Wine Reviews

93

Portlandia 2021 ‘Big Believer’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, WA ($22)

With small portions of Syrah, Cab Franc, and Merlot, it serves up coffee-coated cherries. Juicy and ripe black currant, with spiced oak gleaming alongside silky tannins. Over-delivers on the price.

91

Portlandia 2022 Pinot Noir, Oregon ($17)

Grapes are sourced primarily from the Willamette Valley, with 14% Rogue Valley and 14% Umpqua Valley. Roasted coffee, tobacco, and black cherry go deep. Amped by a keen acidity, crushed violets and spiced cedar carry through to the finish.

90

Portlandia 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley, WA ($17)

Fermented in 100% stainless steel, high-toned acidity reacts to notes of grapefruit zest, cut grass, and thyme. Lime sorbet enters at mid-point, augmented by garden herbs. A stony finish adds a salty touch to Anjo pears and white flowers.

95

Post & Beam 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($55)

Richly appointed, with dark blue and purple fruit and a plush mouthfeel. Notes of plum liqueur and fresh roasted coffee grace the palate. Dark chocolate and anise entwine in the wine’s well-defined structure and satin-lined tannins. Spiced red tea and sandalwood engage with chocolate notes on the finish.

93

Post & Beam 2023 Chardonnay, Carneros ($40)

Aromas of rich Golden apple and vanilla bean lead to toasty oak, lemon zest, and salty minerality. Vibrant acidity is a focal point, along with a refreshingly bright and clean finish.

94

Quilt 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($55)

Structured like a modern skyscraper, this bold red stands tall with concentrated notes of espresso, bittersweet dark chocolate, and blackberry. Its plush palate feel lingers through a lengthy finish.

92

Quilt 2022 Fabric of the Land Red Wine, Napa Valley ($35)

Vibrant pomegranate, plum, and mulberry take center stage on a frame of bramble. Juicy, with high-toned acidity, it refreshes the palate and finishes with a pop of white pepper and roasted mocha-coffee.

91

Ryder Estate, 2022 Chardonnay, California ($15)

The fruit behind this wine was clearly picked at the right time, resulting in a medium-bodied Chardonnay with fine balance between fruit and acidity. Getting these fundamentals right is the key to the wine’s success, but it also shows faint but attractive oak accents that make this more than just a “solid” everyday wine. Very skillfully wrought.