Editor’s note: Judges for the 2022 North Central Washington White wine Awards competition awarded Double Gold Medal status to both of these white wines.2018 Syrah, Columbia Valley, $32 (96 cases) 94 points (Best of Class)
Judges’ notes: Last fall, Napa Valley wine maker Chris Daniel Stewart and his parents in Quincy saw their 2017 Syrah cap the 2021 wine competitors calendar with a Double Platinum at the 22nd yearly Platinum Awards. Their latest release of Syrah is incredibly reminiscent, and it receives the 2022 Platinum with this best-of-class award in Wenatchee. There’s a consistent stream of black fruit, lavender, vanilla, baking spices and toast. The midpalate is complete and abundant, similar to blackberry jam, as smooth tannins, light oak notes and black cherry juice make for a tasty surface. It’s among the 4 red wines by Chris Daniel to attain a gold medal or better this year in the Wenatchee judging.Call the winery or visit its site for present tasting space hours.2743 Highway 283 N., Quincy 2021 Belle Tavel
Rosé, Lake Chelan
,$30 (274 cases)94 points Judges’notes: State-of-the-art refugee Kevin Brown explains the inspiration
for each red wine he makes.(Much of those red wines are produced from grapes he grows.)This rosé of Grenache advises him of a late-night meal while exploring southern Rhône with his spouse Holly, who recommends serving this with a summertime salad including strawberries and pecans. It’s a wonderful expression featuring cherry blossoms, white peach, plump raspberries and sweet watermelon. Thanks to the juicy surface, it’s ripe, fruity and clean.For present tasting space hours call the winery or visit its site.635 S. Lakeshore Road, Chelan