Washington State Wines
You should check out the wines coming out of Washington State. The quality is simply amazing and prices are lower than what we see coming from California.
There have been acclaimed wineries producing in Washington for decades. The problem is they are in the shadow of California producers.
Washington state is the second largest producer of wines in the United States.
Two of their most popular regions are the Walla Walla Valley and Columbia Valley. Cabernet Sauvingon, Syrah, Merlot, Chardonnay and Riesling dominate the output. There are also interesting red blends to explore.
Though two of the states largest producers, Columbia Crest and Chateau Ste. Michelle, focus on value oriented wines, there are plenty of world class wines coming out of the state.
The best Cabernets and Syrahs rival the best wines in Napa Valley but are much cheaper. Some of my personal favorites are from Force Majuere, Andrew Will Cellars and Quileda Creek.
Exploring wines is a fun, wonderful way to learn. Try it with the wines of Washington and please let me know what you discover.