautifully balanced. (874 cases; 13.1% alc.)
Judges’ Comments: A rare white fortified wine, this luscious dessert wine reveals aromas of toasted hazelnuts and caramel with hints of butterscotch on the finish. It’s delicious wine that will get only better over the next half-decade. (57 cases; 19.2% alc.)
Plain tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through the summer; hours change seasonally 18749 Alpine Acres Road, Plain (509) 548-5412 plaincellars.com
Wenatchee tasting room open noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday; noon to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday Pybus Public Market, 7 N. Worthen St., Wenatchee (509) 888-0809; jonesofwashington.com
Leavenworth tasting room open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. during summer; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Monday for most of the year; extended hours during holidays and festival time 703 Highway 2, Unit A, Leavenworth (509) 548-5412 plaincellars.com
Quincy tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Labor Day through Memorial Day; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Monday, Memorial Day through Labor Day 2101 F St. SW, Quincy (509) 787-8108; jonesofwashington.com
Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday 207A Mission Ave., Cashmere (509) 393-1996 crayellecellars.com
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Mattawa tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday 22561 Road T.7 S.W., Mattawa (509) 932-0082; ginkgowinery.com Prosser tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday 357 Port Ave., Suite D (inside Winemaker’s Loft of Vintner’s Village) (509) 786-1509; ginkgowinery.com Tacoma tasting room open 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon to 4 p.m Sunday 2221 N. 30th St., Tacoma, (253) 301-4372; ginkgowinery.com September / October 2017
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Benson Vineyards
100% Estate Wines from Lake Chelan Tasting Room Open 11-5 Daily
754 Winesap Ave Manson, WA 509 687 0313 bensonvineyards.com
The Platinum Winemakers Circle celebrates the wineries that set the gold standard in North Central Washington. We select wineries that capture the most Double Gold and Gold medals in the Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s honoree is Succession Wines in Manson. Congratulations to owners Brock and Erica Lindsay, who now find themselves in select company among the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest wineries.
2011 Chateau Faire Le Pont 2012 Jones of Washington Milbrandt Vineyards 2013 Cave B Estate Winery Chateau Faire Le Pont Milbrandt Vineyards 2014 Cave B Estate Winery Ginkgo Forest Winery Martin-Scott Winery Rio Vista Wines 2015 Cave B Estate Winery Jones of Washington 2016 Jones of Washington Malaga Springs Winery 2017 Succession Wines 72
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Meet the Judges MODERATORS Eric Degerman is a wine author and journalist. He was managing editor of Wine Press Northwest magazine for 15 years before launching Great Northwest Wine, a news and information company. He judges wine professionally throughout the West Coast. Hank Sauer is a retired educator with an enduring interest in wine. He facilitates and/ or judges wine competitions across the Pacific Northwest. He and wife Nancy share their wine knowledge through engaging classes and seminars.
Marco Martinez iis editor of Foothills Magazine and features editor of The Wenatchee World. He enjoys the regional wine scene and learning about the industry through his work for Foothills.
JUDGES Dan Carr is co-owner of Visconti’s Italian Restaurants in Wenatchee and Leavenworth, and the Fire and Ice restaurants at Pybus Market. His restaurants have received numerous wine-related awards over the years.
Barb Robertson earned an Advanced Certification and Diploma through Wine and Spirit Education Trust. She has worked in the Northwest wine industry for more than 10 years, including distribution, sales, production and marketing. Richard Larsen is the research winemaker for Washington State University. He runs winemaking operations at the Ste. Michelle Wine Estates WSU Wine Science Center in Richland. He’s a member of Great Northwest Wine’s tasting panel and a frequent judge at competitions through the Northwest.
Gregg McConnell is the past publisher of Kennewickbased Wine Press Northwest magazine who has judged a lot of wine competitions in the region.
Ellen Landis is a certified sommelier, wine writer, wine educator, wine event moderator and frequent judge at prominent regional, national and international wine competitions. She worked as sommelier at the Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay on the California coast
Amberleigh Brownson is a certified sommelier/ restaurant consultant in Bellingham.
Rick Steigmeyer has been a journalist for more than 30 years. He recently retired after a more than 25-year career at The Wenatchee World. An amateur winemaker, he writes about wine for Foothills Magazine. Ken Robertson is a retired newspaper editor with more than 35 years of wine-writing experience. He is a professional wine judge and is a longtime columnist for Wine Press Northwest magazine.
Sara Wilson is the general manager and wine buyer for Mystic Cafe in Lewiston, Idaho. She is a certified sommelier.
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BEST OF C O F CL A S
HOME WINE MAKING & BREWING The only place in town to get your supplies!
Cabernet Sauvignon Beaumont Cellars
2015 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain, $34 Judges’ comments: Using grapes from warm Red Mountain, Quincy winemaker Pete Beaumont has crafted a beautiful and pure Cabernet Sauvignon that opens with aromas of cranberry and a hint of sage. It’s a full-bodied red with aromas of plum, black currant jam and a hint of black licorice on the finish. (100 cases; 13.7% alc.) Quincy tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday; hours change seasonally. 8634 Road U N.W., Quincy (509)787-5586; beaumontcellars.com Woodinville tasting room open 4 to 9 p.m. Thursday; 4 to 8 p.m. Friday; Noon to 8 p.m. Saturday; Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday 19151 144 Ave. N.E., Unit E, Woodinville (425) 482-6349; beaumontcellars.com 74
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Cabernet Sauvignon
Malbec
Succession Wines 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $39
Chris Daniel Winery 2014 Malbec, Columbia Valley, $28
Judges’ comments: After Brock and Erika Lindsay’s first child was born in 2014, they lost their home to the Carlton Complex wildfire. They then launched their winery on the north shore of Lake Chelan. This first release is nothing short of remarkable, thanks to subtle aromas of black cherry, black currants and blackberry. It is a beautifully structured wine with a silky texture and a great mouthfeel from beginning to end. (100 cases; 15.1% alc.)
Judges’ comments: This father-son operation near Quincy has son Chris Stewart making the wine. He also is a Napa Valley winemaker. This superb Malbec reveals complex aromas of violet, black pepper and black fruit, followed by flavors of chocolate ice cream and black cap raspberries backed by startling acidity and mild tannins. (145 cases; 15.1% alc.)
Tasting room open 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 78 Swartout Road, Manson (509) 888-7611 successionwines.com
Quincy tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. 2743 Highway 283 N., Quincy (509) 398-1417 www.chrisdaniel.wine
Milbrandt Vineyards Ravenscliff Vineyard Single Vineyard Series Malbec, Wahluke Slope, $42
Home Wine and Beer making supplies, kits, yeast, hops, dry and liquid malt extracts, grains, bottles and cleaning supplies. We now carry specialty grains in bulk and we will mill them fresh for you.
Judges’ comments: Winemaker Emily Haines crafted this stunning Malbec from estate grapes on the warm Wahluke Slope. It’s a rich, complex effort with aromas of bacon, chocolate, purple plum and smoked meat, followed by flavors of red fruit and boysenberry. Thanks to incredibly balanced acidity, this is loaded with bright fruit flavors. (200 cases; 15% alc.)
LOCALLY OWNED
Malbec
Prosser tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 508 Cabernet Court, Prosser (509) 788-0030 milbrandtvineyards.com
8am-8pm • 7 Days A Week
733 S. WENATCHEE AVE. 662-5858 www.stansmerrymart.com September / October 2017
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DOUBLE GOLD
Other Red
Baroness Cellars 2013 Miscela Sangiovese, Columbia Valley, $32 Judges’ comments: This select barrel of Sangiovese is part of this Leavenworth winery’s winemaker Select program. It reveals aromas and flavors of classic Bing cherry, strawberry, sweet herbs and forest floor. One of the better examples of Sangiovese that we’ve seen in Washington. (23 cases; 12.8% alc.) Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 827 Front St., Leavenworth (509) 548-7600 baronesscellars.com
Other Red
Ginkgo Forest Winery 2013 Estate Reserve Carménère, Wahluke Slope, $38
Jones of Washington 2015 Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $17
Judges’ comments: This Mattawa-based winery now has tasting rooms in Tacoma and Prosser, but still gets all of its grapes from estate vines on the Wahluke Slope. This remarkable Carménère reveals aromas of new-car leather, Pencil shavings and a hint of graphite. On the palate, this unveils flavors of a classic Carménère, with sweet herbs, black pepper, anise and rich, ripe red fruit. (137 cases; 14.5% alc.)
Judges’ comments: Winemaker Victor Palencia has long shown his prowess with this white Bordeaux grape, and this example is no exception. It is superb, starting with aromas of citrus blossoms that lead to flavors of kiwi, lemon curd and hints of lime zest. The bright, delightful flavors follow through on the palate, backed by refreshing, seafood-friendly acidity. (709 cases; 13% alc.)
