Episode 20 | John Bigelow celebrates the past, present and future of JM Cellars
John Bigelow, JM Cellars
In this one-year anniversary episode, winemaker, John Bigelow shares his transition from tech to wine and tells us about a day in the barrel room that ended in a medical emergency. He also reveals the collaboration and details of JM Cellars new tasting room and production facility, coming soon to Maltby, Washington.
We describe our experience at JM Cellars in Woodinville, WA on our first episode. The tasting room was voted The Best Tasting Room by Seattle Magazine in 2017—it is a beautiful converted 2-story home, hung with strings of lights, with multiple tasting rooms, a fire pit, wine barrel chairs and tables, and a cavernous members-only area gated by large doors wrapped in hammered metal sheets. The collective effect is an artistic and appealing feast for the eyes. The grounds and outdoor tasting area are dog-friendly so it’s OK to bring your Châteauneuf-du-PUP.
Visit JM Cellars
Decanted discusses Decanting
We deliver the whats, hows, and whys of decanting wine. Decanting has the power to make great and/or expensive red wine more refined or an adequate wine more enjoyable. Sometimes those cheap-o bottles can come down with a case of sulfur dioxide, so aerating can be the cure.
We’ve heard the “decanting” practice of uncorking a bottle and letting it sit out on the counter while cooking, believing that will do the trick. Ok, we’ve done it too. However, it is difficult for oxygen to reach the wine inside and will have minimal effect. Listen to more tips and about the wine aeration devices we use.
Wine decanting devices we love
Menu Wine Breather Carafe
This device includes a built-in, removable aerator at the top of the neck. Simply turn the empty carafe upside down, connect it to the bottle and flip everything over to watch the aerated wine gurgle down into the carafe. And you can flip it back over and put it BACK into the bottle…which we do at our wine parties when we want to serve from the bottle.
Le Chateau Decanter
This is a lovely, traditional, wide-bottomed decanter that is constructed of 100% hand-blown lead-free crystal. The wide diameter allows the maximum amount of aeration and it’ll look sexy while doing it.
Rabbit Wine Shower-Funnel with Strainer
Rest it on a decanter opening and pour—it strains and gives quick aeration.
Host Adjustable Aerator
Adjust the dial to represent the equivalent of 0-6 hours of decanting. We haven’t done a side by side comparison on those dial settings but before we used a traditional decanter it was the fastest way to aerate. Simply place it over your glass, pour through it and via la!
Riedel Amadeo Decanters (several varieties)
These feature a handblown, artistic “swan” type shape with dual spouts—one for pouring wine into the vessel and a skinnier spout for pouring into your glass. Be prepared for the price tag.
Episode 8 | The legacy of master winemaker, Chris Upchurch
Chris Upchurch, Executive Winemaker at DeLille Cellars & Upchurch Vineyards
In Washington state, the names Chris Upchurch and DeLille Cellars rarely need an introduction. Chris is a wine-making legend and if you are new to his wines, you are in for a premium tasting experience. In this episode, he shares the stories about his part in founding the distinguished DeLille Cellars, his family’s sustainable vineyard and Upchurch label and his thoughts about the history and future of Washington’s wine industry.
Visit DeLille Cellars
Visit Upchurch Vineyard
Visit Maison DeLille Wine Lounge
Taste Washington 2018
Taste WA is the most EPIC wine event in the state and we only had time to attend the two-day Grand Tasting—VIP, of course. How did we survive with 230 wineries in attendance? Focus! Our mission was to taste wines and get to know wineries we were not as familiar with … and eat all the food. We highlight our favorites so check out the list below to explore these Washington beauties yourself.
Wines we loved at Taste WA 2018
Alexandria Nicole Cellars
2015 Jet Black Syrah
We hope Washington State gets its butt in gear and allows more wine on tap because this one was ON TAP. We also enjoy the bottled version.
