I discovered Lauren Ashton Cellars while living in Washington state. My husband, Joe, attended the Northwest Wine Academy and was in a class with Riinu Rammal who co-owns Lauren Ashton Cellars with her husband, Kit Singh. A few weeks later, Joe and I topped off a date day with a visit to Lauren Ashton‘s tasting room in the Hollywood District of Woodinville where we became hooked on these fantastic wines. Lauren Ashton focuses on traditional French style wines that reflect Washington terroir. They have just released two pretty fabulous wines that I am delighted to share with you:
A Bordeaux style white wine made up of 55% Semillon and 45% Sauvignon Blanc fermented like a white wine should, low and slow, in stainless steel tanks and neutral barrels. Cuvée Méline shows a purposeful balance between high acidity and lushness with green apple, grapefruit, peach and green melon followed by an intriguing suggestion of fresh bread. I paired this wine with sweet potato gnocchi and it was a cohesive, delicious duo.
Also Bordeaux inspired, from the Right Bank with a Merlot predominance, is Cuvée Arlette . A blend of 59% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and a token of Malbec and Petit Verdot. Cuvée Arlette is a dignified wine with aromas of dark fruits, spices and earthy minerals. On the palate, flavors of black raspberry, black currant and black cherry with a sway to perfectly roasted coffee beans, warm baking spices and clay pot. The finish lingers on the palate providing an elegant, pleasing culmination.
Bonus Review ~ Chenin Blanc
For the first time ever, Lauren Ashton has released a Chenin Blanc. The wine is whole cluster pressed resulting in a high quality, refreshing wine with crisp acidity. The aroma is fruity with a hint of mango and flavors of ripe Bartlett pear, yellow apple, and pineapple with undertones of honey and chalk. I tasted this little lovely in the morning before eating, which I admit, is something I do often while my palate is most attentive. It would pair well with Asian food or simple chicken and fish dishes.
Whether you are looking to stock a cellar, enjoy a bottle or two in the next few months, or polish off immediately, these are excellent wines worth considering. Lauren Ashton distributes to many states as well as ships to any state without restrictions. To order Lauren Ashton wines, click here.
As wineries occasionally do, Lauren Ashton sent the above wines to me. I only promote wines I thoroughly enjoy since my name is essentially on them at the point of promotion. As I state in my bio, "I am here to inspire you to treat yourself to great wine experiences as often as you possibly can!" I recommend wines that, in my opinion, can create great wine experiences.
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