We’ve said this before, and we’re sure we will say it again. Talented winemaker Kit Singh at Lauren Ashton Cellars consistently crafts high-quality Washington state wine. We have enjoyed Kit’s impressive lineup from the day he and his wife Riinu opened their Woodinville winery ten years ago. This tradition continues in two October releases, which we were fortunate enough to sample last week, courtesy of the winery: 2017 Chenin Blanc and 2014 Proprietor’s Cuvée. They both are excellent. Here are the details.
Lauren Ashton Cellars 2017 Chenin Blanc ($25)
First, we had never tasted this seductive white wine before. But we will again. Pretty aromatics of stone fruit, tropical fruit and apple are mirrored in the textured flavors. As a result, layers of complexity coat the palate and left us saying, “mmmmm.” Seriously, we did. We paired it with cedar-plank barbecued Copper River salmon, and it was simply delicious. We highly recommend this wine, and know we will be purchasing more to pair with seafood again. It also would go well with triple-cream brie cheese. Drink now and over the next ten years.
Lauren Ashton Cellars 2014 Proprietor’s Cuvée ($65)
We have loved every vintage of this lovely Bordeaux-styled blend, and the potential for this October release exceeds previous years. This is likely because Kit added our favorite Cabernet Franc to this vintage. This is an elegant, complex and impressive blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 17% Merlot and 8% Petit Verdot. Luscious dark fruit flavors and hints of spice and flint follow a nose of black cherries, plum and cocoa. Structured and balanced, this plush Cuvée will pair with grilled meats, pork or lamb dishes. We paired it with a rich beef dip, but wish we had let the wine age for awhile since it is so young. But indeed, it will be simply beautiful with some age.
Summary
The bottom line: Kit wows fans with his stellar releases year after year, and we predict that he is set to do the same with these two wines.
We highly recommend stopping by Lauren Ashton Cellars Tasting Studio in the Hollywood District of Woodinville, or finding out more at their website.
You can also read more about the Lauren Ashton story in our 2014 blog post.
Cheers!
Margot and Dave