Exploring Chateau Ste. Michelle with Michael McNeill

Washington State’s wine history, while not as extensive as California’s, boasts a vibrant present. In this blog post, we dive into Chateau Ste. Michelle, one of the region’s pioneering wineries, with the help of Master Sommelier and Director of Fine Wine, Michael McNeill.

The Birth of a Wine Country

As Michael explains, Washington’s wine story truly begins in the early 1970s. Chateau Ste. Michelle, established in 1972, was among the first 11 wineries to open its doors. Interestingly, the ideal growing conditions lie east of the Cascade Mountains, a stark contrast to the rainy climate west of Seattle. These cool nights and hot days, coupled with a lack of water, create a perfect environment for grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Chateau Ste. Michelle: A Leader in Quality and Diversity

Today, Chateau Ste. Michelle remains a major player in Washington’s wine scene. They are renowned for their well-priced Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots, but their expertise extends beyond red wines.

A Passion for Riesling

Washington State also excels in Riesling, a grape variety traditionally associated with Germany. Chateau Ste. Michelle played a pivotal role in this success. In 1972, they planted the Johannesburg Riesling clone, and decades later, collaborated with renowned Mosel winemaker Ernst Loosen to create exceptional Riesling cuvees.

A Tale of Two Rieslings: East Coast vs. West Coast

According to Michael, these Washington Rieslings offer a unique style compared to their East Coast counterparts. While New York Rieslings tend to be more European in style, Washington’s offerings are known for their aromatic and delicious character. They pair beautifully with Asian-inspired dishes, where the touch of sweetness in the wine balances the spice.

Exploring Chateau Ste. Michelle’s Wines

Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling

Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling

  • Region: Columbia Valley, WA
  • Tasting Notes: White peach, apricot, pear, and zesty grapefruit
  • Style: Light-bodied and versatile
  • Pairing Suggestions: Chicken, pork, soft cheese

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Region: Columbia Valley, WA
  • Blend: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Syrah, 5% Malbec, 7% other red varieties
  • Aging: 24 months in a mix of new and neutral oak barrels and stainless steel tanks
  • Tasting Notes: Rich red fruit flavors with a complex and approachable structure
  • Pairing Suggestions: Beef, game, or burgers

Chateau Ste. Michelle is a testament to Washington State’s flourishing wine industry. From their delicious Cabernet Sauvignons to their aromatic Rieslings, they offer a diverse range of wines that are perfect for any occasion. As Michael highlights, Washington’s unique climate and dedication to quality have positioned it as a leading producer of exceptional wines.

Your Guide to Festive Wines

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to stock up on wines that will elevate your celebrations. From sparkling sips to bold reds, we’ve curated a selection of wines that will pair perfectly with your favorite festive dishes.

Sparkling: Mumm Napa Brut Prestige

Mumm Napa

Kick off your holiday celebrations with a bottle of Mumm Napa Brut Prestige. This award-winning sparkling wine showcases the best of Napa Valley’s sparkling winemaking. With its bright citrus, red apple, and creamy vanilla aromas, it’s a versatile and celebratory choice.

Holiday Ideas:

  • Aperitif: Serve chilled as a welcome drink for guests.
  • Dinner Party: Pair with light appetizers, seafood, or poultry dishes.
  • Toast: Use for a celebratory toast during holiday gatherings.

 

Red: Highlands 41 Pinot Noir

Red: Highlands 41 Pinot Noir

Experience the adventure of Monterey County with Highlands 41 Pinot Noir. This wine showcases the region’s unique terroir, with aromas of red fruits and spice and a palate of black cherry and spice.

Holiday ideas:

  • Main Course: Pair with roasted turkey, beef tenderloin, or lamb.
  • Cheese Course: Serve with a selection of aged cheeses for a delicious dessert.
  • Cozy Night In: Enjoy a glass by the fireplace with a good book.

 

Rosé: Stoller Pinot Noir Rosé

Stoller

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Stoller Pinot Noir Rosé. This fresh and juicy rosé is perfect for any gathering or light holiday meals.

Holiday Ideas:

  • Appetizer: Pair with grilled salmon or shrimp skewers.
  • Side Dish: Serve with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
  • Dessert: Enjoy with a slice of fruit tart or a light cake.

 

White: Flowers Chardonnay

Flowers

Experience the elegance of Flowers Chardonnay. This coastal wine offers delicate aromas of white flower and minerality, with hints of kaffir lime leaf and fresh herbs.

Holiday Ideas:

  • Main Course: Pair with seafood, poultry, or light vegetarian dishes.
  • Cheese Course: Serve with a selection of creamy cheeses.
  • Dessert: Enjoy with a slice of apple pie or a crème brûlée.

