
Winemaker Mari Womack
Damsel Cellars. The name of the winery might conjure up the historical myth of a woman, seemingly helpless, in need of rescuing. In the case of the woman behind the winery based in Woodinville, Washington and the meaning behind the name, nothing could be further from the truth.
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2007 Woodward Canyon Merlot
We have long been fans of Woodward Canyon and in our books, it is one of the most consistently terrific wines out there. This offering of theirs is no different. Medium red in colour, the initial aromatics are black cherry, wood, pepper, and a hint of coffee. Secondary notes of plum, mint and vanilla round off this beautifully complex wine. A “cab-lover’s Merlot” this is a full-bodied wine that has a terrific structure keeping everything in balance with a ridiculously long finish. Another winner from one of our favourite Washington wineries.
Excellent+
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2011 Avennia Gravura
One of our favourite new world Bordeaux blends, we have yet to have anything from Avennia that has disappointed. Made up of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot & 8% Cabernet Franc, it had a beautiful aroma from the moment we opened it with dark fruits dominating the nose backed with cedar and earthy notes. This is a powerful, full bodied wine with a silky smooth mouthfeel and lovely long finish.
Excellent+
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Erica Orr & Les Baer
August is Washington Wine Month and we think we kicked it off in grand style with a visit to Baer Winery. Baer definitely is one the stars that shines bright amongst what has grown to over 1,000 wineries in Washington State. Though they have remained small by intention, they have received numerous 90+ point scores by the mainstream wine reviewers including being named number #6 in the Wine Spectator Top 100 for their 95 point 2008 Ursa. We met up with Les Baer and winemaker Erica Orr at their Woodinville winery to hear their story.
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We have been fans of Lauren Ashton Cellars since we first discovered the winery in Woodinville close to five years ago. They recently launched their second label, Ashton Troy Wines, as an exclusive offering for the restaurant market. The result is well priced wine that still manages to maintain the same high quality that fans of Lauren Ashton have come to expect.
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