made from a small family winery , while remaining expressive of what is familiar and savory about Oregon . Dark , ripe-fruited aromas of black cherry and marionberry fan out on the ripe palate to show off the complex accents of cranberry , cola , vanilla , sandalwood and even violet . The winery uses techniques like 15 percent whole-cluster pressing ( as opposed to taking all the grapes off of their stems before crushing ) and only 25 percent new oak in order to let the character of the grapes show as much as possible — a gentle temper from the winemaking . This tempering rounds off any astringent tannins while bringing out cedar and spice notes and integrates them into the black cherry / raspberry fruit flavors . This surprising wine packs wallops of flavor in a light frame and color — perfectly Pinot Noir ($ 30 - dobbesfamilyestate . com ) and it ’ s up to the challenge of smoky salmon , bacon-tinged mushrooms or even mild Thai preparations .
JB Neufeld Cabernet Sauvignon , Yakima Valley
On the heavier and headier end of the wine spectrum , Yakima Valley Cabernet Sauvignon evokes nostalgia from its enthusiasts as these vineyards number among the oldest grape fields in Washington State . There are a number of deep and age-worthy wines from Justin Neufeld but this fourvineyard blend aged in 50 percent new oak barrels speaks to the best that the Yakima Valley has made over the last 40 years . Made with 20 percent whole berries for freshness and 100-hour cold soaked for intensity of character , Justin and his team use native yeasts . They also keep the different vineyard lots in separate oak barrels until the final blending . Choose a well-marbled prime rib steak or an assertive cheese or even a cigar on a snowy evening to get the most out of this deep wine . ($ 38 - jbneufeld . com )
Where flavor helps us remember what is good about the Pacific Northwest , these wines match the season , the food and the essence of the taste memories we make . Cheers to a healthy winter !
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