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Goose Ridge Vineyards Introduces Tall Sage - I Review the Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon

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 A tribute to Arvid Monson, founder of Goose Ridge Estate Vineyards.


“Find a Tall Sage and you have found a place that will sustain superior grape vines.” Dr. Walter Clore.

The Tall Sage label is the Monson Family’s tribute to a man of great stature, the founder of Goose Ridge Estate Vineyards, Arvid Monson. A tall sage is one that develops deep tap roots. I have been a fan of Gooseridge wines for many years. Quite happy to see this new label. Both of these Washington wines are true values with great QPR. Recommended.

 Tasting Notes 

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1. Tall Sage 2014 Chardonnay Columbia Valley

Color: Straw.
Nose: Tropical, mineral, inviting.
Palate: Nutty, dry, light pear, banana in background, medium-light body, focus to middle, slight tingle, creamy, modest finish of pear, banana and hazelnut. Light in body and palate. Best for when you want a modest, light drinking wine.

After 15 Minutes: More depth on nose, think fresh rain and wet rock, pear/banana, hazelnut shell, hint of sliced bread and vanilla. Mouth feel soft, flat on the palate, ginger, pear, finish was bitter with nuts and pear, but it did linger pleasantly. Nose more appealing. Pair with something acidic - suggest ceviche, shrimp cocktail, halibut or other lightly flavored fish with squeeze of lemon juice.

After 30 Minutes: Soft wine, light body, with a tingle, focus to front, banana, pear, nutty, a little savory, pleasant finish. Modest wine with some enjoyable qualities. Best to pair with casual, lighter fare.

After One Hour: More going on, focused to middle, not as soft, nutty pear, touch of vanilla, salinity, light spice, savory finish. More my speed. Pair with a cheese plate, crusty bread, baked chicken, or grilled trout.

Day Two: Nutty pear, brioche, smooth, had a freshness that was missing day one, tacky on tongue, slightly bitter with sage on the bigger finish. More my speed. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Day Four: At least as tasty as day two, with that soft mouth-feel. More expressive.

Thoughts: This casual vintage should drink even better over the next few years. Tremendous value in this affordable bottle of Washington Chardonnay.
Recommended.

Blend: 100% Chardonnay
Closure Screw Cap.
ABV: 13.5%
Production: 921 Cases
SRP: About $10
Made by Goose Ridge Winery in tribute to Arvid Monson, founder of Gooseridge Estate Vineyards.
Sample provided by winery.


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2. Tall Sage 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley

Color: Bright, clear purple.
Nose: Fresh fruit, smoky edged, pomegranate skin, orange peel, currant, white pepper, cherry. Friendly.
Palate: Medium body, pleasant tannin along tongue, focused to middle, bright cherry, currant, hint of smoke, violets, enjoyable medium-short finish. Good match with Iberico cheese and cold cuts.

After 15 Minutes: Earthy/smoky, dark fruit, leather jacket, orange, tannin and acid balanced, milk chocolate, cherry cordial, medium body, blackberry, medium-short finish. Fresh drinking. Like.

After 30 Minutes: A bit fuller in the mouth, dark fruit with violets, cherry and chocolate into the bright finish. Fun and tasty, enjoyable with food.

After One Hour: Consistent, bit earthier, dark fruit, nice lift mid-palate, tannin and acid worked well together to deliver a balanced, medium bodied, food friendly wine. Order by the glass or the bottle.

Day Two: Dry, tacky tannin on tongue, focused to middle, dirty earthy, dried cherry with blackberry and orange peal, round with cherry, rose petals and vanilla on the medium finish. Pair with fat on day two, lamb or a nice juicy steak. Would be interesting to see how this wine develops over time.

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Thoughts: For a 2014 vintage I was surprised how well this wine drank and how well I enjoyed it. Restaurants take note - this is a food compatible wine, ready to drink at open. Perfect go to, everyday wine which you and your friends will enjoy. Drink today and over the next five years. Great QPR.
Recommended.

Blend: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah, 3% Malbec
Closure: Screw Cap
ABV: 13.5%
Production: 1,015 Cases
SRP: About $10
Made by Goose Ridge Winery in tribute to Arvid Monson, founder of Gooseridge Estate Vineyards.
Sample provided by winery.

The Monsons' have been farming the Columbia Valley for almost five decades and crafting quality wines since 1999.  Theirs is a family-owned and operated winery dedicted to limited production, handcrafted wines.

Veteran winemaker, Andrew Wilson, is a Washington wine specialist. The Tall Sage wines are a truly exceptional value. Great QPR! Thank you Andrew.

For information regarding Goose Ridge Vineyards & Winery  www.gooseridge.com

Cheers!
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