195 NE Gilman Blvd, Issaquah,
Washington 98027
Phone: 001 425 489 0544 Fax: 001 425 391 3827
UK importer: Berkmann Wine Cellars
This Washington State producer makes distinctive wines. I was a bit
unsure about the Fumé Chardonnay, but the three reds were superb
examples, culminating in the lovely 1997 Red Mountain Reserve.
1999 Fumé Chardonnay
A rather unusual blend of 25% Sauvignon Blanc and 75% Chardonnay.
This wine shows an unusually intense, aromatic herbal nose. The herbal
character carries through to the palate. Very unusual, and a bit
off-putting. Good/very good
1999 Columbia Valley Red
This blend of Cabernet and Merlot has a lovely, leafy herbal nose
with pronounced berry fruit character. On the palate the ripe fruit
dominates. Concentrated and accessible, this is bright, tasty stuff.
Very good+
1998 Three Vineyards
Attractive nose showing blackcurrant fruit with some smoke and
herbs. Dense fruit and firm tannins on the palate. Needs time? Very
good+ (This is stocked by Waitrose in the UK, priced around £15)
1997 Red Mountain Reserve
Exotic, menthol-laced nose with pure fruit and lush oaking. Dense,
spicy and rich on the palate: almost impenetrable, with lots of fruit
and new oak. Very full on and in an international style, this wine
shows good ageing potential. Very good/excellent