Mattawa tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday 22561 Road T.7 S.W., Mattawa; (509) 932-0082; ginkgowinery.com
Wenatchee tasting room open noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday; noon to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday Pybus Public Market, 7 N. Worthen St., Wenatchee (509) 888-0809; jonesofwashington.com
Prosser tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday 357 Port Ave., Suite D (inside Winemaker’s Loft of Vintner’s Village) (509) 786-1509; ginkgowinery.com Tacoma tasting room open 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon to 4 p.m Sunday 2221 N. 30th St., Tacoma; (253) 301-4372; ginkgowinery.com
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Other White
Quincy tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Labor Day through Memorial Day; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday through Monday, Memorial Day through Labor Day 2101 F St. SW, Quincy (509) 787-8108; jonesofwashington.com
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Martin-Scott Winery 2016 Needlerock Vineyard Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley, $14 Judges’ comments: East Wenatchee winemaker Mike Scott brings in grapes from Needlerock Vineyard near Rock Island Dam. This is a delicious gris with beautiful aromas of pink grapefruit, peach, jicama and starfruit. The silky texture leads to a lasting finish.(128 cases; 13% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon 4 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally 3400 10th St. SE, East Wenatchee (509) 886-4596 martinscottwinery.com
Other White
Siren Song Vineyard Estate and Winery 2014 Cézanne Sauvignon Blanc, Washington, $25 Judges’ comments: This Lake Chelan winery has crafted this gorgeous Sauvignon Blanc from grapes from the cool Ancient Lakes AVA. It shows off marvelous aromas of grapefruit, Meyer Lemon and ripe kiwi; it’s backed by vibrant, mouth-watering acidity. (150 cases; 13.5% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 7 p.m., Thursday through Monday; hours change seasonally. 635 South Lakeshore Road, Chelan (509) 888-4657 sirensongwines.com
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Rio Vista Wines 2015 Pinot Noir, Columbia Valley, $42 Judges’ comments: Owner/winemaker John Little produces superb wines at his small winery along the Columbia River north of Lake Chelan. This delicious and rare Washington Pinot Noir opens with aromas of black cherries and forest floor. It’s a deceptively big Pinot Noir that is beautifully made with bold flavors of black olives, Bing cherries and dark cocoa powder. (121 cases; 13.5% alc.) Rio Vista on the River tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 24415 Highway 97, Chelan (509) 682-9713; riovistawines.com Rio Vista at the Cabin tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 224 E. Wapato Way, Manson (509) 687-1179; riovistawines.com September / October 2017
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DOUBLE GOLD
Pinot Noir
Tunnel Hill Winery 2015 Estate Pinot Noir, Lake Chelan, $25 Judges’ comments: This sublime stop on the south shore of Lake Chelan is run by second-generation farmer Guy Evans, an award-winning documentary filmmaker. It’s winemaker Michelle Fanton who gets credit for creating this wine. The superb Pinot Noir made from estate grapes gives hope for this variety in Washington. Aromas of blueberry, brioche, cinnamon and vanilla lead to flavors of juicy red fruit, hints of black currants and ripe raspberries in the finish. (137 cases; 15.3% alc.) Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 37 Highway 97A, Chelan (509) 682-3243 tunnelhillwinery.com
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Red Blend
Red Blend
Martin-Scott Winery 2014 Raven Ridge Red, Columbia Valley, $28
Tunnel Hill Winery
Judges’ comments: This richly structured red is heavy of Cabernet Sauvignon with a big dollop of Syrah. The resulting wine offers aromas of brambly red fruit, sweet herbs and hints of seasoned leather. Dusty tannins are well-balanced and a persistent finish. (223 cases; 15.8% alc.)
Judges’ comments: This Right Bank-style blend leads with Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by Merlot, Malbec and Syrah. The result is a red that opens with toasted notes, ripe red fruit and hints of cinnamon, brown sugar and boysenberry pie. (86 cases; 14.7% alc.)
Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon 4 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally 3400 10th St. SE, East Wenatchee (509) 886-4596 martinscottwinery.com
Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 37 Highway 97A, Chelan (509) 682-3243 tunnelhillwinery.com
NV Setenta Red Wine, Columbia Valley, $33
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Viognier
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Eagle Creek Winery 2014 Syrah, Columbia Valley, $23
Cave B Estate Winery 2016 Cave B Vineyards Viognier, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $25
Judges’ comments: This Leavenworth winery has crafted a Syrah that unveils complex aromas of blueberry, boysenberry, black olive and charcuterie, giving way to notes of leather and spices and backed by bull-bodied tannins and lovely oak integration. (90 cases; 13% alc.)
Judges’ comments: One of the top destination wineries in the Pacific Northwest is adjacent to the fabulous Gorge Amphitheatre on the western edge of the Ancient Lakes AVA. This superb Viognier Is very floral at first whiff, followed by flavors of fresh peaches, banana oil and classic orange creamsicle in the finish. (300 cases; 13.9% alc.)
Judges’ comments: Winemaker Freddy Arredondo has crafted this unusual blend of Semillon and Chardonnay that is annually one of the best in North Central Washington. This opens with grassy, figgy notes from the Semillon, backed by crisp acidity, followed by flavors of tropical fruit including mango and pineapple. This is a complex, pleasing wine that should work great with seafood. (300 cases; 13.9% alc.)
Quincy tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally, call tasting room 348 Silica Road N.W., Quincy (next to Gorge Amphitheatre) (509) 785-3500; caveb.com
Quincy tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally, call tasting room 348 Silica Road N.W., Quincy (next to Gorge Amphitheatre) (509) 785-3500; caveb.com
Woodinville tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday and Monday; hours change seasonally, call tasting room 14356 Woodinville-Redmond Road, Redmond (425) 949-7152; caveb.com
Woodinville tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday and Monday; hours change seasonally, call tasting room 14356 Woodinville-Redmond Road, Redmond (425) 949-7152; caveb.com
Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Sunday, May through October 10037 Eagle Creek Road, Leavenworth (509) 548-7668 eaglecreekwinery.com The d’Vinery tasting room is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday and Monday; noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday 617-4A Front Street, Leavenworth (509) 548-7059 eaglecreekwinery.com
Cave B Estate Winery 2016 Cavewoman White Wine, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $14
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DOUBLE GOLD
STORY BY MARCO MARTINEZ AND RICK STEIGMEYER
Manchester Road Cider
BRITISH STYLE
CIDER
PHOTOS BY HUNTER BRAWLEY
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Sara Wilson smells a Chardonnay while judging a flight of Chardonnay.
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Rio Vista Wines 2016 Sunset on the River, Columbia Valley, $22 Judges’ comments: This superb white blend includes Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer and Viognier. The result is aromas of sweet strawberry sorbet and fresh roses, followed by flavors of light strawberry and fresh rose petals. It’s a gorgeous wine that isn’t overly sweet and is fascinating to drink. (258 cases; 12.8% alc.) Rio Vista on the River tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 24415 Highway 97, Chelan (509) 682-9713; riovistawines.com Rio Vista at the Cabin tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 224 E. Wapato Way, Manson (509) 687-1179; riovistawines.com
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White Blend
Succession Wines 2016 Evolution White Wine, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $24 Judges’ comments: This wine from a new winery on the north shore of Lake Chelan is a blend of Semillon and Roussanne. On the nose it unfolds with aromas of jasmine and notes of pear and spice. On the palate, it is loaded with flavors of pear, nectarine and kiwi with just a hint of oak, vanilla, all backed with clean, refreshing acidity. (186 cases; 13.8% alc.) Tasting room open 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 78 Swartout Road, Manson (509) 888-7611 successionwines.com
Made in Chelan County
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udging for the seventh annual Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition took place June 2. Nine judges separated into three panels to taste, compare and review 230 entries submitted by 34 wineries. Judges awarded 21 Double Gold, 39 Gold, 128 Silver and 32 Bronze medals. That represents a substantial increase in the higher categories from last year, when judges gave out 10 Double Gold, 28 Gold, 105 Silver and 57 Bronze medals. This year’s group of judges included five newcomers, including two from Western Washington and a third from Idaho. They were joined by a group of backroom volunteers who handle all the busy work involved with a wine judging — labeling glasses, opening bottles, pouring wines, delivering wine flights to judges, washing glasses and handling all other details that add up to some sore feet at the end of the day. Judges generally look for wines that are true to type and offer a satisfying, sometimes exceptional, drinking experience for all. Wines are judged double blind. Judges don’t know specifically which wineries are entered in the competition. Panel moderators tell the judges what type or varietal is in front of them but offer no wine specifics about the producer or source of the grapes.
How the judging works
Judges taste the wines in flights according to type. Judges inspect each wine’s color and clarity and the clear layer at the top of the wine that offers information about its alcohol level. They swirl the wine to blend in oxygen and expose the delicate aromas. Finally they sip the wine and wash it over taste buds in different parts of their mouth before spitting it into a cup. Notes are taken for each wine. Often, judges will revisit a wine a Dan Carr takes notes on a flight of red wines. few times to see if it opens up given a few minutes more time. until they agree. Judges award each wine a Gold, Judges set aside the Double Gold Silver, Bronze or no medal. Once all the and Gold wines from each variety and wines in a flight are scored, judges give re-evaluate them to select a Best of the score sheets to the panel moderator, Class for each variety. The Best of Class who enters the scores in his computer wines — a mix of Double Gold and Gold that identifies each number with a winners — advance to the superlative specific wine. If all three judges on the round, which involves the nine judges panel agree on a medal — say, Silver — deciding on Best Red, Best White, Best that’s what it is. If all three three judges Rosé and Best Dessert. From that mix, award Gold, the wine is elevated to judges decide which of those four wines Double Gold. If there are differences is the overall standout that deserves the of opinion, the moderator calls for a Best of Show designation. discussion to reach a consensus. Judges The superlative decision is getting can take another sip and argue their tougher for judges as the overall quality case up or down on the medal scale of the entries improves each year. F September / October 2017
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THE VINE
STORY BY ELLEN LANDIS PHOTOS BY HUNTER BRAWLEY
Ellen Landis is a certified sommelier, certified specialist of wine, wine educator and professional wine judge. She is a writer for the AWS Wine Journal magazine and Spirited magazine, and offers her unique perspective through her blog, EllenOnWine.com. She also moderates wine events, conducts wine seminars and judges regional, national and international wine competitions each year.
