Above all, we have been cheerleaders for WA wine since we moved here in 1999. Therefore, we celebrate WA wine every month, but even more so in August, which is Washington Wine Month, aka WAugust! With eight wine-touring regions, 19 AVAs, 1,000+ wineries, and 400+ vineyards, there is something for everyone here. To kick off the month-long festivities, Washington Wine held a Grand Tasting of 116 wineries at the picturesque Chateau Ste. Michelle. Read on for our notes about the wines we tasted and the people we talked to at this great media and trade event. In addition, find out about special wine discounts and promotions throughout WAugust.
Tag Archives: Upchurch Vineyard
Taste Red Mountain
We always said we never met a grape from Red Mountain that we didn’t like. And last week’s event, Taste Red Mountain Woodinville, underlined our opinion. Likewise, it was a wonderful way to end Washington Wine Month. We tasted some standout wine, and connected with winemakers. We’ve known some of them for years, while we met others more recently. Read on for details about Red Mountain AVA, the winemakers and the wine. Continue reading
Barbecue Reds
Ah, summer! That is to say, it’s grilling season, and time for that special pairing of Barbecue Reds. So fire up the BBQ and bring out your favorite red wines. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Syrah and Bordeaux-style blends complement ribs, juicy hamburgers or steaks. Likewise, don’t forget the reds such as Pinot Noir that pair so well with salmon, halibut or swordfish barbecued on cedar planks. For example, here are some BBQ Reds that we’ve tasted recently from Washington, Oregon and California. Further, we also enjoyed some other tasty reds from around the world.
Upchurch Vineyard
We admit it. While we have cellared bottles of Upchurch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon since its first vintage 10 years ago, we did not know about the other impressive wines in this portfolio. Therefore, we were in for a surprise when we visited the Barn tasting room on its opening day, April 1, on Red Mountain, and tried all wines in Chris Upchurch’s incredible lineup. Our friendly and talented host, winemaker Hannah Coulson, treated us to half a dozen wines priced between $20-$75. They all wowed us. For example, the Rosé is gorgeous. In addition, Upchurch produces one of the best Sauvignon Blancs we have ever tasted. And finally, the reds are magnificent. Read on for more details.