Okay because I mentioned a sparkling rose in the middle of winter, I am going to pick a traditional red for July.
Sunday I went to Woodinville for a little wine tasting. There are dozens of wineries in Woodinville now and it seems like new places pop up all the time.
One of my favorites is Matthews. They now have a tasting room in the warehouse district along with the one on 140th. I am going to recommend the Claret as it's one of their most affordable and very drinkable. They have some really nice wines but the prices points climb a bit. The Claret is $25. I did try the "Red Wine" blend it was smooth and lovely but a bit much ($44) for a everyday wine-at least for me. They had a cute promotion: add a post to Facebook or Twitter and get your testing fee back.
Other wineries visited this trip.
Efeste*-I had their wine once before when I joined the WOW wine club. They have a very nice space (former Januik space). I actually liked their Evergreen Riesling, it was great for a hot day and not too sweet. The Big Poppa, named for the owner Danial is also nice. Overall good people and wine and worth a 2nd visit.
Alexandria Nicole. I overall like their wines, but this trip we wandered back into the members only area unknowingly and got a snotty reaction. We did not get kicked out but it was a bit silly to even comment as there were only a few people there. This winery appears to be moving away from the great feel of small wineries and nice people to a more commercial feel. I don't think I need to visit them again and if I want their wine I'll get some at the store. We should not have a goal of being the next Napa.
Baer*. Another of the wines I like. They had a new white-Shard. It was nice but I am really a fan of their Ursa. We were there at the end of the day and lucky enough to get to try a new batch "hot" off the press. This is the kind of tasting room I rather see. Not fancy and exclusive but real people who like making wine.
Smasne Cellers. This tasting room had 4 different labels by the same wine maker: Smasne. Farmer Boy, Gard Vintners, Smasne Cellers and AlmaTerra. Lots of wines to taste. The AlmaTerra was the best in my opinion.
Edmonds. Nice doggy. Okay by the time I went here I was really all done! I am going to have to work on my spitting if I want to make it past say 4 or 5 wineries.
*Top Recommendations.
