If you haven’t tasted red wines from Washington state, then why not start off 2019 by sipping something new? Offering a lot of value and quality, it should only be a matter of time before red wine from Washington takes off.

The Expedition 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape(s): 77% Cabernet, 13% Merlot, 7% Syrah, 1% Cab Franc, 1% Malbec, & 1% Tempranillo

Region: Horse Heaven Hills, Washington

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

Blackberries, black cherries, and plums mingle among expressions of earth, licorice, and tea on the nose. Plush tannis frame flavors of dark cherry, bramble berry, and black plum, along with accents of anise, tea, and minerals. Smooth but not overly fruity, it’s a good buy if you enjoy Cabs with a balance of flavors.

Rating: 89

The Pundit 2015 Syrah

Grape(s): 89% Syrah, 5% Grenache, 4% Mourvèdre, & 2% Viognier

Region: Washington, USA

Price: 20-25

Tasting Notes:

A bouquet of blackberries, cherries, herbs, and peppery bacon greets the senses. Flavors of blackberry, black cherry, and currant combine with expressions of pepper, fresh herbs, and minerals on the palate. A bold character and good structure endear this wine to hearty dishes, like a lamb stew.

Rating: 91

Intrinsic 2016 Red Blend

Grape(s): 52% Cabernet Franc,44% Malbec, 3% Cabernet & 1% Merlot

Region: Washington, USA

Price: 20-25

Tasting Notes:

Aromatics of blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries play among highlights of floral earth, dark chocolate, and tea leaves on the nose. Lush dark fruit comes forth on the palate, unfolding into nuances of cola, black tea, and chocolate. Supple and nicely layered, it’s a must try for fans of Washington wines .

Rating: 91

Wines of Substance 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape(s): 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Region: Washington, USA

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

Waves of black cherries, blueberries, and cassis combine with suggestions of mocha and earth on the nose. Concentrated flavors of blueberry, currant, and dark cherry are accented by nuances of dark chocolate and minerals on the palate. Balanced tannins and nice fruit make this a great value Cab.

Rating: 91