Pacific Northwest

Saturday, March 17th
4:30 - 7:00

When it comes to domestic wines, California is certainly the most prominent state, but some of our absolute favorite US wines come from the Pacific Northwest. Washington and Oregon round out the West Coast more than just geographically.  They are amazing wine producing states, and what sets them apart from many other New World wine producing areas in their ability to straddle the stylistic fence.  When you first start learning about wine, you learn that, in general, new world wines (wines not from Europe) have more fruit flavors; While old world wines (Europe) have more earth flavors.  What I love about Washington and Oregon wines, is they tend to be new world wines made in an old world style.  I like to think about Oregon as similar to Burgundy, while Washington as similar to Bordeaux. This is based on the varietals that grow well in each state. Pinot Noir thrives in the climate of Oregon.  Washington wines tend to be more Bordeaux and Rhone varietals- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah.  Oregon and Washington both benefit from the warm stable weather of the West Coast.  It is this warm weather that results in the lively ripe fruit of New World wines.  However, their more northerly latitude gives them the benefit of cool nights to retain the refreshing acidity that Old World wines are more known for.  We've picked a selection of some current favorites, with some traditional and some more adventurous, which will showcase the beauty of wines of this region.

Pike Road Pinot Gris
Willamette Valley, Oregon, 2015

Novelty Hill Viognier
Stillwater Creek Vineyard, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2015

Amity Vineyards White Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, Oregon, 2017

Involuntary Commitment by Andrew Will
Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot
Columbia Valley, Washington, 2016

Novelty Hill Cabernet Sauvignon
Columbia Valley, Washington, 2014