Tasting Notes – Washington State 05.07.2025

presented by Megan Gadwah of 3 Keys Distributing

Lulu Blanc de Blanc ~ NV

Lulu is a name that defines someone as an exceptional or extraordinary being, but more importantly, someone willing to struggle and endure hardship to yield equally exceptional results. From the farmers who pick our fruit and tend to our land, to the winemakers who put their heart and soul into every grape they press and bottle they cork. Lulu represents those people, as much as the final expression of their labors, in every bottle.
Appellation: Ancient Lakes of the Columbia Valley AVA
Grapes:
84% Riesling, 11% Chardonnay, 3% Moscato, 2% Viognier – ABV 12.5%
Tasting notes: Aromatic with scents of peach, pear, and apple. Delicious and dry with a lighter body and leaning heavily into citrus, apple, and pear flavor profiles.
Pairings:
The perfect wine to toast with. Share this wonderful sparkling wine with friends and loved ones.
Producer: Washington Wine Group [91 Points Sunset International Wine Competition]

Readers Rosé ~ 2024

The story of J. Bookwalter Winery is one of family heritage, deep roots, and a centuries-old commitment to the land. Ten generations of the Bookwalter family have been involved in American agriculture. But it was Jerry Bookwalter, generation nine and father of current company president John Bookwalter, who led the family into viticulture. J. Bookwalter specializes in producing some of Washington’s finest wines through meticulous winemaking and exceptional vineyard sources. Today, it is one of Washington’s most recognized wine brands with multiple awards and honors from Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, and the Wine Advocate, as well as distribution and sales in 35 states and Canada.

Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA
Grapes:
89% Grenache, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon – ABV 14.8%
Tasting notes: Brilliant pale salmon. Nose has tropical – guava, white pineapple, banana, hints of strawberry, and light citrus – tangerine. On the palate, find smooth, round entry, lush mouthfeel, well-balanced acid, bright but not tart, cris,p clean fruity finish. Sweet tropical fruit flavors of guava, star fruit, & pineapple, with Meyer lemon and white strawberry on the finish.
Pairings: Pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is an excellent choice for tapas, summer salads, or grilled seafood.
Producer:
J. BOOKWALTER WINERY

Readers Merlot ~ 2020

This Merlot blend was made using a combination of machine and hand-picked fruit in late September and early October. The fermentation process involved whole berry fermentation with various extraction techniques. Once it reached the optimal structural balance, it moved into neutral oak barrels for secondary fermentation before resting on lees for 18 months.
Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA & Wahluke Slope AVA
Grapes:
75% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec – ABV 15%
Tasting notes: Pale ruby with subtle hues. On the nose is dark cherry, raspberry, and clove. There are flavors of plum, fig, and blackberry; Juicy expressions, suave mid palate, and a lingering finish
Pairings: Pappardelle pasta with a savory and herbaceous Bolognese sauce.
Producer:
J. BOOKWALTER WINERY

Kate Arnold Cabernet Sauvignon ~ 2022

Founded by Kate and Jean Arnold, our family-owned wine company is driven by a deep love for wine, an unwavering commitment to exceptional quality, and a genuine appreciation for the growers and distributors who make it all possible. We set ourselves apart by embracing a hands-on approach, meticulous vineyard sourcing, and a steadfast belief in minimal intervention winemaking. We take pride in crafting wines that are not age-specific, welcoming wine enthusiasts of all levels to join us on a journey of discovery and learning.
Appellation: Columbia Valley AVA
Grapes:
89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Syrah – ABV 14.5%
Tasting notes: Deep ruby color with black cherry, dried fig, and violet on the nose. Flavors of cassis, dark chocolate, and black pepper. It has consistently round fruit throughout the palate with soft tannins and a lingering finish.
Producer: Kate Arnold Wines