Visit Alexandria Nicole Cellars
Ambassador Wines of Washington
2104 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon | 2014 Estate Syrah
Both are from Red Mountain and the Syrah is (winery notes): Blackberry, cranberry, dried blueberry, Christmas spice, and a bit of worn leather and fresh vanilla. Just a touch of smoke, game and a slight touch of maple. A lot of rich fruit on the palate, which pairs nicely with a smoky, sweet spice. Full bodied with a perfectly structured finish.
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Archeus
2015 Native Hand Syrah | 2014 Four Birds Red Bordeaux Blend | 2014 Scotsman Syrah
Visit Archeus
Barons Winery
2016 Sauvignon Blanc | 2102 Cabernet Sauvignon | 2013 Petit Barone Red Bordeaux Blend
The Sauvignon Blanc and Cab Sauv are both 90 pt wines. The Petit Barone is a great wine for the cost and we talk about it in Episode 4.
Visit Barons Winery
Barrister Winery
2014 Cabernet Franc
Barrister is located in Spokane and we still love their Cabernet Franc, as discussed in Episode 3.
Visit Barrister Winery
Basel Cellars
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
This is one of the first vintages from Basel Cellars’ new winemaker, Dirk Brink. We are digging his style so look out for more coming this Fall.
Visit Basel Cellars
Buty Winery
2016 Merlot & Cabernet Franc
This winery, owned by Nina Buty, has us pretty excited. This one is jammy and elegant.
Visit Buty Winery
Cadence
2014 Bel Canto Red Bordeaux Blend
50% Cabernet Franc 38% Merlot, 12% Petit Verdot
Drink now or cellar for up to 15 years. We still have the first vintage in the cellar!
Visit Cadence
Cave B Estate Winery
2014 Caveman Red
This was the wine that first got Dave excited about Washington wine, so it was a pleasure to try the new vintage and realize that they’re still making a sub-twenty dollar wine that is this satisfying.
Visit Cave B Estate Winery
Cooper Wine Company
2015 Carménére
This is a waiting list-kind-of-wine. It will be worth it. And while you are waiting, check out the other amazing wines.
Visit Cooper Wine Company
Cote de Ciel
2014 Sangiovese
The 2014 season saw record breaking heat and created ideal conditions for this wine. Long and elegant finish, this one.
Visit Cote de Ciel
Elephant Seven Winery
2017 Blue Mountain Vineyard Viognier | 2016 Grenache | 2014 Yellow Bird Sarah
We love these guys who get their inspiration from the Elephant 6 Music Collective. Check out the detailed tasting banter on Episode 6 Bonus.
Visit Elephant Seven
Elsom Cellars
2011 Logan Malbec | 2011 Isabella Red Blend
The Logan Malbec is incredible and that the NEWEST release is a 2011. Good things come to those who wait.
Visit Elsom Cellars
Gård Vintners
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
Get your Gård on and check out the detailed tasting banter on Episode 7 Bonus.
Visit Gard Vintners
JB Neufeld
2014 Old Goat Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
One of our favorite labels and wine of Taste WA 2018. It’s really, really good.
Visit JB Neufeld
Jones of Washington
2016 Estate Sauvignon Blanc
Beautiful Sauvignon Blanc and a consistent line-up from winemaker, Victor Palencia. Solid quality at great prices.
Visit Jones of Washington
Kiona Vineyards
2016 Red Rhone Blend | 2015 Heritage Red Bordeaux Blend
Great wine from a highly regarded vineyard. The Red Rhone Blend is amazing.
Visit Kiona Vineyards
Martedi Winery
2014 Sangiovese
Martedi’s Sangiovese is one of the very best examples of this varietal in WA, if we do say so ourselves.
Visit Martedi Wines
MERF Wines
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon
MERF wines have good distribution at chain wine and spirits stores, grocery outlets and restaurants. We’ve enjoyed the Chardonnay as well!
Visit MERF Wines
Owen Roe
2015 Chapel Block Syrah | 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon | 2015 Rose Mystica Cabernet Franc
Solid line-up and some of our favorite branding and design.