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One judge’s introduction to North Central Washington wines 82
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Three panels of judges for the 2017 Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition tasted 230 wines.
wonderland was unfolding as I made my way through gently curving roads enveloped by mountains and rolling hills, birds twittering and flying high amongst majestic trees and vineyards peppering the hillsides and shores around Lake Chelan, the Wenatchee River and beyond. Drivers along my fivehour route exuded the most courteous behavior, and a sense of palpable friendliness. Thoughts of “Where am I?” kept rolling through my mind. Stepping into the Warm Springs Inn and Winery, and dining at Visconti’s restaurant enhanced my initial glimpse into what was to become a lasting first impression of the warmth, beauty and spirit of this gem of a wine region. Visconti’s owners Daniel Carr and Candy Mecham — and their talented staff — prepared delicious traditional Italian fare and presented equally excellent service. The Warm Springs Inn, a charming historic mansion perched upon a picturesque piece of land along the Wenatchee River, was a perfect spot to land each evening. Proprietors
Julie and Ludger Szmania are well versed in the art of innkeeping. As a former hotelier, I appreciate the keen attention they pay to each aspect of their customer-focused business. The elegantly appointed rooms, exquisite breakfasts crafted by accomplished chef Ludger, delightful wine tasting, helpful tips about the area and fine service from Julie could not have been better. The serene setting was ideal for relaxing, resting and preparing to judge wines in the morn for the Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival. I was one of nine judges invited to help rate 230 wines produced largely in North Central Washington. Judging took place June 7 in Wenatchee. Here is a peek at some of the impressive wines awarded Gold or Double Gold (unanimous by all judges) by my three-judge panel at this year’s competition:
Double Gold Crayelle Cellars 2016 Albariño, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $23, Best of Class: Perfumed aromas September / October 2017
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A flight of wines ready for judges to taste during judging for the 2017 Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition
will put a smile on your face and have you reaching for more. This multidimensional wine showcases layers of white peach, crisp pear, lemon verbena, kiwi, minerality and lime sorbet. Impeccably balanced with crisp acids and plenty of personality, it simply dances across the palate. Finishes equally upbeat, with brightness and verve.
Jones of Washington 2016 Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $17: Fragrant citrus blossom and fresh-squeezed Meyer lemon awaken the senses. Lively and pure on the palate with layers of kiwi, lime zest, white grapefruit and lemon curd enlivening the palate. Rockin’ acidity carries this remarkable SB to a bright, lifted finish.
Martin-Scott Winery 2016 Needlerock Vineyard Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley, $14: Beautifully fragranced and textured, this is one Pinot Gris not to miss. Gorgeous aromas of stone fruit segue to a spirited mouthful of pink grapefruit, nectarine, honeysuckle, star fruit, peach, jicama and a touch of herbs. Silky and refreshing, with a finish that never ends.
Plain Cellars 2014 Eclipse Red Blend, Red Mountain/Columbia Valley, $35, Best of Class: Here is a divine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Aromas of dark berries and a whisper of oak transition to a lip-smacking entry. Black cherry, red currant, leather, roasted coffee bean, a pinch of dill and savory spice unfold harmoniously onto the palate. Im-
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maculately balanced with fine grained tannins and a finish that keeps on going.
Gold Ryan Patrick Wines 2016 Rosé, Columbia Valley, $15: This uber-expressive dry Rosé is composed of 74% Syrah, 12% Cinsault, 8% Grenache and 6% Mourvèdre. Inviting aromas of red fruits and citrus are mirrored on the palate as pomegranate, cranberry and fresh red raspberry fruit entwine with a savory pinch of spice. Fresh and vibrant with brisk acidity. Silvara Vineyards 2016 Rosé, Washington, $22: The rosy pink hue
of this Syrah-dominant dry Rosé captures the eye, and aromas of fresh strawberries are compelling at first whiff. Lively with flavors of sweet watermelon, red raspberries and strawberry jam heightened by a colorful squeeze of orange juice. Well balanced with a finish that is long and refreshing. Milbrandt Vineyards 2014 Katherine Leone Vineyard Syrah, Wahluke Slope, $42: Aromas of eucalyptus and forest berries waft from the glass. This classy Syrah shows off flavors of blackberry, marionberry, licorice and bittersweet chocolate carried through the palate by a creamy texture. Rich and precisely balanced with a lingering finish.
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Tunnel Hill Winery 2015 Estate Syrah, Lake Chelan, $30: Blackberries and spice on the nose captivate the senses. Layers of black raspberries, roasted meat, black pepper, currants, vanilla bean and chocolate-covered cherries coat the palate. Rich and perfectly balanced with a firm structure and integrated tannins, it’s a nice example of power and elegance in a glass.
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Bergdorf Cellars 2013 Double Cabernet, Columbia Valley, $42: This enticing blend of 50% Cab Sauv and 50% Cab Franc offers breathtaking aromas up front. In the mouth, it is round and pleasing with superb depth of flavor and soft tannins. Notes of cassis, dusty earth, black plums, loganberry preserves, pencil shavings and a touch of herbs meld deliciously through the satisfying finish.
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North Central Washington is a blossoming wine region; it had not been on my radar screen until being invited to judge this year’s Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival wine competition. Given my endless passion for discovering new wines, I gladly accepted the opportunity. Little did I know just how delightful the experience would be, and what lovely wines would be unveiled. My first visit was engaging and joyful; it surely won’t be my last. Thank you NCW, I’ll be comin’ around the corner again, very soon! F Committed to Excellence
160 S. Worthen Street, Wenatchee (509) 662-1590 pooltospaservices.com September / October 2017
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GOLD Cabernet Franc
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2012 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $32
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Judges’ comments: This small producer in Leavenworth has crafted a delicious red with complex aromas of leather, pipe tobacco and blue and black fruits. It’s all beautifully balanced with nice acidity and mild yet taut tannins that lead to a long, gentle finish. (176 cases; 14% alc.)
Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 939 Front St., Leavenworth (509) 548-7638 bergdorfcellarswine.com
Cabernet Franc Stemilt Creek Winery 2014 Transforming Traditions Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $32 Judges’ comments: Stemilt Creek is on the rise, crafting some of the better wines in North Central Washington. This Cab Franc shows off aromas of baking spices, cigar box and cherry pie, followed by rich, succulent flavors of Bing cherries with a hint of caramel from oak aging. (189 cases; 15.5% alc.) Wenatchee tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally 110 N. Wenatchee Ave. (509) 665-3485 stemiltcreek.com Leavenworth tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; noon to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally 617 Front St. #4A (509) 888-5357 stemiltcreek.com 86
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Cabernet Franc
Malaga Springs Winery 2015 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $26 Judges’ comments: This delicious red from south of Malaga unveils complex aromas of violets, black cherries, blueberry and nicely managed chocolaty tannins. Winemaker Al Matthews has crafted a superbly balanced, classic red. (90 cases; 13.6% alc.)
Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday 3450 Cathedral Rock Road, Malaga (509) 679-0152 malagaspringswinery.com
Cabernet Sauvignon
Succession Wines
Gingko Forest Winery
2015 Famiglia Vineyards Cabernet Franc, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $39
2012 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Wahluke Slope, $24
Judges’ comments: We don’t usually associate the cool Ancient Lakes region around the Columbia Basin town of Quincy with red wines, but fruit from this vineyard is the exception. This Cab Franc is a classic, with notes of Rainier cherries, pencil shavings and hints of sweet herbs followed by flavors of ripe black cherry and ripe plum on the palate. It’s all backed by nicely managed tannins that are smooth through the lingering finish. (97 cases; 14.7% alc.) Tasting room open 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 78 Swartout Road, Manson (509) 888-7611 successionwines.com
Judges’ comments: One of the few wineries located on the warm, remote Wahluke Slope, Ginkgo Forest has tasting rooms in Tacoma and Prosser, as well as near Mattawa. This luscious red shows why Cab is king in Washington, with aromas of black currant and blackberry, followed by flavors of plum, apple wood-smoked meat and a hint of cinnamon. The plush mouthfeel gives way to a long, memorable finish. (490 cases; 14.7% alc.) Mattawa tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday 22561 Road T.7 S.W., Mattawa; (509) 932-0082; ginkgowinery.com Prosser tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday 357 Port Ave., Suite D (inside Winemaker’s Loft of Vintner’s Village) (509) 786-1509; ginkgowinery.com Tacoma tasting room open 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon to 4 p.m Sunday 2221 N. 30th St., Tacoma; (253) 301-4372; ginkgowinery.com
Cabernet Sauvignon Goose Ridge Estate Winery 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $38 Judges’ comments: This winery near Richland has North Central Washington connections through its Leavenworth tasting room. Using grapes from its estate vineyard — the largest in Washington at 1,600 acres — the ripe flavors of dried cherries, spiced jerky and leather leap off the palate, followed by flavors of black cherry, blackberry and a hint of anise. This is not a big, fat, overripe cab. Rather it is suave and wellcrafted. (425 cases; 15.6% alc.). Leavenworth tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday 920 Front St. B3 (509) 470-8676 gooseridge.com
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
Plain Cellars
Plain Cellars
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain, $35
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Wahluke Slope, $35
Judges’ comments: Using grapes from Dick Shaw Vineyard on Red Mountain, this top North Central Washington producer has crafted a beautiful Cab with aromas of spices, black cherry, blackberry and raspberry. It’s a luscious wine with surprisingly smooth tannins leading to a long, memorable finish. (115 cases; 14.6% alc.)
Judges’ comments: Another gold medal cab for this North Cascades winery, this time using grapes from the warm Wahluke Slope near Mattawa. Aromas of ripe cherry, blackberry and subtle black olive lead to flavors of black and blue fruit that really expand across the palate. (120 cases; 14.2% alc.)
