Warm Weather Whites

Certainly, our enjoyment of warm weather whites increases every year. Until recently, our palates preferred Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris/Grigio. But these days, we also appreciate the beautiful Sancerres and Picpoul from France, in addition to the refreshing, wallet-friendly Turbiana grape from Lugana, Italy. Most importantly, there are so many wonderful wines to explore this summer. For example, here are some that we have tasted from Washington state, Oregon, California, Italy, France, Armenia and New Zealand.

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L’Ecole Wine Production

L'Ecole Wine Production with Marcus RafanelliDuring our recent visit to Walla Walla, Winemaker Marcus Rafanelli gave us a behind-the-scenes look at L’Ecole wine production. Over the years, we have enjoyed facility tours at wineries around the world. But this is a different class altogether for small-batch winemaking. The technology at L’Ecole 41 is showcased in state-of-the-art equipment. It was so cool to see how automated data creates such quality wine. Marcus also poured his excellent 2020 Alder Ridge Vineyard Grenache Rosé. And we barrel-tasted five of his new wines created with this new technology. Read on for details about L’Ecole wine production, and Marcus’ wines.
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Lauren Ashton Cellars

Lauren Ashton CellarsWe have been fans of Lauren Ashton Cellars since late 2012, when we met winemaker and owner Kit Singh at numerous wine events and tasted his lovely wines. So we were delighted to receive a shipment of two stunning new releases — 2020 Cuvée Meline and 2015 Proprietor’s Reserve Cuvée. Most importantly, these wines are available at the Lauren Ashton Cellars Tasting Studio in Woodinville as well as online. Read on for more.

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L’Ecole 41

L'Ecole 41 historic schoolhouseWe have been fans of  L’Ecole 41 since we moved to Washington state in 1999. Consequently, L’Ecole 41 makes our Top 50 Wineries List year after year. Certainly, the winery continues to produce stellar wines every vintage. So please read on for more information about the third-oldest winery in Walla Walla, founded in 1983 in an historic schoolhouse. In addition, you’ll find out about L’Ecole’s wine flights now available to enjoy at home with virtual guided tastings.

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