Archeus Wines may be a newcomer to Washington’s wine scene, but the story behind the vino is twenty years old. Co-founders Donn Hogan and Erik Geiger met in medical school on a Southern Caribbean Island in 1997. Through the trials and tribulations of living abroad and the stress of attending medical school, a close friendship was formed. That bond held tight even as they went their separate ways in residency back in the U.S.—both were married in 2002, and Erik served as best man in Donn’s wedding. Yearly snowboarding trips and the occasional music festival kept the best friends in close contact. As time pressed on, discovery and exploration of good wine was added to the mix of other similar interests.
Destiny brought these two physicians together with one of Washington’s prominent winegrape grower, Dick Shaw. When Shaw was temporarily hospitalized in Phoenix, Arizona in 2012, Dr. Donn Hogan assisted in his care. Upon learning of Donn’s interest in wine, Dick offered an invitation for a personal vineyard tour. Donn accepted and, of course, invited Erik. Both were enthralled with the terroir of Red Mountain AVA, as well as the wines. They were introduced to winemaker Charlie Hoppes and with this initial seed planted, Donn and Erik arranged a follow-up meeting with Charlie to discuss launching a small, boutique label focused on Cabernet and Syrah.
Archeus’ goal is to stand apart from other Red Mountain brands by paying close attention to different varietal clones, yeast strains, Bordeaux varietal blends and most importantly, barrels. Their focused approach is paying dividends, resulting in distinctive wines with bold earthy character balanced with lush dark fruit.
Archeus Wines 2014 Magnetic Cabernet Sauvignon, $48
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-94 pts.)
This Red Mountain Cab has 17% Petit Verdot for added depth. Deep aromas of black fruit, pencil shavings and bits of tar lead to polished flavors of blackberry, black plum, tobacco, cedar and notes of vanilla. Well-poised acidity balances effortlessly with thick tannins that grip the finish.
Archeus Wines 2013 Two Storms Cabernet Sauvignon, $48
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-94 pts.)
This single vineyard version was sourced from Red Heaven Vineyard and aged 22 months in French oak barrels. Power are grace are the hallmark of this supple red wine, exuding generous earthy aromas of leather, red fruit, violet and tobacco. Solidly built, offering powdery tannins framed against core flavors of blackberry, cherry, red plum and cacao nib. Finishes elegant and long.
Archeus Wines 2014 Genesis Syrah, $38
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-94 pts.)
Lush and polished, this inky-hued red wine is deeply concentrated, overflowing with mascerated blackberry, cassis and black plum flavors framed with predominant notes of baker’s chocolate, coffee, anise and sagebrush. Distinctive and finely structured, this is a standout version.
Archeus wines are currently available through their website at www.archeuswines.com