Plain tasting room open Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through the summer; hours change seasonally 18749 Alpine Acres Road, Plain (509) 548-5412; plaincellars.com
Plain tasting room open Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through the summer; hours change seasonally 18749 Alpine Acres Road, Plain (509) 548-5412; plaincellars.com
Leavenworth tasting room open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. during summer; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Monday for most of the year; extended hours during holidays and festival time 703 Highway 2, Unit A, Leavenworth (509) 548-5412; plaincellars.com
Leavenworth tasting room open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. during summer; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Monday for most of the year; extended hours during holidays and festival time 703 Highway 2, Unit A, Leavenworth (509) 548-5412; plaincellars.com
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September / October 2017
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GOLD Chardonnay
Chardonnay
Eagle Creek Winery
Horan Estates Winery
2015 Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, $22
2015 Bottoms Up Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, $22
Judges’ comments: A delicious Chardonnay from Paul Sharpe, owner/ operator/vintner of this Leavenworth winery. Aromas of tropical fruit, including pineapple, mango and banana, along with hints of Golden Delicious apple, all backed by bright, refreshing acidity that gives way to a juicy finish. (125 cases; 13% alc.) Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Sunday, May through October 10037 Eagle Creek Road, Leavenworth (509) 548-7668; eaglecreekwinery.com The d’Vinery tasting room is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday and Monday; noon to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday 617-4A Front Street, Leavenworth (509) 548-7059; eaglecreekwinery.com
Chardonnay Succession Wines 2016 Chardonnay, ST LASS Lake Chelan, BEST OF C $24 S
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Judges’ comments: This new winery on the north shore of Lake Chelan is producing wines of remarkable quality and consistency, including this superb Chardonnay. It opens with aromas of fresh-sliced Golden Delicious apples, pineapple and lime zest, followed by flavors of ripe orchard fruit. The key to this wine is the remarkable acidity, something we don’t see in most Chardonnays. (125 cases; 13.9% alc.) Tasting room open 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 78 Swartout Road, Manson (509) 888-7611 successionwines.com
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Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday and Monday 207 Mission Ave., Suite B, Cashmere (509) 679-0554 horanestateswinery.com
Malbec
Malbec
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Judges’ comments: This tiny producer in Cashmere enters its second decade of operation by producing some its best wines yet. This luscious Chardonnay reveals aromas and flavors of citrus, apple peel, ripe pear and melted butter. A round, delicious white wine. (420 cases; 13.9% alc.)
Horan Estates Winery 2014 Musicians Malbec, Columbia Valley, $26 Judges’ comments: A superb Malbec from this Cashmere winery, this red opens with aromas of black and blue fruits, cardamom and black cap raspberries on the palate. Sweet, juicy tannins provide a delicate structure that is both inviting and approachable. (98 cases; 14% alc.)
Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday and Monday 207 Mission Ave., Suite B, Cashmere (509) 679-0554 horanestateswinery.com
Malaga Springs Winery 2015 Malbec, Columbia Valley, $24 Judges’ comments: Winemaker Al Matthews made just two barrels of this superb Malbec. It opens with aromas of chocolate-covered cherries, a whiff of smokiness and ripe raspberry. The richness of the midpalate is tempered by tannins that are prevalent without being harsh. Thanks to the rich acidity, this will pair well with a grilled steak, and could benefit from a little time in your cellar. (50 cases; 14.2% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday 3450 Cathedral Rock Road, Malaga (509) 679-0152 malagaspringswinery.com
Malbec Tunnel Hill Winery 2015 Estate Malbec, Lake Chelan, $30 Judges’ comments: Using grapes from Antoine Creek Vineyards outside of the Chelan AVA on the banks of the Columbia River, winemaker Michelle Fanton has crafted a delicious and remarkable Malbec loaded with classic aromas of black pepper, black and blue fruit and even hints of blackcap raspberries. On the palate, the bright acidity and tame tannins allow the ripe flavors of raspberries and Bing Cherries to sing. (144 cases; 14.8% alc.) Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 37 Highway 97A, Chelan (509) 682-3243 tunnelhillwinery.com
CAFE
at the
AIRPORT
Located at Pangborn Memorial Airport Serving satisfied customers since 2009
The Cafe is open Monday-Friday, for all of the outgoing flights.
We serve: ➤ Coffee and Espresso drinks ➤ Baked goods, sandwiches, hot dogs, snacks, drinks, and beer. ➤ Every Wednesday we offer a lunch special. ➤ Thursday is pie day ➤ Hamburgers served on Fridays. ➤ We partner with Amber’ s Cakes and Bakes. Custom cakes and cupcakes can be ordered for your special occasions.
1 Pangborn Rd. #E • East Wenatchee • 509-881-2575 FREE AG-TOURISM, WINE & CULINARY
Merlot Stemilt Creek Winery
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DRIVING MAP Now Online! Travel Tips &
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Judges’ comments: This Wenatcheebased winery with a Leavenworth tasting room has crafted one of the best Merlots you’ll find in North Central Washington. Opening with aromas of cardamom spice, hints of oak and blueberry, leading to flavors of ripe blackberry, a hint of smoked bacon and black olive, this is a deep, complex red with great structure and food-friendly acidity. (59 cases; 15.4% alc.) Wenatchee tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally 110 N. Wenatchee Ave. (509) 665-3485; stemiltcreek.com Leavenworth tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; noon to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally 617 Front St. #4A (509) 888-5357; stemiltcreek.com
CascadeFarmlands.com | 509-548-5058 September / October 2017
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GOLD Other Red
Other Red Baroness Cellars
Cave B Estate Winery
2013 Dolcetto, Yakima Valley, $30
2014 Tempranillo, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $33
Judges’ comments: This Leavenworth winery crafted this delicious red wine from an Italian variety that is starting to take root in Washington. Classic aromas of blueberries and sun-ripened strawberries. On the palate, this beautifully balanced wine unveils flavors of black currants and Rocky Mountain huckleberries. (74 cases; 13.8% alc.) Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 827 Front St., Leavenworth (509) 548-7600 baronesscellars.com
Judges’ comments: Winemaker Freddy Arredondo crafts wines for his father-in-law, Cave B owner Vince Bryan, using estate grapes from the western edge of the Ancient Lakes. This stylish Tempranillo opens with aromas of sweet herbs, spices and crushed blackberries, followed by flavors of lavender, violets, moist earth, leather and ripe Bing cherries. The tannins are expertly managed for a surprisingly smooth finish. (200 cases; 14.1% alc.) Quincy tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally, call tasting room 348 Silica Road N.W., Quincy (next to Gorge Amphitheatre) (509) 785-3500; caveb.com Woodinville tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday and Monday; hours change seasonally, call tasting room 14356 Woodinville-Redmond Road, Redmond (425) 949-7152; caveb.com
Other Red
Other White
Other Red
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Tasting room open daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 26 Highway 20, Winthrop (509) 996-2888 lostriverwinery.com
2015 Tempranillo, O F CL A S ST Columbia Valley, LASS BEST OF C $34 BE
Judges’ comments: This red grape is the third-most-planted in Italy, but still is relatively rare in Washington. Winemaker John Morgan brought in the grapes for this wine from The Benches Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills. The resulting wine is a classic Barbera, with dark color and is loaded with rich fruit and chocolate undertones. It’s loaded with fruit on the palate, and would fare well with grilled steak topped with gorgonzola cheese. (300 cases; 15.2% alc.)
Rio Vista Wines S
2014 Barbera, Horse Heaven Hills, $27
Judges’ comments: Using grapes from an estate vineyard that is snuggled up against the mighty Columbia River, owner/winemaker John Little has crafted this remarkable red that reveals aromas of bright cinnamon, dark cherry and black pepper, followed by rustic flavors of voluptuous red fruit, oak and hints of red licorice, It’s backed by sturdy tannins and mild acidity. (73 cases; 13.8% alc.) Rio Vista on the River tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 24415 Highway 97, Chelan (509) 682-9713; riovistawines.com Rio Vista at the Cabin tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 224 E. Wapato Way, Manson (509) 687-1179; riovistawines.com
90
FOOTHILLS
September / October 2017
Cave B Estate Winery 2016 Cave B Vineyards Chenin Blanc, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $22 Judges’ comments: This winery near George is on a roll, thanks to the talents of winemaker Freddy Arredondo, and he has crafted a magnificent Chenin Blanc with aromas and flavors of bright summer fruits, juicy melon, apple peel, pineapple and gentle minerality. Nice acidity gives way to a lengthy finish. (175 cases; 13.9% alc.) Quincy tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally, call tasting room 348 Silica Road N.W., Quincy (next to Gorge Amphitheatre) (509) 785-3500 caveb.com Woodinville tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday and Monday; hours change seasonally, call tasting room 14356 Woodinville-Redmond Road, Redmond (425) 949-7152 caveb.com
Visit our Tasting Room!
Other White
Open Saturday 12-5 pm & Sunday 11-4 pm
Malaga Springs Winery
Our tasting room is located in the Mission District in an historic remodeled fruit warehouse.
2016 Blanc de Noir, Columbia Valley, $17
207 A Mission Ave. Cashmere, WA (509) 393-1996
www.crayellecellars.com
Judges’ comments: This off-dry pink sipper opens with engaging aromas of just-picked strawberries and flavors of Rainier cherries, pink grapefruit and red raspberries. (85 cases; 14.1% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday 3450 Cathedral Rock Road, Malaga (509) 679-0152 malagaspringswinery.com
Red Blend Bergdorf Cellars 2013 Double Cabernet, Columbia Valley, $40 Judges’ comments: This Leavenworthbased winery has crafted a Bordeauxstyle blend that leads with Cabernet Sauvignon and offers aromas and flavors of blackberry, black currants, blueberries and even a hint a black tar. It’s backed by firm tannins, which give way to a long finish. (176 cases; 14% alc.)
Cheers to great pairings! Some things just go well together, like good food and wine or you and us. We’re honored to partner with the Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival. Let’s create tomorrow, together.
Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 939 Front St., Leavenworth (509) 548-7638 bergdorfcellarswine.com
bannerbank.com
Member FDIC September / October 2017
FOOTHILLS
91
GOLD Red Blend
Red Blend Hard Row to Hoe Vineyards
Chris Daniel Winery 2014 Petite Sirah/Syrah, Columbia Valley, $25 Judges’ comments: This Quincybased winery opened this spring and already is enjoying delicious success with its first vintage. This Rhône-style blend offers aromas of cooked red plums, cigar box, amplified by flavors of huckleberry, blueberry, saskatoon berry and orange zest, all backed by fine-grained tannins and bright red fruit acidity. (190 cases; 13.7% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. 2743 Highway 283 N., Quincy (509) 398-1417 www.chrisdaniel.wine
2014 S&M Syrah • Malbec, Lake Chelan, $38 Judges’ comments: This fun producer on the north shore of Lake Chelan loves its double entendres, and this might be the best yet, thanks to a blend of Syrah and Malbec. These are two grapes that complement the other, as the bright acidity of the Malbec lifts the fruit of the Syrah, a naturally low-acid grape. This example reveals aromas of cocoa powder, blueberry and black pepper, alongside flavors of blackberry, plum, red currant and bittersweet chocolate. (389 cases; 13.8% alc.) Manson tasting room open daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; winter hours are noon to 5 p.m. daily 300 Ivan Morse Road, Manson (509) 687-3000; hardrow.com Leavenworth tasting room open 1 to 7 p.m. daily. 837 Front St., Leavenworth (509) 888-8266; hardrow.com
Red Blend
Red Blend
Ryan Patrick Wines 2015 Rock Island Red, Columbia Valley, $20 Judges’ comments: This smallproduction Bordeaux-style blend is a complex red with aromas of ripe blue and black fruit, clove and black pepper, all backed by refreshing acidity and approachable tannins. (15 cases; 14.5% alc.) Leavenworth tasting room open 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday 636 Front St., Leavenworth (509) 888-2236 ryanpatrickwines.com
92
FOOTHILLS
September / October 2017
Siren Song Vineyard Estate and Winery 2014 Jolie, Wahluke Slope, $36 Judges’ comments: This is owners Holly and Kevin Brown’s tribute to Paris, one of their favorite cities, Using grapes from the Weinbar Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope, this Cab Franc-leading blend unveils aromas of cocoa powder, blueberry, a hint of light toast. A creamy, gentle mouth feel is backed by pleasing tannins and dark chocolate. (150 cases; 13.6% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 7 p.m., Thursday through Monday; hours change seasonally. 635 South Lakeshore Road, Chelan (509) 888-4657 sirensongwines.com
Riesling Milbrandt Vineyards 2016 Evergreen Vineyard Traditions Riesling, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $13 Judges’ comments: The Ancient Lakes in general and Evergreen Vineyard in particular have proven to be a great spot for growing world-class Riesling. So a gold for this wine is no surprise. Aromas of white flower petals, juicy peaches and crisp apple lead to flavors of Asian pear, Golden Delicious apple and hints of minerality. (3,684 cases; 11.5% alc.) Prosser tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 508 Cabernet Court, Prosser (509) 788-0030 milbrandtvineyards.com
Rosé
Riesling
Ryan Patrick Wines
Ryan Patrick Wines
2016 Rosé Wine, Columbia Valley, $15
2016 Olsen ST LASS Brothers Vineyard BEST OF C Riesling, Yakima Valley, $12 O F CL A S
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Judges’ comments: Winemaker Jeremy Santos dipped into this top Riesling vineyards in the relatively cool Yakima Valley to craft this marvelous white wine. Aromas of limestone, honeydew melon and appealing honeysuckle give way to flavors of spice and ripe apricot, with bright acidity balancing the touch of residual sugar. This is a wine with great structure and mouthfeel. (12 alc.%) Leavenworth tasting room open 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday 636 Front St., Leavenworth (509) 888-2236 ryanpatrickwines.com
Judges’ comments: This dry and delightful Provence-style rosé is heavy on Syrah, but also includes dollops of Cinsault, Grenache and Mourvèdre. It exudes aromas and flavors of pomegranate, cranberry, fresh raspberry and a pinch of savory herbs. (1,500 cases; 12% alc.) Leavenworth tasting room open 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday 636 Front St., Leavenworth (509) 888-2236 ryanpatrickwines.com
2 S. Wenatchee Ave. Downtown Wenatchee
509.665.7600
www.collinsfashions.com Follow us on facebook!
Rosé
Rosé Silvara Vineyards
Succession Wines
2016 Rosé, Washington, $22
2016 Antoine Creek Vineyards Rosé, Columbia Valley, $24
Judges’ comments: This superb Syrah rosé from a winery near Leavenworth is compelling from first whiff, thanks to notes of rhubarb and fresh strawberries. On the palate, it reveals flavors that include sweet watermelon, strawberry jam and hints of fresh orange juice. It’s all balanced with refreshing acidity and good length. (112 cases; 12% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily, May through December; noon to 5 p.m. Thursday through Monday, January through April 77 Stage Road, Leavenworth (509) 548-1000 silvarawine.com
Judges’ comments: Made from Pinot Noir, this superb rosé opens with aromas of dusty cherry, summer strawberries and persimmon jelly, along with a touch of lemon-lime. Bright, juicy acidity lifts the fruit through the pleasing finish. (110 cases; 13.8% alc.)
Tasting room open 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 78 Swartout Road, Manson (509) 888-7611 successionwines.com
September / October 2017
Foothills
93
GOLD Syrah
Syrah
Milbrandt Vineyards
Horan Estates Winery
2014 Katherine Leone Vineyard Single Vineyard Series Syrah, Wahluke Slope, $42
2014 CWM Syrah, Columbia Valley, $26 Judges’ comments: Now in its second decade of operation, this Cashmere winery has crafted a Syrah that explodes with aromas and flavors of ripe plum, blackberry and cassis. This exemplifies purity of fruit that is fullbodied while still a bit tightly wound. (178 cases; 14.4% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday and Monday 207 Mission Ave., Suite B, Cashmere (509) 679-0554 horanestateswinery.com
Judges’ comments: Katherine Leone is a vineyard perched on the eastern edge of the Wahluke Slope, overlooking the Columbia River and within view of dramatic Sentinel Gap. It is well established as a top Syrah vineyard. This superb example leads with aromas of eucalyptus and forest floor, followed by flavors of ripe blackberry, marionberry, roasted meat and chocolate-covered cherries. The creamy texture is balanced by rich, precise tannins that give way to a long finish. (200 cases; 15.5% alc.) Prosser tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 508 Cabernet Court, Prosser (509) 788-0030 milbrandtvineyards.com
Syrah Tunnel Hill Winery
September / October 2017
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Tasting room open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 37 Highway 97A, Chelan (509) 682-3243 tunnelhillwinery.com
2016 Antoine S LASS Creek Vineyards BEST OF C Viognier, Columbia Valley, $30 BE
Judges’ comments: This superb Syrah from grapes grown on the south shore of Lake Chelan reveals the diversity of one of Washington’s northern-most grape-growing regions. This opens with captivating aromas of blackberries, French vanilla and black raspberries. On the palate, it reveals flavors of chocolate-covered cherries, black currants and black pepper. It’s richly structured with a creamy midpalate and long, well-integrated tannins. (103 cases; 15.2% alc.)
Rio Vista Wines F CL A S TO
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2015 Estate Syrah, Lake Chelan, $30
94
Viognier
Viognier
Judges’ comments: Antoine Creek is quickly gaining a reputation as the best vineyard in Washington for Viognier, as this wine has won a gold medal or better for the third straight vintage. Aromas of jasmine flowers and hints of orange and mango fruit. On the palate, tropical fruit dominates the flavors, with just a whisper of residual sweetness rounding out the flavors. (222 cases; 13.5% alc.) Rio Vista on the River tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 24415 Highway 97, Chelan (509) 682-9713; riovistawines.com Rio Vista at the Cabin tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 224 E. Wapato Way, Manson (509) 687-1179; riovistawines.com
Succession Wines 2016 Viognier, Columbia Valley, $26 Judges’ comments: This Lake Chelan winery has crafted one of the best versions of this white Rhône grape that we’ve seen. Aromas of jasmine, pears and apricots, followed by classic flavors of orange creamsicle and a hint of dried apricot in the finish. Just a touch of sweetness cleans up Viognier’s natural bitterness. (150 cases; 13.5% alc.) Tasting room open 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily; hours change seasonally 78 Swartout Road, Manson (509) 888-7611 successionwines.com
9 Award Winning Wines including: Double Gold - 2015 Estate Pinot Noir & Setenta Gold - 2015 Estate Malbec & 2015 Estate Syrah
White Blend
W I
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Martin Scott Winery
:: Spectacular Views :: Waterfall Garden :: :: Friendly Faces ::
2016 Peddler’s White, Columbia Valley, $14 Judges’ comments: This popular white blend that includes Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Muscat reveals fresh, fantastic aromas and flavors of buttered toast, honeysuckle, peaches and tropical fruit. A hint of apricot and lime add complexity to the finish. (138 cases; 13.7% alc.) Tasting room open noon to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon 4 p.m. Sunday; hours change seasonally 3400 10th St. SE, East Wenatchee (509) 886-4596 martinscottwinery.com
Come pay us a visit. You’ll enjoy yourself www.tunnelhillwinery.com 37 Hwy 97a :: Chelan, WA (509) 682-3243
LipSense
®
White Blend Rio Vista Wines
Long Lasting Liquid Lip Color
2016 Wacky White, Columbia Valley, $22 Judges’ comments: This unique blend of Chardonnay, Viognier and Riesling is a delicious summer sipper with flavors of tropical and stonefruit. This really wowed the judges with its depth and complexity. (207 cases; 13.25% alc.)
