L’Ecole Stars

L'Ecole Stars Five ReleasesEvery year, talented winemakers Marty Clubb, Marcus Rafanelli and their team produce L’Ecole stars. From refreshing whites to luscious reds, L’Ecole wines move to the front of the class. These five fall releases continue the trend of impressive wines from the historic schoolhouse in Walla Walla — especially the magnificent 2020 Cellar Selection Cabernet Sauvignon (which honors L’Ecole’s 40th anniversary). L’Ecole is one of the most honored wineries in WA, and has generated national and international accolades for superior quality wines. Read on for more about these five stars.

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Winemaker Picnic

Winemaker Picnic SignEvery year, we always have a wonderful time at the Auction of Washington Wines, especially the Winemaker Picnic & Barrel Auction at Chateau Ste. Michelle. And this year was no exception. We talked to winemakers, caught up with old friends, and celebrated Washington wine. Above all, proceeds from these incredible non-profit events benefit Seattle Children’s Hospital and Washington State University Viticulture & Enology Program. Continue reading

Va Piano Wines

Va Piano Tasting RoomVa Piano Vineyards celebrates its 20th anniversary this fall, and we’re proud to have been drinking Va Piano wines for 13 of those years. We always visit excellent winemaker/owner Justin Wiley, his dog Murphy and his winery whenever we travel to Walla Walla. And we always have a memorable tasting experience, whether outside or in the friendly tasting room. Most recently, we spent a relaxing afternoon with Justin in his scenic, beautifully landscaped outdoor area, with stunning views of the Blue Mountains and surrounding vineyards.

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Canvasback Wines

Canvasback WinesWe tasted nine Canvasback wines in June, when we visited the winery‘s rustic yet elegant tasting room for the first time. What a lovely Walla Walla location to experience Canvasback’s extensive wine portfolio. From sophisticated to hedonistic, polished to luscious, and refreshing to captivating, Canvasback has it all. Duckhorn pioneers Dan and Margaret Duckhorn founded the winery in 2012, and named it after the Canvasback duck, native to the Pacific Flyway.

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