April 22 is Earth Day, a great time to open a bottle of value wine from Snoqualmie Vineyards. According to the winery, they have the largest certified organic vineyard in Washington state.
“Whether it’s in our vineyard, the winery or in our packaging, Snoqualmie wines are made using sustainable and organic practices and are designed to showcase the best winemaking techniques and vineyard selections.”
- Vineyard – Weather stations and soil moisture-measuring probes monitor water use and eliminate wasted water.
- Winery – A recycling program includes paper, glass, cork and aluminum waste that reduces solid waste by more than 8%. Eco-friendly energy options in the winery have reduced electricity usage by 30% in the last five years.
- Packaging – ECO glass bottles are among the lightest in the industry, printed materials are on 100% post-consumer waste material stock, and corks and labels are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
Part of Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Snoqualmie Vineyards sent us a few samples of the latest releases of their good value, every-day wines to taste. We recommend them as a great entry-level experience into the world of wines – on Earth Day or any day of the year.
Snoqualmie 2015 ECO Chardonnay ($13)
Snoqualmie’s ECO wines are produced from 100% organically grown grapes from USDA-certified organic vineyards in the Columbia Valley. No oak was used in this Chardonnay, so the result is a refreshing taste of crisp fruit flavors. Pair it with crab, other seafood dishes, chicken or a summer salad.
Snoqualmie 2015 ECO Cabernet Sauvignon ($13)
This Cabernet Sauvignon is also made from organically grown fruit in the Columbia Valley. It is a good value if you like fruity Cabs; you’ll find it bursting with fruit aromas and jammy flavors. Pair it with most meat dishes or fragrant cheeses.
Snoqualmie 2014 Syrah Columbia Valley ($10)
This value Syrah offers dark fruit on the nose, with flavors of chocolate, smoke and a bit of spice, coffee and pepper. Pair it with pizza, lasagna or pasta.
Snoqualmie 2015 Winemaker’s Select Riesling ($8)
If you like your Rieslings crisp and refreshing, sweet but tart, give this Winemaker’s Select a try. Almost 6% of Viognier was added to round out the Riesling. The nose is a lovely blend of pear, apple, honey and apricot aromas, followed by a light mouthfeel of spice and fruit. Pair it with seafood dishes, crab or smoked salmon.
Cheers,
Margot and Dave