The SJR Vineyard in the Rocks District on the Oregon side of the Walla Walla Valley.
In 2021, winemakers, like the rest of us, were poised to rebound from the most challenging year in recent memory for, well, the entire human race. But the year was hardly a panacea, nor was it an easy bounce back from 2020.
The heat was extreme at times and unparalleled even for the hot desert climate that is home to nearly all of the Columbia Valley. Furthermore, there were still lingering issues from the COVID-19 pandemic regarding staffing and safety protocols, particularly in states like Washington and Oregon.
In addition, wildfires were once again a problem, although their impacts seem to be isolated to very specific parts of Washington State. I tasted a few wines (less than 10 in a sampling of over 300 wines) impacted by the Schneider Springs Fire, which was localised to some western parts of the Columbia Valley appellation.
However, while the best wines of 2021 undoubtedly show ripeness, there is elegance, balance, and a subdued freshness in those from the top producers.
Both Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah showed brilliance with refined tannins and minerality when diligence was exercised in picking decisions.
Columbia Valley 2021 red wines of the vintage
Gård, Grand Klasse Syrah, Royal Slope 98 points
WT Vintners, Boushey Vineyard Syrah, Yakima Valley 98 points
Columbia Valley 2021 white wine of the vintage
Delmas, Viognier, Rocks District of Milton-Freewater 96 points
Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for the top Columbia Valley 2021…
Source : https://www.decanter.com.master.public.keystone-prod-eks-euw1.futureplc.engineering/premium/columbia-valley-2021-vintage-report-overview-of-washington-and-oregon-plus-top-scoring-wines-541116/
