Located on the Washington side of the stunningly gorgeous Columbia Gorge AVA, this family-owned boutique winery was founded in 2007 by Brad Gearhart. He named the winery after his two sons, Jacob and William. The winery sources grapes from the Columbia Valley and Columbia Gorge AVAs, producing a distinctive array of red and white wines. You can find and taste these artisan wines at their tasting room in Wishram, Wash. (next to Avery Park), while soaking up the natural scenery of the Columbia River and Mt. Hood from the wrap-around patio.
Visit & Taste
Tasting Room: 3 Avery Road, Wishram, WA
Open May-October: Daily, 10am-6pm
Open Nov.-April: Thurday-Sunday, 11am-5pm
January only: Saturday & Sunday, 11am-5pm.
Website: www.jacobwilliamswinery.com
Here are five releases that we recently sampled:
Jacob Williams 2014 Syrah, $30
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-95 pts.)
Aromas of blue and purple-tinged berries lead to deep fruit flavors of boysenberry and dried berry that intermingle with a good dose of caramel, cocoa powder and crushed rock. Firm tannins hold their grip on the finish, joined by hints of pencil shavings, peppercorn and toasty vanilla.
Jacob Williams 2014 Eagle Ranch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, $40
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-95 pts.)
Sultry aromas of black fruit and chai introduce this broad, bold Cabernet. Succulent blackberry, black cherry and boysenberry flavors infuse with intriguing notes of cardamom, cinnamon, clove, cocoa, violet and leather. Impeccably structured, with lean, muscly tannins that meld with the fruit and spice flavors on the lengthy aftertaste.
Jacob Williams Winery 2014 Acadia Vineyard Pinot Gris, $18
Editor’s Choice – Excellent (86-90 pts.)
Lovely aromas of Sungold kiwi, pear and yellow apple echo on the minerally-driven palate, joined by tropical fruit flavors of fresh-sliced pineapple and starfruit. Hints of apricots weave throught the crisp, juicy finish.
Jacob Williams 2013 Hi-Valley Vineyard Merlot, $28
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-95 pts.)
Well structured and vibrant, this polished red delivers fine tension behind the expressive mix of red currant and black cherry flavors nuanced with distinctive accents of graphite, cedar, cola and spice notes that roll effortlessly through the long finish.
Jacob Williams Winery Sadie Red – Vintner’s Blend (NV), $22
Editor’s Choice – Excellent (86-90 pts.)
Smooth, spicy and fruit driven, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc is dubbed after Jacob Williams’ loyal winery dog. Leading with dusky aromas of red and black fruit, the palate is ripe, bold and full of personality, evoking dark berry, black cherry and red plum flavors backed by savory interplays of tobacco, forest floor and exotic spice.