Victor Palencia recently moved production of his Monarcha brand into the newly opened Columbia Gardens Wine Village in Kennewick, officially dubbed “an Urban Wine & Artisan Village.
“I’m excited to host food trucks, food and culture nights and other events tailored around the wineries.” He plans to keep his other winery, the Palencia Wine Company, at the Walla Walla Airport.
Represented by butterfly wings on the colorfully designed labels, Victor says his Vino la Monarcha wines symbolize his belief in something better in life. “The beautiful Monarch butterfly goes through one of the most amazing migrations, and one of the largest populations originates from my home state of Michoacán, Mexico. This migration is about succession, a dream for something better. Everytime a Monarcha wine is opened I like to say the butterfly has landed, and then invite you to let your own dreams take flight.”
Visit the new tasting room in Kennewick at 421 E Columbia Dr, Bldg A140, Kennewick; www.palenciawine.com
Recent wines we reviewed:
Vino la Monarcha 2017 Pinot Noir Rose, $20
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-95 pts.)
Aromas of strawberry, cherry and fresh cut hay roll onto the bright, yet creamy palate joined by citrusy flavors of orange spritzer and watermelon rind with notes of rose water, delicate herb and saline spice on the off-dry finish.
Vino la Monarcha 2014 Wahluke Slope Sangiovese, $20
Editor’s Choice – Excellent (86-90 pts.)
This rich, full-bodied version is chiseled and well cut, loaded with nubby tannins and a bold profile of cherry, strawberry, violet, rose petal, tobacco and warm stone flavors. Light caramel notes surface on the smooth finish.