Be sure to head to Senoj Estates in November for the release of 2007 Primitivo – we had a pre-release bottle last night and wow, we will definitely go back to Woodinville for more. Primitivo is the genetic twin of Zinfindel, and it’s becoming more and more popular in Washington state. And Senoj winemaker Jeff Jones has made the best bottle that we have tasted so far.

Perhaps it’s because 4% Cabernet Sauvignon was used to shore up the back end of the 96% Primitivo. Or maybe because Jones (whose name spelled backward is Senoj) uses a subtle style to create wines that pair very well with food. (Dave made his delicious spaghetti to pair with Senoj Primitivo last night.)

The winery’s tasting notes describe it best: From Coyote Canyon Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, our Primitivo is a bold and boisterous wine, loud and proud. The Primitivo provides blackberry and pepper highlights on the nose, while a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon gives rise to a smooth middle palate and tasteful tannic finish. This wine is deep, drinkable, and delicious.

We’ve always been fans of Senoj’s medium-bodied Passport, which is a right-bank-influenced Bordeaux-style blend — 70% Merlot blended with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petite Verdot. Senoj also recently released a 2008 Viognier that has a rounded mouthfeel; and a Carmeniere, a close cousin to Merlot, will be available in 2010.

Senoj reopened its tasting room this summer in the Woodinville warehouse district. Check out the new wine lounge, which includes a 120″ LCD projection screen, high-def televisions, ping pong tables and dart boards.

Cheers!