The Vigneview
The first dry Riesling I ever tasted was from the Columbia Valley and the crisp, dry loveliness of that wine made a positive impression on me. Riesling is such a versatile grape; representing a wide spectrum of wine styles from dry to lusciously sweet. I highly recommend tasting several different styles, as well as from different countries. You’ll be amazed by what this grape can do!
As I’m living in London, it’s often easier to find a German, Alsatian or even Australian Riesling. However, as someone who often chooses to take the road less travelled, I was determined to find the perfect Columbia Valley Riesling. So, when I found a dry Riesling from Chateau Ste Michelle, I was extremely pleased!
I eagerly opened the bottle with high hopes. Thankfully, this wine did not disappoint. A pale lemon colour exuding fresh aromas of orchard blossoms, lemon peel and crisp green apples greeted my nose. Bright, long-lasting acidity accompanied by flavours of green orchard fruit, citrus and tongue tingling minerality awakened my palate. This is a beautiful wine. I highly recommend buying a bottle.
Where to buy
Food Pairing
There’s no better pairing than a Columbia Valley Riesling with salmon. In fact, I grew up in this area and fondly remember spotting Sockeye and Chinook salmon swimming up the mighty Columbia River to spawn. There’s something magical and awe inspiring about the Columbia River Gorge. If you ever get the chance to visit…GO! Meanwhile, enjoy this wine with my Icelandic style baked salmon recipe.
Cheers! x
Producer: Chateau Ste Michelle
Country: USA
Region: Columbia Valley
Vintage: 2018
Grapes: Riesling
Closure: Cork
Style: Still
Colour: Pale Lemon
Sweetness: Dry
Acidity: High
Alcohol: 11.5%
Body: Light-bodied
Aromas/Flavours: Apple blossom, green orchard fruit, citrus peel, minerality
Drinking Window: 2-3 years