We had an important family event this past weekend in Vancouver, so we had several occasions to drink some really good reds — and all from Washington state, I’m proud to say. First, my nephew Mathew opened up a bottle of Matthews Cellars 2003 Conner Lee Vineyard Cabernet Franc Reserve, which was awarded 96 points by Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. It was heaven.

Much later, my sister poured a gem from the library collection at L’Ecole 41 — a 2001 Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, which was so amazing that it defies words.

Our contributions to our wine weekend came from Woodhouse Family Cellars — an excellent smoky and spicy 2003 Malbec — and from JM Cellars — their flagship 2005 Tre Fanciulli, which is one of our favorites (and sold out!) and their awesome blend, 2006 Bramble Bump Red.

Truth be told, we poured the JM Cellars wines back at home in Seattle last night. Nonetheless, they carried on the fine tastes of the other excellent wines that accompanied our weekend.

Cheers!