Succession

 Brock Lindsay, co-owner and winemaker of Succession Wines In September, we visited Succession Winery in the Lake Chelan Valley with our good friends, Chuck and Rita Kinzer. And we were instantly reminded why we decided two years ago that Succession is a winery to watch. That’s when we first met talented winemaker Brock Lindsay, who is co-owner with his wife Erica. This year, Brock was on the crush pad processing Merlot when we stopped by. But he kindly took a break to chat. Read on for details of their story and wine.

Continue reading

Whole Picture Cab Franc

Bottles of Whole Picture Cab FrancIf you love Cabernet Franc, be sure to try this upcoming release from Hard Row to Hoe. You might know it from previous vintages as Burning Desire, but it’s now called 2018 Whole Picture Cab Franc. In other words, Hard Row produces this organically farmed, luscious wine under its new Whole Picture label, which features wine made exclusively from their estate vineyard. Read on to learn more about this gorgeous wine, and more about Whole Picture.

Continue reading

Amphora Cabernet Franc

Hard Row to Hoe Amphora Cabernet Franc LabelJust in time for Valentine’s Day, Hard Row to Hoe offers a new Amphora Cabernet Franc that is light, fresh and beautiful. This organically-grown Cab Franc is produced under the winery’s new Whole Picture label, which features wine made exclusively from their estate vineyard. Overall, the new packaging is a departure from the titillating brothel story that has been integral to the winery. Most importantly, it shows the growth of winemaking by co-owner Judy Phelps, and vineyard practices by her husband and co-owner, Don Phelps. Hard Row to Hoe has been one of our favorite Washington wineries for years. Certainly, this beautiful 2019 Amphora Cabernet Franc underlines why.

Continue reading

Stats and Facts

Glasses of red and white wineEvery year around this time, we love to share stats and facts about the wonderful wine industry in Washington state. Therefore, we hope you enjoy this 2020 version, courtesy of Washington Wine.

Firstly, the number of wineries grew to more than 1,000, compared to 19 in 1981. Secondly, more than 70 varieties of grapes are grown now. That compares to 30 just six short years ago. Thirdly, the ratio is 59% red and 41% white, a flip from 55% white and 45% red six years ago. Further, the average amount of summer sunshine in Washington state, compared to California, might surprise you! Read on for fun stats and facts about Washington wine. Continue reading