Waterproof, Waterproof, Kiss-Proof, Kiss-Proof, Smear-Proof Smear-Proof color color that that won’t won’t dry dry your your lips lips and and won’t won’t come come off off until until you you take take it it off. off.
Rio Vista on the River tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 24415 Highway 97, Chelan (509) 682-9713 riovistawines.com Rio Vista at the Cabin tasting room open noon to 6 p.m. daily during summer; hours change seasonally 224 E. Wapato Way, Manson (509) 687-1179 riovistawines.com
Blu-Red Blu-Red
Glossy Gloss Glossy Gloss
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Lori Brodin 509.679.6874 • Loribrodin@gmail.com www.senegence.com/lorislavishlips September / October 2017
FOOTHILLS
95
SILVER
Barbera
WineGirl Wines 2015 Reserve Cabernet Franc, Ginkgo Forest Winery Columbia Valley, 2013 Estate Barbera, Wahluke $90 (90 cases) Slope, $24 (240 cases) winegirlwines.com ginkgowinery.com
Cabernet Franc Beaumont Cellars 2015 Cabernet Franc, Wahluke Slope, $32 (100 cases) beaumontcellars.com Errant Cellars 2014 Cabernet Franc, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $24 (59 cases) errantcellars.com Hard Row to Hoe Vineyards 2014 Burning Desire Estate Cabernet Franc, Lake Chelan, $45 (266 cases) hardrow.com Jones of Washington 2013 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $17 (1,134 cases) jonesofwashington.com Plain Cellars 2014 Cabernet Franc, Yakima Valley, $30 (100 cases) plaincellars.com 96
FOOTHILLS
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cave B Estate Winery 2012 Cave B Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $35 (384 cases) caveb.com Eagle Creek Winery 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $35 (144 cases) eaglecreekwinery.com Horan Estates Winery 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $26 (172 cases) horanestateswinery.com Jones of Washington 2012 Jack’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $30 (658 cases) jonesofwashington.com
September / October 2017
Silvara Vineyards Milbrandt Vineyards Villa Monaco Winery 2014 Corner Store Cab, Walla 2015 Evergreen Vineyard The 2016 Chardonnay, Walla Valley, $26 (83 cases) Horse Heaven Hills, Estates Chardonnay, villamonacowinery.com $22 (224 cases) Ancient Lakes of silvarawine.com Columbia Valley, Carménère $22 (965 cases) Chenin Blanc milbrandtvineyards.com Malaga Springs Winery Baroness Cellars 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013 Carménère, Yakima Eagle Creek Winery Napeequa Vintners Red Mountain, Valley, $35 (23 cases) 2015 Chenin Blanc, 2015 Chardonnay, Yakima $100 (100 cases) baronesscellars.com Columbia Valley, Valley, $32 (207 cases) malagaspringswinery.com $19 (140 cases) napeequa.com Chateau Faire Le Pont eaglecreekwinery.com Martin-Scott Winery Winery Plain Cellars 2013 Shaw Vineyard 2013 Carménère, Yakima Dessert 2015 Chardonnay, Snipes Valley, $43 (150 cases) Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Milbrandt Vineyards Mountain, $26 (115 cases) fairelepont.com Mountain, $32 (75 cases) 2015 Evergreen Vineyard Sweet plaincellars.com martinscottwinery.com Katherine Traditions White Jones of Washington Wine, Ancient Lakes of 2013 Estate Carménère, Ryan Patrick Wines Ryan Patrick Wines Columbia Valley, Wahluke Slope, 2015 French Creek Vineyard 2014 Elephant Mountain $13 (233 cases) $30 (330 cases) Reserve Chardonnay, Vineyard Reserve Cabernet milbrandtvineyards.com jonesofwashington.com Columbia Valley, Sauvignon, Rattlesnake Hills, $35 (200 cases) $45 (300 cases) Gewürztraminer Chardonnay ryanpatrickwines.com ryanpatrickwines.com WineGirl Wines Cave B Estate Winery Ryan Patrick Wines 2016 Gewürztraminer, Ancient Silvara Vineyards 2016 Cave B Vineyards 2015 Naked Chardonnay, Lakes of Columbia Valley, 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Unoaked Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, $12 $18 (100 cases) Washington, $32 (125 cases) Ancient Lakes of Columbia ryanpatrickwines.com winegirlwines.com silvarawine.com Valley, $22 (275 cases) caveb.com Ryan Patrick Wines WineGirl Wines Stemilt Creek Winery 2015 Rock Island 2016 Reserve Gewürztraminer, 2014 Ascent Cabernet Hard Row to Hoe Vineyards Chardonnay, Columbia Ancient Lakes of Columbia Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, 2015 Chardonnay, Lake Valley, $20 Valley, $18 (75 cases) $48 (68 cases) Chelan, $25 (204 cases) ryanpatrickwines.com hardrow.com winegirlwines.com stemiltcreek.com Jones of Washington 2013 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Wahluke Slope, $15 (6,104 cases) jonesofwashington.com
Malbec Cave B Estate Winery 2014 Cave B Vineyards Malbec, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $38 (191 cases) caveb.com Ginkgo Forest Winery 2013 Estate Malbec, Wahluke Slope, $24 (145 cases) ginkgowinery.com
2015 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Martin-Scott Winery Merlot 2012 Shaw Vineyard Malbec, Goose Ridge Vineyards Menagerie Merlot, Red Red Mountain, 2012 Estate Merlot, Columbia Mountain, $27 (24 cases) $32 (110 cases) snowgrasswines.com Valley, $32 (385 cases) martinscottwinery.com gooseridge.com Rio Vista Wines 2015 Malbec, Columbia Valley, $36 (129 cases) riovistawines.com
Succession Wines 2015 Antoine Creek Vineyards Jones of Washington Malbec, Columbia Valley, 2013 Estate Malbec, Wahluke $34 (107 cases) Slope, $30 (330 cases) jonesofwashington.com successionwines.com
Jones of Washington 2012 Estate Merlot, Wahluke Slope, $15 (1,810 cases) jonesofwashington.com Lost River Winery 2013 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $26 (300 cases) lostriverwinery.com Snowgrass Winery
Stemilt Creek Winery 2014 Caring Passion Merlot, Columbia Valley, $17 (479 cases) stemiltcreek.com Wedge Mountain Winery 2015 Merlot, Columbia Valley, $28 (100 cases) wedgemountainwinery.com
Montepulciano Martin-Scott Winery 2014 Needlerock Vineyard Montepulciano, Columbia Valley, $31 (46 cases) martinscottwinery.com
Mourvèdre Beaumont Cellars 2015 Reserve Mourvèdre, Wahluke Slope, $39 (130 cases) beaumontcellars.com
Ginkgo Forest Winery 2010 Estate Reserve Mourvèdre, Wahluke Slope, $38 (24 cases) ginkgowinery.com Snowgrass Winery 2014 Heart of the Hill Vineyard Rapscallion Mourvèdre, Red Mountain, $32 (24 cases) snowgrasswines.com
Muscat Canelli Malaga Springs Winery 2016 Muscat Canelli, Columbia Valley, $17 (45 cases) malagaspringswinery.com
Swede Hill Distilling
• Family owned and operated • Award winning wines • Panoramic valley view • Catered events Open Friday & Saturday Noon to 5 Sunday Noon to 4 Visit MartinScottWinery.com for summer hours.
Swede Hill Distilling is located deep within the beautiful apple orchards of the Yakima Valley. We are proud to use produce from local farmers to flavor our distinctly unique hand-crafted spirits. Experience Excellence, Experience Swede Hill FOLLOW US ON
S wede H ill d iStilling . com Swede Hill Distillery 10-28 FOOTHILLS 2x4.69 full color September / October 2017 Joe JW Proof to rep 1028.00023783.2x4.69.Nov/DecFoothills.
