Great Value WA Producer

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1997 White Heron, Chantepierre, Washington, $11, 800 cases. A blend of 62% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Malbec. Softer on the palate and less complex than the Mariposa Red Wine, this wine does offer a nice spectrum of red fruit flavors. 84/86.

1998 White Heron, Dry Rose, Washington State, $7, 500 cases. A blend of Lemberger, Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc. Lovely aromas of strawberry and rhubarb are found in this very clean, very crisp wine. Tasty strawberry fruit takes the forefront, with a touch of rhubarb peering through. Worth the search to find. 87/93.

1997 White Heron, Red Wine, Mariposa Vineyard, Washington, $13, 224 cases. A blend of 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Malbec. The wine has a fruity, complex nose. Very elegant and easy on the palate, the juicy red and black fruit seems to change with every sip. Tasty. 86/89.

1999 White Heron, Pinot Noir, Mariposa Vineyard, Washington, $13, 140 cases. Medium-bodied, with nice acidity, this wine has black cherry fruit and cedar displayed on the nose and palate. It is difficult to find this level of quality at this price. 86/89.

1999 White Heron, Syrah, Mariposa Vineyard, Washington, $13. Black fruit, a touch of smoke and cedar greet the nose. Very fruity, elegant, with a touch of black pepper and food-friendly acidity, the wine paired beautifully with beef tenderloin and green peppercorn sauce. 86/90.

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