L’Ecole 41 is a third-generation, family-owned artisan winery. Most importantly, it is one of the most honored wineries in Washington state, and has generated national and international accolades over the years for producing superior quality wines. We’ve been fans of L’Ecole since we moved to Washington in 1999. As a result, we frequently visit their historic schoolhouse in Walla Walla, and know their talented winemakers Marty Clubb and Marcus Rafanelli, and their amazing wines. So, we were delighted to sample six L’Ecole 2023 releases. Once again, L’Ecole scored. These are the impressive wines we tasted: 2020 Ferguson Estate, 40th Anniversary Red, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc-Merlot; 2021 Sémillon, and 2022 Grenache Rosé.
Category Archives: Sémillon
Vanessa Vineyard
We finally visited Vanessa Vineyard, located in B.C.’s picturesque Similkameen Valley, west of Osoyoos. We’ve been fans of the winery’s esteemed winemaker Howard Soon for years. And while we have tasted three vintages of his outstanding Meritage red blend, we had never stopped by the winery, where he played a key role from the beginning. What a treat! All of Howard’s wines are impressive, and we also had the pleasure of meeting owners Suki and Desha Sekhon.
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Summer White Wines
Our enjoyment of summer white wines increases every year. Until recently, our palates preferred Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris/Grigio. But these days, we also appreciate the refreshing, wallet-friendly Turbiana grape from Lugana, Italy and Marsanne from here in Washington state. Most importantly, there are so many wonderful summer white wines. For example, here are 25 that we have enjoyed from Washington, Oregon, British Columbia, Italy, France, South Africa and New Zealand. Most of them are everyday, good-value porch pounders or deck wines, but a few shine with an elegant meal.
L’Ecole Wine Gifts
Trying to find wines or gift sets for the wine enthusiast in your life? Consider L’Ecole wine gifts – there are options for everybody, including select gifts with shipping included. But you’d better hurry because if you live in the northwest and want it to arrive by Dec. 25, the cutoff date is Dec. 20 to place your order. Similarly, if you live outside the northwest, Dec. 20 is the cutoff point for second-day air. In addition, you can give a gift to become a L’Ecole wine club member.