Visit Owen Roe
Palencia Wine Company
2017 Monarcha Winery Pinot Noir | 2013 El Viñador Cabernet Sauvignon
Strong line-up Mr Palencia! The El Viñador is bold with black cherry and chocolate and beautiful tannins.
Visit Palencia Wine Company
Structure Cellars
2015 “Foundation” Cabernet Franc
Solid line-up but Cab Franc was a stand out. Complex flavors, bold and smooth tannins.
Visit Structure Cellars
Upchurch Vineyard
2015 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Stand out wine of the Taste WA 2018. (93-95 points) Wines are member’s only so if you don’t currently have a membership or looking to add another, this would be an incredible one to choose.
Visit Upchurch Vineyard
Upsidedown Wine
2017 Rose of Nebbiolo | 2014 Estate Red Rhone Blend | 2015 Estate Red Bordeaux Blend
We’re really excited about Upsidedown as one of the wineries to watch for 2018. Buy their wine and giveback on every bottle sold!
Visit Upsidedown Wine
Episode 2 | Wendy Higgins shares the dream of Washington’s newest wine concept hotel
Episode 2 | Wendy Higgins shares the dream of Washington’s new wine concept hotel
Episode 18 | For the Love of Port
Roy Hersh
Founder—For the Love of Port | Port and Madiera Brotherhood
Roy Hersh is a professional wine judge, writer and educator who generously shares his knowledge and passion for Port and Madeira. Yearly, he conducts unparalleled tours to Portugal where guests spend time with winemakers, taste exceptional Port, stroll through vineyards stomp on grapes and dine at first-rate restaurants.
On this episode, Roy Hersh recounts when his love of Port began and describes the kinds of memorable experiences his tour groups typically encounter. He also opens up about being the only person outside of the Portuguese wine industry who has been inducted into both the Port and Madeira Brotherhoods.
Learn more about Port wine at, For the Love of Port: Collective Port Wisdom
For the Love of Port
Port Harvest Tour 1, 2018
Our whirlwind tour took us through Porto, Gaia and the heart of the Douro Valley wine country. It’s an “eduvacation” that we highly recommend to anyone serious about learning about Port and table wine. Where else can you taste a Port from 1827 from the family home of multi-generation winemakers? Where else can you walk through one of the top 10 vineyards in the world or tread on grapes in the traditional way?
Join the next Ultimate Portugal Wine Experience
For more information or reservations, email: roy@fortheloveofport.com
We learned a stunning amount of information in 10 days and we are excited to share it. We break down the different types of Port so you can feel more confident when choosing a bottle to open with friends or age in the cellar. Port 101 is in session!
*See below for the Ports we liked, that are readily available in the U.S.
Recommended Ports
Sandeman
10, 20, 30 and 40-year ports readily available in the U.S., all are good so choose the one that best serves your price range. If you’re feeling a little spendy, the 2000 vintage classic blend is excellent.
Visit Sandeman
Shop at Total Wine
Shop at Wine.com
Quinta do Noval
10 and 20-year tawny, Noval Black, the 2012 LBV, and the powerhouse 2015 Quinta Vintage Port.
Visit Quinta do Noval
Shop at Total Wine
Shop at Esquin Wine & Spirits
Fonseca
10 and 20-year tawny, the 2000 vintage port, the 2008 vintage port even though it is still pretty young and features gripping tannins, and the best of the best: the 1985 vintage port.
Visit Fonseca
Shop at Esquin Wine & Spirits
Kopke
There is a wide range of tawny, vintage and colheita port to explore here.
Shop at Esquin Wine & Spirits
Episode 15 BONUS | Auction of Washington Wines
On a mission to make an impact
The Auction of Washington Wines is a nonprofit wine event that has been around for 31 years. This year’s Auction events raised over 4 million that benefits the WSU Wine Sciences Center for research and Seattle Children’s. Their focus is on elevating the awareness of Washington State wines through a series of events over a weekend every August.
