As a wine-growing region, Red Mountain was ‘discovered’ in 1972 but the essentials such as roads, power, and water did not make their appearance until 1975, and after much effort, the first 10 acres of vineyards were planted by John Williams and Jim Holmes.
Fast forward to 1980 when the first winery was bonded- Kiona Winery rose from the dust. Several other wineries followed with AVA status being achieved in 2001.
Today, 54 vineyards covering 2,300 acres produce some of the best wine out of the Northeast, and some might argue, the best.
Red Mountain is located east of the Cascades, the volcanic mountain range that divides the state, with totally opposite growing conditions. Annual rainfall is only 5 inches, compared to the western side- think of Seattle’s reputation for raining all the time. This lack of rain severely stresses the vines, a necessary condition for producing world-class wines.
Despite producing some exceptional wines, the AVA is still largely unknown.
Chasing Rain Cabernet 2019
No need for an explanation of what inspired the name. This is an excellent wine that defines the term overdeliver. This is predominately Cabernet- 95% with a splash of Malbec and Petit Verdot and barrel aged for 19 months before release.
The nose is an intoxicating blend of blackberries, cassis, chocolate, and wildflowers.
The palate delivers hefty quantities of blackberries, cassis, and dark cherries with secondary notes of chocolate, vanilla, and herbs with leather and oak rounding things out. The palate is smooth and concise with a surprising richness. Balance is evident with nice depth and complexity and a long finish to savor, whilst considering another glass.
Needs some decanting time- an hour or two should do it, but you will be rewarded.
I can see this improving over the next 6 to 8 years- 2030 and beyond.
Food pairings should include steak, lamb chops, burgers on the grill, beef pasta, or a Pepperoni Pizza for a casual evening at home.
Another great Winery located in Red Mountain is …
Klipsun Vineyard Red Blend 2020
If you are familiar with Red Mountain, one whiff of the nose will tell you this is Red Mountain wine- they all have that unique, distinct collaboration of fruit plus, not unlike ‘Rutherford Dirt’ so evident in wines from the Napa AVA.
The aromas are both enticing and impressive right out of the gate. Complex aromas of cranberries, blueberries, black currants, and dark cherries entice you to sip.
The palate is smooth and inviting with great balance, depth, and complexity on full display. Intertwined layers of Cranberries, blueberries, and cherries with blackberries, blackcurrant, cooking herbs, oak, and tobacco are mentioned on the backend. Tannins are evident with a grippy finish. An absolute delight to drink. 1 – 2 hours of decant time is recommended.
Cellar out to 2035 with your patience rewarded.
Pairings should include any of your favorite meat dishes. Will do well with Prime Rib, Fillet Mignon, NY Strips, Pepperoni Pizza, as well as Chicken dishes with a tomato-based sauce.
ALSO, keep an eye out for other articles and reviews in the future of Wineries located in Red Mountain. These might just be included. Hedges Family Estate, Kiona Vineyards, and Col Solare Winery. This is definitely not an AVA to overlook.
Vine to Table 