Among vintner Lisa Warr-King Packer’s latest releases are a series of single-vineyard reds. Crafted with deep fruit flavors and a backbone of acidity (that Washington State is famous for producing), these wines are enjoyable now, yet hold great promise of aging potential as well.
Lisa’s eponymous winery is in the heart of Woodinville’s warehouse winery district, where she produced her first commercial vintage in 2012. Visitors will find a full lineup of current releases here, and a few library wines as well. They are an easy drive from anywhere in the Greater Seattle area at 19501 144th Ave NE, Ste D-700, Woodinville. Phone (425) 558-3994 or learn more at the website: www.warr-kingwines.com
Below are 3 releases we recently reviewed:
Warr-King Wines 2017 Weinbau Vineyard Merlot
93 pts.
Strikingly bold, this is one of those Merlots that Cabernet and Bordeaux lovers will equally appreciate. With only 46 cases made, this impresses with integral dark fruit inlaid with a seductive layer of silky yet firm tannins. Deep and rich, the black cherry and plum flavors are embedded with enticing nuances of bittersweet chocolate, graphite and cedar shavings that pulse through the long finish. Drink now, but this will continue to improve with cellar aging. $40
Warr-King Wines 2018 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Syrah
93 pts.
Sourced from Stillwater Creek Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA, this version is polished on a multitude of levels, backlit with fresh acidity that drives plush expressions of juicy blackberry and cherry flavors detailed with mocha, olive and gentle, smoky pepper hints. Captivating, with smooth tannins that linger on the concentrated finish. 95 cases produced. $38
Warr-King Wines 2018 Stillwater Creek Vineyard Malbec
92 pts.
This is lively, embellished with savory details of espresso, herbs, cracked pepper and dark chocolate that enhance concentrated cherry and raspberry flavors. The contoured finish weaves around spice notes aligned with bright acidity and minerally freshness. 75 cases produced. $40