Maker's Table

Powers Merlot

Powers Winery
Columbia Valley Merlot
2007

This Washington State Merlot is deep purple, almost inky, so we expected it to be vigorous. But it's remarkably restrained, lightly scented of violets and red earth. It's a bit thin on the palate, offering only a hint of the dark back-story we expect of Merlot. Overall, this wine is well made but unremarkable, with no high or low notes. Workmanlike, good for a Thursday night.

Note: Although the Powers label is owned by the same organic producer that makes Badger Mountain, this wine is not organic. We do applaud the efforts of this grower to produce wine that's grown sustainably, without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or fertilizer. We hope the Powers line will come into the fold soon, too.

Price: $16
Drinks like: $12
Bang for the buck: 75%

Not Very "Pinot Grigic," But Not So Bad, Either

Hogue Cellars
Columbia Valley Pinot Grigio
2006

This wine is light gold, almost straw colored, and offers a nose of blackberry flowers and hay. You to expect a light, ephemeral experience, but the wine has good structure and alcohol—a lot of body for a Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio. Maybe too much body (is it glycerine?). It has light fruit and lots of minerals, with good acid, but the finish is quick, and the overall experience is a little unintegrated.

Price: $13
Drinks like: $11
Bang for the buck: 85%

A Great Friday Night Wine

Hogue Cellars
Genesis Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
2004

By Friday we're ready for something with a bit more heft than the normal stuff. This bottle fit the bill. It's earthy and grounded, but with a bright cherry nose and lots going on in the middle palate. It stood up well to sweet Italian turkey sausage braised with fennel, onions, and tomato.

We've loved their Merlot. The Cab is just as good.

Price: $16 (sale)
Drinks like: $16
Bang for the buck: 100%