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2021 Vintage Ratings

The 2021 Vintage was released to our wine club at the end of August in 2024, it was released wider to the public in January 2025. This page is actively maintained with the vintage’s rating and awards, check back regularly for updates.

 

2021 Vintage Report

The 2021 growing season was a hot one, with some record setting events and the heat dome of June.  This increased heat led to lower yields as the berries could not divide cells rapidly during cell division due to the heat, so we experienced lower yields and an increase of quality that comes from low yields.  The fall was dry and cool allowing for optimal ripening during the final stages of development.

The wines from this vintage were produced in small lot box fermentations.  Hand punch downs, light pressing.  Aged in a mix of new and neutral French oak. Typically, we age our reds in a 70/30 mix of new and neutral oak. Unique to this vintage is that we did try some extended maceration (longer fermentation) with a lot of Cab Sauv. This took place over the course of 3 months in one of our large oak fermenters. It is included in the final blend. New to this vintage is that we also have 1.5L bottles of Tribute.


 

2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon – 425 cases

Tasting Notes: A red core with a scarlet hue opens into aromas of red currant, candied apple, forest floor, and pencil lead. The palate is crisp with flavors of black currant, mint herb, fig, and marzipan, leading to a smooth, lingering finish. Balanced acidity and ripe fruit flavors promise both immediate enjoyment and graceful aging.

93 pts, Editor’s Choice – Wine Enthusiast | 93 pts – Wine Spectator

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2021 Estate Syrah – 317 cases

Tasting Notes: A light red color with a slight ruby hue sets the stage for this elegant Syrah. Aromas of green brambles, cedar, roasted red pepper, savory herbs, and butter-crisped sage leaves intertwine, reflecting the unique terroir of Washington State’s Wahluke Slope. On the palate, it offers a delicate yet robust experience, with flavors of savory herbs, black pepper, and a creamy texture that evolves into notes of black licorice, clove, and tobacco. The oak tannins provide structure, leading to a balanced finish that lingers with hints of spice and sophistication.

90 pts – Wine Enthusiast | 93 pts – Wine Spectator

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2021 Estate Malbec – 211 cases

Tasting Notes: A reddish-purple hue, inky red with crimson highlights, defines the appearance of this 2021 Malbec. Aromas of wet leather, dark plum, vanilla, pencil eraser, and tobacco greet the senses, reflecting the depth and complexity of our Wahluke Slope vineyards. On the palate, oak notes of vanilla and marshmallow mingle with flavors of ripe fruit, violets, and hints of tobacco. The wine evolves with layers of black cherry and a subtle nod to Bazooka Joe bubble gum, leading to a velvety finish that is both satisfying and lingering.

No Ratings

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2020 Estate Tribute – Red Wine – 546cases

Tasting Notes: A red brick color introduces aromas of cherry, raspberry bramble, dried rose petal, and hints of citric peel. The palate is light and delicate, with subtle notes of fresh herbs, complemented by flavors of strawberries and a touch of rhubarb. Soft yet distinct tannins enhance its food-friendly nature, leading to a smooth finish that lingers with a hint of spice.

90 pts – Wine Enthusiast 

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2020 Estate Carménère – 45 cases

Tasting Notes: Dark red with aromas of dark plums and roasted red peppers. The palate showcases flavors of raspberries, cocoa, and vanilla bean. The mouthfeel is smooth and lush. Ready to drink now but will also lay down for those who would enjoy some cellar age.

No Ratings

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2020 Estate Merlot – 98 cases 

Tasting Notes: Dark red with a bright red rim is an excellent indicator of this wine’s youth and freshness. The nose and palate have a wide range of barrel and fruit notes including toasted oak, cocoa powder, and red fruits like plum and cherry, while finishing with dark chocolate. Once decanted the wine develops a soft and lush mouthfeel with some wood tannin on and back of the palate.

91 pts – Wine Enthusiast

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