DeLille Cellars continues to innovate and to produce special wines from Washington State. Winemaker Chris Upchurch continues to follow the same adage he did when the winery opened back in 1992 – create special wines from the uniquely expressive terroir and dramatic. And based on what we tasted, he should never change his philosophy.
DeLille Cellars 2013 “Chaleur Estate” Blanc
Grape(s): 65% Sauvignon Blanc & 35% Semillon
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
Fragrances of apple, lemon, and tropical fruit mingle with nuances of vanilla, fresh bread, and herbs on the nose. Flavors of green apple and sweet lemon wrap around suggestions of honey, herbs, and butter on the palate. A lush, mouth-filling white with a fresh acidity, enjoy a bottle with baked sole in a brown butter sauce.
Rating: 91
DeLille Cellars 2012 “D2” Blend
Grape(s): 50% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, & 2% Petit Verdot
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington
Price: 40-45
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of blackberries, cherries, and cassis are accented by hints of dark chocolate, toasty oak, and thyme on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of currant, blackberry, and cherry that interweave with suggestions of bitter-sweet chocolate, smoky oak, and dusty earth. Dark fruit and rich tannins make this an ideal wine to enjoy with your favorite red meat.
Rating: 92
Doyenne 2012 “AIX” Blend
Grape(s): 40% Cabernet Sauvignon & 60% Syrah
Region: Red Mountain, Washington
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of bramble fruits and cherries meld with notes of peppercorns and cedar on the nose. A sip delivers flavors of blackberry, cherry, and boysenberry that open up into nuances of pepper, herbs, and mocha. A bright, rich wine with supple tannins, fans peppery reds will enjoy this bottle.
Rating: 90