DeLille Cellars continues to innovate and to create special wines from Washington State. Now, celebrating their 20th anniversary, winemaker Chris Upchurch continues to strive for the same thing he did back in 1992 – to create special wines from the uniquely expressive terroir and dramatic weather conditions of the Pacific Northwest.
DeLille Cellars 2012 Chaleaur Estate Blanc
Grape(s): 65% Sauvignon Blanc & 35% Semillon
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of pear and key lime come together with floral and woodsy suggestions on the nose. A sip unfurls flavors of tropical fruit, lime, and honeydew with accents of rosemary, fresh bread, and minerals. A rich, mouthfilling Bordeaux-style white with a food-friendly acidity, enjoy a bottle with your favorite shellfish. 1,400 cases produced.
Rating: 90
DeLille Cellars 2011 D2 Blend
Grape(s): 56% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington
Price: 40-45
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of blackberries, blueberries, and currants meld with hints of vanilla, sweet spice, and smoky wood on the nose. Flavors of black currant, blueberry, and boysenberry unfold into notes of earth, pepper, and all-spice on the palate. A smooth red blend that’s less fruit-driven than most, try a bottle if you prefer French-style wines over American . 3,500 cases were made.
Rating: 89
Doyenne 2011 “Signature” Syrah
Grape(s): 98% Syrah & 2% Viognier
Region: Red Mountain, Washington
Price: 40-45
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of cherries, blackberries, orange spice, and earth greets the senses. Blackberry, cherry, and raspberry flavors emerge on the palate along with nuances of pepper, minerals, and lemon zest. A rich, dark Syrah with layers of flavor, connoisseurs will really appreciate this bottle. 475 cases produced.
Rating: 90
Doyenne 2011 “Aix” Blend
Grape(s): 71% Syrah & 29% Cabernet
Region: Red Mountain, Washington
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
Blackberries, cassis, and black cherries are accented by notes of pepper and smoky oak on the nose. The palate delivers flavors of blackberry, cherry, and currants that open up into hints of thyme and white pepper. A smooth, layered blend with a nice depth of flavors, enjoy it with lamb chops and special guests. 1,200 cases were made.
Rating: 91