It’s the best kind of wine riddle: what’s better than one fabulous winemaker? Three, of course, and these are three who know how to maximize their strengths and produce impressive, yet reasonably priced wines that are sure to please.
Guild Winemakers is an exciting collaboration between three dynamic young winemakers based in the Pacific Northwest. John Grochau, Anne Hubatch and Vincent Fritzsche have banded together in a unique and tasty collaboration.
John Grochau is owner and winemaker of Grochau Cellars, and produces Pinot Noir, Gamay Noir and several whites from the Willamette Valley, as well as wine from eastern Washington. Anne Hubatch runs both Helioterra Wines and Whoa Nelly. She makes Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and Syrah, other reds from eastern Washington, as well as a range of aromatic Oregon whites. Vincent Fritzsche is owner of Vincent Wine Company, producing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Gamay Noir, all from vineyards around the Willamette Valley.
The grapes for Guild wines are sourced from all over the Willamette Valley in Oregon and the Columbia Valley that straddles Oregon and Washington. By working with different lots and grapes each year, the trio is able to produce wines that reflect their vintage and provide a unique drinking experience. That’s why this month, we felt “inspired” to offer some of their latest to our faithful wine club members.
2015 Pinot Gris “Lot #10,” Willamette Valley
This is why this wine region produces such interesting wines. Volcanic and sedimentary soil in two vineyards that are approximately 15 years old bring out the nuanced flavors of this light and bright white that is 100% Pinot Gris. Think terroir! Fermented and aged in stainless tanks, this vintage of Pinot Gris offers flavors of orange peel, pineapple and lemon cream that are nicely balanced with bright acidity and a round mouthfeel. A refreshingly long finish makes for a delicious dry white wine that can stand alone or be enjoyed with your favorite grilled chicken souvlaki, crab cakes, light cheese – even spicy dishes. Yes, this is a versatile wine that can stand alone or pair with…whatever is on the menu.
2014 Red Blend “Lot #11,” Columbia Valley
Here’s a hearty Red that you will soon always want to have on hand. Sourced from multiple vineyards across the Columbia Valley, the Guild Winemakers’ Red is always a Syrah-based blend with a variety of other Rhone grapes. This aromatic blend is 56% Syrah, 22% Mourvedre, 14% Counoise, 6% Carignan and 2% Grenache. Fermented in stainless steel, but then aged in a mix of oak barrels for 18 months, this vintage offers a deep red color and rich aromas of blackberries, cured meats and flowers. On the palate, it’s flavors of wild berries, pepper and earth. This is a perfect Red to marry up with a grilled bison steak or spicy lamb tagine.
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