2007 McKINLEY SPRINGS BOMBING RANGE RED

After nearly an 8 month absence, the new vintage of this muscular soldier has been released and tasting better than ever. It's arsenal consists of a blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot which targets dark cherry and plum fruit. Once detonated on the palate, big coffee, leather, black licorice and fresh herbs makes one surrender to it's Washington State base designation. The name is a tribute to the fighter pilots who once used this vineyard site as a bombing range test facility during World War II.

2007 FORCHINI OLD VINE ZINFANDEL

It's been years since I tasted this old friend and quite happy with the updated reunion. Culled from 90 year old vines in the Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County, the striking deep ruby color and fragrant aroma shows thorny dark berries with black pepper and rich spice notes. Co-fermented with a bit of carignane, the Forchini winery is on a major hot streak with over 10 straight years of awards and high acclaim for their flagship wine. Hard to find a better zinfandel with as high a rating of 94 points from the wine press for the money.

2011 BEACH HOUSE WHITE

Picture yourself perched on a lounge chair, staring out over the ocean, the lake or a river, and enjoying the last days of Summer with a refreshing sipper. This blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon may be the perfect mood setter. It's fresh and lively tangerine, lemongrass, lime and kiwi fruit tastes clean and grassy. Suprising how dry this wine shows with that kiss of Semillon which usually adds a bit of fruity to sweet characteristics. For fans of unoaked elegance, this South African treasure would be welcome to stick around all year to remind us of Summer's to come.

2009 ROOK

Another classic from the portfolio of Owen Roe, who turns liquid into gold with fruit from vineyards sites in both Washington and Oregon. Consisting of a blend of 45% Merlot, 40% Syrah and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, it offers black cherry, cassis, and plum fruits which integrate elegantly with mocca, chocolate, Asian spice and a whiff of smokiness throughout a long finish. Like the pictured bird on it's namesake label, you'll have a lot to crow about when you sample and share this affordable gem.