Tuesday, Jul. 27, 2010

Smasne Cellars 2008 Upland Vineyard Muscat Ice Wine

Appellation: Snipes Mountain

Robert Smasne is quickly becoming one of Washington's most prolific winemakers. Based in the Yakima Valley, Smasne crafts wines for 14 different labels, including his eponymous winery. The grapes for this blend of Muscat of Alexandria and Orange Muscat come from Snipes Mountain, one of Washington's newest and smallest appellations. The resulting wine opens with aromas of yellow pears, honey, lemon zest and a hint of nuttiness, followed by rich flavors of Alberta peaches, roses, vanilla, pears, honey and tangerines. The 21% residual sugar is expertly backed with beautiful acidity. Rated "Outstanding" by Wine Press Northwest magazine.

Price: $28.

Cases produced: 48 cases.

Food matches: This is a dessert by itself, or pair with fresh fruit, blue cheeses and nuts.

Smasne Cellars, 19495 144th Ave. N.E., Ste. B-240, Woodinville, WA 98072, 509-305-1007, www.smasnecellars.com