FOOTHILLS
97
SILVER Rio Vista Wines 2015 River View Red Grand Reserve Blend, Columbia Valley, $38 (124 cases) riovistawines.com Ryan Patrick Wines 2015 Redhead Red Red Wine, Columbia Valley, $15 ryanpatrickwines.com
Nebbiolo
Pinot Noir
Baroness Cellars 2013 Nebbiolo, Columbia Valley, $28 (76 cases) baronesscellars.com
Ginkgo Forest Winery 2013 Estate Pinot Noir, Wahluke Slope, $25 (98 cases) ginkgowinery.com
Petite Sirah Plain Cellars 2014 Petite Sirah, Yakima Valley, $35 (120 cases) plaincellars.com
Petit Verdot Beaumont Cellars 2015 Reserve Petit Verdot, Wahluke Slope, $39 (120 cases) beaumontcellars.com Siren Song Vineyard Estate and Winery 2014 Siren’s Reserve Petit Verdot, Walla Walla Valley, $48 (150 cases) sirensongwines.com
Pinot Gris Eagle Creek Winery 2015 Pinot Grigio, Columbia Valley, $20 (110 cases) eaglecreekwinery.com Jones of Washington 2015 Pinot Gris, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $14 (1,973 cases) jonesofwashington.com Napeequa Vintners 2016 Davey Outrageous Presents ¡Chica! Pinot Gris, Columbia Valley, $19 (200 cases) napeequa.com 98
FOOTHILLS
Succession Wines 2015 Pinot Noir, Columbia Valley, $39 (72 cases) successionwines.com
Red Blend Cave B Estate Winery 2013 Cave B Vineyards Cuvée Du Soleil, Columbia Valley, $50 (120 cases) caveb.com Cave B Estate Winery 2014 Caveman Red Wine, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $19 (483 cases) caveb.com Chateau Faire Le Pont Winery 2013 Confluence, Washington, $48 (300 cases) fairelepont.com Chateau Faire Le Pont Winery 2013 Provence, Washington, $40 (250 cases) fairelepont.com Chateau Faire Le Pont Winery 2013 Tre Amori Red Wine, Columbia Valley, $40 (275 cases) fairelepont.com
Eagle Creek Winery 2014 D. LoVarco Super Tuscan Blend, Columbia Valley, $35 (110 cases) eaglecreekwinery.com Eagle Creek Winery 2014 Montage, Columbia Valley, $25 (110 cases) eaglecreekwinery.com Errant Cellars 2014 8/05 Red, Columbia Valley, $25 (61 cases) errantcellars.com Errant Cellars 2014 Henry’s Red, Columbia Valley, $23 (105 cases) errantcellars.com Horan Estates Winery 2014 HVH Red Blend, Columbia Valley, $26 (183 cases) horanestateswinery.com Jones of Washington 2012 Estate Vineyards Barrel Select Red Wine, Wahluke Slope, $30 (546 cases) jonesofwashington.com Napeequa Vintners 2014 SLR Red Wine, Columbia Valley, $39 (186 cases) napeequa.com
Napeequa Vintners Davey Outrageous Presents ... Grill Thrill Red Blend, Crayelle Cellars Columbia Valley, 2015 Gabriel’s Horn, Columbia Valley, $27 (115 cases) $24 (250 cases) crayellecellars.com napeequa.com
September / October 2017
Stemilt Creek Winery 2014 Estate Boss Lady Red Blend, Columbia Valley, $24 (403 cases) stemiltcreek.com
Riesling
Roussanne
Jones of Washington 2015 Estate Riesling, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $10 (1,787 cases) jonesofwashington.com
Cave B Estate Winery 2016 Roussanne, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $25 (200 cases) caveb.com
Leony’s Cellars 2016 Honeymoon Riesling, Naches Heights, $22 (49 cases) leonyscellars.com Rio Vista Wines 2016 Riesling, Columbia Valley, $27 (83 cases) riovistawines.com
Stemilt Creek Winery 2014 Kyle’s Fair Market Red Red Blend, Columbia Valley, $15 (367 cases) stemiltcreek.com
Tunnel Hill Winery 2016 Estate Riesling, Lake Chelan, $17 (136 cases) tunnelhillwinery.com
Succession Wines 2015 Bridge Builder’s Blend, Columbia Valley, $34 (139 cases) successionwines.com
Cave B Estate Winery 2016 Cave B Vineyards Dry Rosé, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $18 (450 cases) caveb.com
Tunnel Hill Winery Sacrilege, Lake Chelan, $25 (106 cases) tunnelhillwinery.com Villa Monaco Winery 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot, Columbia Valley, $26 (54 cases) villamonacowinery.com
Rosé
Sangiovese Cave B Estate Winery 2014 Cave B Vineyards Sangiovese, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $33 (187 cases) caveb.com Errant Cellars 2014 Sangiovese, Columbia Valley, $23 (77 cases) errantcellars.com Ginkgo Forest Winery 2013 Estate Sangiovese, Wahluke Slope, $24 (142 cases) ginkgowinery.com Jones of Washington 2012 Sangiovese, Columbia Valley, $15 (964 cases) jonesofwashington.com
Sauvignon Blanc
Cave B Estate Winery 2016 Cave B Vineyards Goose Ridge Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, 2016 Rosé, Columbia Valley, $25 (300 cases) $20 (412 cases) caveb.com gooseridge.com
Crayelle Cellars Hard Row to Hoe 2016 Neve’s Blanc Sauvignon Vineyards Blanc, Ancient Lakes of 2016 Shameless Hussy Rosé, Columbia Valley, $21 (55 cases) Columbia Valley, crayellecellars.com $22 (393 cases) Villa Monaco Winery hardrow.com Malaga Springs Winery 2014 Ruthie’s Reserve, 2016 Sauvignon Blanc, Washington, $26 (83 cases) Milbrandt Vineyards Washington, $16 (100 cases) villamonacowinery.com 2016 Rosé, Columbia Valley, malagaspringswinery.com $13 (2,500 cases) Wedge Mountain Winery milbrandtvineyards.com Succession Wines 2015 Les Chevaux 2016 Sauvignon Blanc, Ancient Magnifiques Red Wine Blend, Lakes of Columbia Valley, Stemilt Creek Winery $26 (109 cases) Columbia Valley, 2016 Ascent Rosé, successionwines.com $36 (125 cases) Columbia Valley wedgemountainwinery.com stemiltcreek.com
Sparkling
WineGirl Wines 2014 Red Wine Blend, Columbia Valley, $38 (100 cases) winegirlwines.com
Stemilt Creek Winery Marie Antoinette Sherwood Nettie Rosé, Columbia Valley (220 cases) stemiltcreek.com
Hard Row to Hoe Vineyards 2015 Good in Bed Sparkling Wine, Lake Chelan, $56 (125 cases) hardrow.com
Syrah Beaumont Cellars 2015 Reserve Syrah, Wahluke Slope, $39 (125 cases) beaumontcellars.com Beaumont Cellars 2015 Syrah, Wahluke Slope, $32 (115 cases) beaumontcellars.com
Horan Estates Winery 2012 Reserve Syrah, Columbia Valley, $34 (203 cases) horanestateswinery.com Jones of Washington 2013 Estate Syrah, Wahluke Slope, $17 (1,723 cases) jonesofwashington.com
Tempranillo Beaumont Cellars 2016 Tempranillo, Wahluke Slope, $32 (124 cases) beaumontcellars.com Crayelle Cellars Tempranillo, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $27 (85 cases) crayellecellars.com
Leony’s Cellars 2016 Alluring Whisper Viognier, Columbia Valley, $22 (47 cases) leonyscellars.com Tunnel Hill Winery 2016 Estate Viognier, Lake Chelan, $19 tunnelhillwinery.com
Malaga Springs Winery Cave B Estate Winery White Blend 2015 Syrah, Columbia Valley, 2014 Cave B Vineyards Syrah, $24 (80 cases) Viognier Beaumont Cellars Ancient Lakes of Columbia malagaspringswinery.com Valley, $30 (141 cases) 2016 Pete’s Crushpad Blend Horan Estates Winery caveb.com 2015 Viognier, Ancient Lakes White Wine, Columbia Valley, Ryan Patrick Wines $21 (130 cases) of Columbia Valley, 2014 Red Heaven Vineyard Chris Daniel Winery beaumontcellars.com $22 (100 cases) 2014 Syrah, Columbia Valley, Reserve Syrah, Red Mountain, horanestateswinery.com $35 (260 cases) $32 (97 cases) CE Vineyards ryanpatrickwines.com www.chrisdaniel.wine 2014 Chardonnay/ Jones of Washington Roussanne/Viognier, 2015 Estate Viognier, Stemilt Creek Winery Errant Cellars Columbia Valley, Wahluke Slope, 2014 Syrah, Horse Heaven 2014 Ascent Syrah, Columbia $20 (366 cases) $17 (714 cases) Valley, $45 (64 cases) Hills, $24 (82 cases) stemiltcreek.com chelanestatewinery.com errantcellars.com jonesofwashington.com
Eagle Creek Winery 2015 Alder Weiss White Wine Blend, Columbia Valley, $23 (140 cases) eaglecreekwinery.com Errant Cellars 2015 Wanderer’s White, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $18 (115 cases) errantcellars.com Hard Row to Hoe Vineyards 2015 Rumours 66% Roussanne 34% Marsanne, Lake Chelan, $25 (142 cases) hardrow.com
Succession Wines 2016 Vixen White Wine, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $28 (60 cases) successionwines.com Tunnel Hill Winery 2016 Camino White Wine, Columbia Valley, $17 (213 cases) tunnelhillwinery.com
Zinfandel Beaumont Cellars 2015 Zinfandel, Wahluke Slope, $32 (90 cases) beaumontcellars.com
Hard Row to Hoe Vineyards 2016 Nauti Buoy White Wine, Lake Chelan, $22 (211 cases) hardrow.com Jones of Washington 2016 Pybus Market White Wine, Columbia Valley, $17 (330 cases) jonesofwashington.com
Malaga Springs Winery 2015 Zinfandel, Columbia Valley, $22 (75 cases) malagaspringswinery.com
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BRONZE
Cabernet Sauvignon
Carménère
Bergdorf Cellars 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $32 (220 cases) bergdorfcellars.com Chris Daniel Winery 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $35 (190 cases) www.chrisdaniel.wine Errant Cellars 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Wahluke Slope, $23 (80 cases) errantcellars.com Rio Vista Wines 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $32 (198 cases) riovistawines.com Stemilt Creek Winery 2014 A Day’s Work Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $26 (529 cases) stemiltcreek.com 100 FOOTHILLS
Ginkgo Forest Winery 2013 Carménère, Wahluke Slope, $30 (148 cases) ginkgowinery.com
Barbera Cave B Estate Winery 2014 Cave B Vineyards Barbera, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $35 (193 cases) caveb.com
Chardonnay Jones of Washington 2015 Chardonnay, Wahluke Slope, $14 (538 cases) jonesofwashington.com Lost River Winery 2015 Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, $18 (153 cases) lostriverwinery.com WineGirl Wines 2014 Chardonnay, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $22 (120 cases) winegirlwines.com
September / October 2017
Pinot Noir
Riesling
Chelan Estate Winery 2011 Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir, Lake Chelan, $25 (390 cases) chelanestatewinery.com
Stemilt Creek Winery Sweet Adelaide Riesling, Columbia Valley, $13 (483 cases) stemiltcreek.com
Dessert
Primitivo
Jones of Washington 2016 Late Harvest Viognier, Wahluke Slope, $20 (427 cases) jonesofwashington.com
Hard Row to Hoe Vineyards 2014 Primitivo, Wahluke Slope, $49 (155 cases) hardrow.com
Rosé Chris Daniel Winery 2015 Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $19 (45 cases) chrisdaniel.wine
WineGirl Wines 2016 Tinta Roriz, Naches Heights, $58 (60 cases) winegirlwines.com
Red Blend
MVP Vintners 2015 Gypsy Rosé, Columbia Valley, $35 (70 cases) facebook.com/ mvpvintnerschelan
WineGirl Wines 2015 Reserve Chardonnay, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $22 (120 cases) winegirlwines.com
Malbec Errant Cellars 2014 Malbec, Columbia Valley, $24 (46 cases) errantcellars.com
Merlot Rio Vista Wines 2015 Estate Merlot, Columbia Valley, $32 (139 cases) riovistawines.com
Eagle Creek Winery 2009 Tre die Cinque Three Outta Five, Rattlesnake Hills, $66 (110 cases) eaglecreekwinery.com Errant Cellars 2014 Raven’s Red, Columbia Valley, $ 23 (75 cases) errantcellars.com MVP Vintners 2014 Vino Secreto Red Blend, Columbia Valley, $50 (200 cases) facebook.com/ mvpvintnerschelan
Napeequa Vintners 2016 Davey Outrageous Presents Pinkie a*go*go, Columbia Valley, $21 (214 cases) napeequa.com Tunnel Hill Winery 2016 Estate Pinot Noir Rosé, Lake Chelan, $20 (60 cases) tunnelhillwinery.com
WineGirl Wines 2016 Syrah Rosé, Lake Chelan, $22 (60 cases) winegirlwines.com
Sangiovese Malaga Springs Winery 2015 Sangiovese, Columbia Valley, $24 (50 cases) malagaspringswinery.com
Tempranillo MVP Vintners 2013 Vino Secreto Tempranillo, Wahluke Slope, $55 (130 cases) facebook.com/ mvpvintnerschelan
White Blend Goose Ridge Vineyards 2015 GRV White Blend, Columbia Valley, $25 (518 cases) gooseridge.com
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September / October 2017
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Wine Label Contest
The judges:
Arius Elvikis holds a Master of Fine Arts from Arizona State University and teaches computer graphics and digital design at Wenatchee Valley College.