 

Discover the Pioneering Spirit of Highlands 41

Imagine a journey where every sip of wine transports you to a new place, introduces you to new friends, and invites you to try something delightfully different. That’s the magic of Highlands 41. Proudly rooted in the heart of Paso Robles, each bottle of Highlands 41 embodies the pioneering spirit that founded this remarkable region.

Highlands 41 isn’t just a wine; it’s a story. Named after the historic Highway 41 and the rugged Creston Highlands, this wine captures the essence of freedom and adventure. Millions of years ago, the vineyards were submerged under an ancient sea. Today, the Creston Highlands, sitting over 1,300 feet above sea level, provide limestone-rich soils that create ideal conditions for our vineyards. The result? Wines that are rich in flavor and history.

Sip Sustainably

Highlands 41 is committed to protecting our planet for future generations. Their estate vineyards and winery are Certified Sustainable by CSWA, utilizing environmentally friendly farming practices, solar panels, and wastewater treatment and reclamation. So, when you enjoy a glass of Highlands 41, you’re also supporting a sustainable future.

Highlands 41 Chardonnay

A Taste of Paso Robles with Its 4 Varietals 

Highlands 41 is a true child of Paso Robles, and each wine reflects the region’s unique character and flavors.

Cabernet Sauvignon: This wine is a pure expression of the land and grape, transporting you straight to Paso Robles. With notes of dark fruit and a long finish, it’s perfect for those who appreciate depth and complexity.

Red Blend: The Black Granite Red Blend is a snapshot of Paso Robles, offering a bold mix of berries and a smooth finish. It’s a blend that captures the essence of the region in every sip.

Chardonnay: Journey to Monterey County with Highlands 41 Chardonnay. Experience notes of tropical fruit and a crisp finish that embody the land and the grape perfectly.

Pinot Noir: Discover the forces of nature in Highlands 41 Pinot Noir. Abundant sunlight, cooling fog, ocean breezes, and well-drained soils shape this wine, bringing you scents of red fruits and spice, followed by a palate of black cherry and spice with a smooth finish.

Highlands 41 Cabernet

Join the Adventure

Whether you’re a supplier looking to stock your shelves, a retailer aiming to delight your customers, or a consumer ready to explore new flavors, Highlands 41 has something special for you. This September, let us take you on a journey with Highlands 41 wines. Each bottle is an invitation to discover the pioneering spirit of Paso Robles and the amazing flavors waiting to be savored.

Experience Exceptional Quality at an Affordable Price with Harken Chardonnay

We’re excited to bring you the best wines, and this August, we’re thrilled to spotlight one standout star: Harken Chardonnay.

Buttery Bliss Without Breaking the Bank

Remember those rich, oaked Chardonnays California was famous for? We sure do! But nowadays, finding a bottle like that can feel like searching for treasure. Enter Harken! Founded by Jeff O’Neill, Harken is dedicated to reviving that classic California Chardonnay experience without the hefty price tag.

The Secret’s in the Barrel (and the Sourcing)

Jeff O’Neill knew there were no shortcuts to achieving that amazing oaky flavor and buttery mouthfeel. Traditional methods would have made the price skyrocket. So, he got creative! Harken sources grapes from promising AVAs in California like Paso Robles, Monterey, and Clarksburg to deliver top quality at a fantastic price. And here’s the magic touch: the Harken Fusion Barrel. Made of 50% French and 50% American oak, it gives the Chardonnay the perfect blend of flavors without needing to mix multiple barrels.

From Vine to Glass: The Harken Journey

  • Grapes: Harken uses 100% Chardonnay grapes, sustainably grown under the California sun.
  • Barrel Fermentation: Harken undergoes both primary and malolactic fermentation in their special Fusion Barrels, creating that signature rich texture and buttery notes.
  • Barrel Aging: Over 8 months, the Chardonnay rests peacefully in the barrels, soaking up the oak’s flavors and developing its complex profile.
  • Hand-Stirring: Every two weeks, their team gives the barrels a little love with hand-stirring, ensuring that luxurious texture we all love.

Bottling Magic: After all that care and attention, Adam Popp himself tastes each barrel and selects the very best for bottling.

Harken Chardonnay

A Symphony of Flavor

Harken is a Chardonnay for all your senses. Imagine notes of crème brûlée and toasted bread dancing on your tongue, with hints of Bosc pear and a touch of oaky spice. A refreshing burst of acidity keeps everything balanced, making this wine a true crowd-pleaser.

Chilled Perfection

For the best experience, serve Harken nice and cold. Pop it in the fridge for a few hours before you open it, or give it a quick ice bath for 10 minutes.

Food Pairings are Endless Possibilities

Harken’s rich flavor profile makes it a versatile pairing partner. It can stand up to creamy dishes or complement a simple pasta dish. Get creative and let us know what you love to pair it with.