Dave and Sandi were invited to attend the Private Barrel Auction held at Novelty Hill-Januik Winery and taste wines from 31 premier wineries. The barrels were auctioned off in a battle between collectors, restauranteurs and retailers vying to be the exclusive purveyor of what will be, one-of-a-kind bottles.
Your hosts then participated in the public Winemaker Picnic and Barrel Auction at Chateau Ste Michelle. A plethora of small bites and more wine than you can shake a stick was the perfect accompaniment to the auction excitement. Picnic attendees could meet winemakers, bid in the silent auction lots and a frenzied barrel auction.
Learn about Auction of Washington Wines
Episode 17 | At the heart of Upsidedown Wine
Seth and Audrey Kitzke, Upsidedown Wine | Kitzke Family Vineyards
A young duo is carving out vineyards and spectacularly crafted wines from Candy Mountain. If you haven’t heard of Candy Mountain, it’s not the place where Halloween sweets are churned out. This unique terroir in Richland, WA is the birthplace for the Seth and Audrey Kitzke’s family vines and will soon be granted AVA status.
In this episode, Seth opens up about his dream of being a professional snowboarder and his call to become a winemaker. He and his wife Audrey talk about the history of their label, Upsidedown Wine, giving back, their tasting room in Hood River, OR, and how they’ve built an engaging social media presence.
Watch Seth and Audrey’s Instagram story at @USdoingWine
Join the Movement and Drink Upsidedown
Upsidedown Wine gives back 20% of their net proceeds with every bottle sold. That’s generous for a boutique winery, but Seth and Audrey’s giving spirit is at the heart of this passion project. Become a member, and they are able to give back double. Sounds like a good deal—you get great wine from an emerging, talented winemaker and you can support organizations that fight human trafficking, help youth fight cancer, and animal rescue.
Join and Drink Upsidedown
2018 Wine Bloggers Conference, Walla Walla, WA
The Wine Bloggers Conference gathered citizen bloggers, industry writers, new media innovators, and wine industry members and has been going strong for 11 years. This year’s event was held at the iconic, Marcus Whitman Hotel and Conference Center located in Walla Walla’s historic downtown. Attendees dove deep into what makes the Walla Walla AVA one of the most desired growing areas in the world, dined with winemakers and chose from numerous learning sessions. In this packed episode, we share our experiences, tips for pairing food with bubbly, and recommendations of wines to try.*
*See below for the wines we loved at the Wine Bloggers Conference
Wines we loved from the 2018 Wine Bloggers Conference
Cà Maiol Lugana DOC ITALY
100% Trebbiano | Carefully selected grapes from the oldest vines of the Molino vineyard. The crushed grapes are then held in stainless steel tanks at a low temperature, a process called cryomaceration, to develop its flavor.
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2016 Bodegas As Laxas, Rias Baixas SPAIN
100% Albariño | Clear straw yellow color with green nuances. Fruity and floral aromas of apple, stone fruits, and apricot.
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Paco & Lola Albariño, SPAIN
Crisp with peach and nectarine flavors.
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2010 Gloria Ferrer Anniversary Cuvee
Blend | Rich and creamy with crème brûlée and stone fruit with a touch of ginger.
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2010 Bodegas LAN Gran Reserva, SPAIN
100% Tempranillo | Dark fruit, leather, spearmint with medium tannins that lead to a medium finish.
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2016 Bodegas LAN Edicion Limitada, SPAIN
100% Tempranillo | Black cherry, leather, rich earth, deep and satisfying with medium tannins and a long finish. (Could not find the 2016 readily available online)
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Gard Cellars 2015 Grand Klasse Reserve Roussanne
Inspired by the French Grand Cru wine, this is full-bodied and complex with a beautiful use of oak.
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L’Ecole No. 41 2017 Semillon
Flavors of apple and lemon and wonderfully balanced.
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Peter Yealands 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NEW ZEALAND
Tropical fruit, crisp minerality
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