T
he Wenatchee Wine & Food Festival introduced a new component this year, inviting wineries to submit entries for a Wine Label Contest. We received more than 40 entries from about
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Jan Lutz was executive director of Wenatchee Wine Country, a non-proďŹ t promoting wine tourism and local wineries, until 2014. Nancy Phillips worked as a freelance graphic designer for over 30 years including design, social media management and photography for a few local wineries. She is an advertising and layout designer for The Wenatchee World and Foothills Magazine.
a dozen wineries in North Central Washington. Judges Arius Elvikis, Jan Lutz and Nancy Phillips met in mid-June to review entries and decide on the award winners.
Judges’ review:
The work of artist Kerry Siderius, daughter of the Rio Vista owners John and Jan Little, is featured on the winery’s bottles. The vineyard watercolor painting used on this Malbec makes us want to visit Rio Vista’s tasting room along the Columbia River to see it in person. A vineyard image on a bottle of wine seems like an obvious choice, but studying the image makes you realize the painting was carefully crafted, suggesting the same care and attention would go into the wine. Great graphical work was done blocking off the sections with the artwork, varietal name, logo and information. Sometimes it’s a lot of information to put on one label but Rio Vista didn’t compromise.
ign: s e D c i h p t Gra s e B / w o h Best of S Cellars 2016 Rosé Crayelle
Original artwork: Kerry Siderius Label layout: Doug O’Bryan, J Russell Creative Marketing Printer: Crush Creative Packaging
f Art: o e s U t s Be bec l a M 5 1 0 ines 2 W a t s i V o Ri
Judges’ review:
This label is clean and sophisticated with a good use of color to complement the wine’s hue. The abstract watercolor grapes feature a gentle-shifting color palette that contrasts nicely with a uniform grid of spirals. The overlaid gold foil stamp and arched diecut give it a strong visual contrast and are details which were well thought out, giving it a professional, finished look. The text is also unique with the creative reinterpretation of the Y. Overall, it’s a classy choice that would stand out on a store shelf filled with many other bottles. Label designer: Elena and Aaron Payne (Awdience Design) Printer: Trysk Print Solutions September / October 2017
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s: Best Serie ery Win s e t a t s E Horan
Judgesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; review:
It helps to remember a winery and its name when a story is told. The Horan family dates back to the early founding of Wenatchee, with some of the more prominent members represented in
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this series. Their individual stories are told on the back label, creating a connection to a particular variety. The design consistency across each bottle makes it a strong group. The year format and horizontal band with the
Horan name stays the same while the vintage photos and focused color palettes change from bottle to bottle. Just like a family, when lined up, this series of bottles stands strong.
Label designer: Brett Floyd Printer: Trysk Print Solutions
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Judges’ review:
This wine is the namesake of owners Mike and Judi Scott’s son Chris, who in his earlier adventures delivered the family’s wines by bicycle. Among the entries we reviewed, Peddler’s White was one of the few labels that played a bit with the text. Each letter looks like it was placed with some intent ... a tiny “the” placed over an enlarged P which descends below the rest of the word Peddler. The label has a futuristic “steampunk” feel to it with the incorporation of the gear graphics and the diagonal placement of the type; just that portion would be a strong stand-alone logo.
e: v i t a r r a N t ort Bes P l w O y k Smo 5 1 0 2 s e n i Rio Vista W
Label designer: Korey Korfiatis Printer: Okanagan Label & Print
ype: T f o e s U t Bes ery n i W t t o c Martin-S ’s White dler 2016 Ped
Judges’ review:
This bottle image represents the horrific Chelan Complex wildfires of 2015. The owl depicted on the label survived, as did Rio Vista’s grapes, even though there was a smokiness to the grapes. The watercolor illustration is well done, but it’s the narrative on the back — the place where vintners have a chance to tell the tale of their wine — that pulls one in and tells how and why this luscious port got its name. Drama with a happy ending — cheers to that! Original artwork: Kerry Siderius Label designer: Doug O’Bryan, J Russell Creative Marketing Printer: Crush Creative Packaging 106 FOOTHILLS
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Marco’s review:
Malaga Springs’ most recognizable label is a painting created by Allen’s mom, the late Vera Mathews, which shows the winery and vineyard as it started out in 2004. It has graced the bottle of many different varieties produced by the winery over the years. The label I picked for Editor’s Choice was designed by Allen and Blind Renaissance Design as an extension of Vera’s artistic reach. Allen says the artwork attempts to capture the graceful evolution of a dark (red) grape to an elegant white style wine of exceptional balance and delicacy. Mission accomplished.
ITALIAN RESTAURANT
2013 RE STAURA NT OF T HE Y EA R WASHINGTON WI NE AWARDS
20 09-2010 WINEMAKERS’ CHOICE AWARD WASHINGTON WI NEMA KERS
Label designer: Allen Mathews and Blind Renaissance design East Wenatchee
20 02 WASHINGTON GRAPE GROWERS RESTAURA NT APPRECIATION
Printer: Columbia Label
1998-201 AWAR D OF EXCELLEN CE WI NE SPECTATOR MAGA ZINE
oice: h C s ’ r o t i d E inery W s g n i r p Malaga S de Noir c 2015 Blan
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Tuesday – Friday 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Indian food is comprised of six basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter and astringent. A well-balanced Indian meal contains many of these flavors. This principle explains the use of numerous spice combinations and depth of flavor.
Full Menu Available All Day Vegan and Gluten Free Options Available To view our full menu go to our website: www.indiahousewenatchee.com 105 S. Wenatchee Ave. 509.888.5334
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Grab your wrist corsage or bowtie and take a trip back to
THE GOLDEN AGE If you’re a senior (citizen, that is), you’re invited to a Senior Senior Prom at Pybus Public Market on Friday, Oct. 6 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Don’t miss the fun, with live music, Prom King and Queen, photographer, drinks and appetizers. All proceeds from ticket sales ($15 each or $25 couple) will go to the Alzheimer’s Association. Get yours today at Highgate Senior Living, 1320 South Miller. Prom night is coming and it’s going to be golden!
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Tasting Rooms in woodinville & quincy
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Located in THE OBERTAL MALL The only Pink Mall in Leavenworth
Sunday - Thursday (9-5) Friday & Saturday (9-6)
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PARTING SHOT
PHOTO BY MIKE BONNICKSEN
A sunflower droops in a field in East Wenatchee in late July.
OOTHILLS WENATCHEE ◆ LEAVENWORTH ◆ CHELAN AND ALL OF NORTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON
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Cave B Estate Winery
2017 NCW Award Winners: DOUBLE GOLD
2016 Viognier 2016 Cavewoman White
Winner of 15 AWARDS
Cave B Estate Winery takes home 15 awards at the 2017 North Central Washington Wine Judging Event Cave B Estate Winery is an award-winning boutique winery located in Quincy, WA in the Ancient Lakes of the Columbia Valley AVA, directly adjacent to the world famous Gorge Amphitheater. Cave B Winemaker Freddy Arredondo, a former Chef and Winemaker at Cave B since 2006, is crafting food friendly wines with varietal distinction, character and depth. Join us for wine tasting and beautiful views of our vineyards and the Columbia River. Save the date of Saturday, September 30th, 2017 for our Harvest Festival.
WWW.CAVEB.COM • 509-785-3500 Relax-Unwind-Enjoy
GOLD
2014 Tempranillo 2016 Chenin Blanc
SILVER
2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 Cuvée du Soleil 2014 Malbec 2014 Sangiovese 2014 Syrah 2014 Caveman Red 2016 Dry Rosé 2016 Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Unoaked Chardonnay 2016 Roussanne
BRONZE
Barbera September2014 / October 2017 Foothills
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