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More on Claar Cellars
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Claar Cellars
Claar Cellars is a family owned estate winery located in the White Bluffs growing region in Washington State. Crista and Bob Whitelatch were both active duty Naval Officers and in 1983 he retired and Crista transferred into the Naval Reserves. At that time they started to develop 300 acres into premium wine, apples, and asparagus. Over 80 acres of vineyards grace the area called White Bluffs over looking the Columbia River.
In 1996 they became an estate winery after 13 years of selling their grapes to other wineries. In 1999 they added a 4000 sq, foot temperature controlled barrel building which was added to the already existing 10,000 square foot winery. Bruno Corneaux is the winemaker, with a French background. Not only are they great hard working people, but are committed to quality in producing 25,000 cases annually. Here are a few of their wine features to begin with, with many more to follow.
Claar Cellars 2004 Late Harvest Riesling
This might be the best wine from Claar Cellars! This wine is rich and ready to add to any dessert. The location of the vineyards makes this wine stand out, and also makes sure that you will have at least two, maybe three glasses. This wine comes in a very nice half bottle, which is perfect for a dessert by itself. Sweet but not over the top, I have had this wine with fresh fruit, lemon tart, and it is a great finishing touch to any meal.
Claar Cellars 2001 Sangiovese
Sangiovese does very well in Washington State. This wine does very well with pasta, and more pasta! Bob Whitelatch is proud of this wine, and all he asks is for you to try it, you'll like it! Ruby in color with aromas of cherry jam, smoke and spice, this fruit is 100% from White Bluffs vineyard. This is a pasta wine, but also try roast of pork…my favorite!
Claar Cellars 2002 Wooded Island Cabernet Sauvignon
A joint venture between Claar Cellars and their neighbor has brought a new and exciting wine to the forefront. This wine along with the Merlot, will improve each year, and drinks very well right now. The wine has a great backbone, intense in color and a nose of dark chocolate cherries, violets and vanilla. This is one of a number of wines made by Bruno Corneaux and is the first vintage of this wine. The use of French oak and a great vineyard source make this wine a sure bet to be better each year.
Claar Cellars 2002 Wooded Island Merlot
This wine, a joint venture also, is a wine which speaks of the future of Claar cellars. Their winemaker, Bruno Corneaux, has been making wine for Bob Whitelatch for many years. In recent times they have done a few different wines expressing a very French style of winemaking. This wine is great with meat and potatoes followed closely by another course of the same. A single vineyard source which has promise and are made to drink now and hold a few bottles to enjoy later, and compare to the future vintages of this wine.
Claar Cellars 2005 Riesling
This is a Johannisberg style Riesling meaning some sugar is left in the wine. Lemon and peach over tones make this great for spicy food, such as Thai. The finish will lend itself to another spicy bite followed by another drink of this Riesling. Claar Cellars has been known for this wine for many years, and it sells out quicker each vintage. Many wineries in Washington State grew Riesling 25-30 years ago, but ripped out the vineyards to plant grapes that brought more income. Thankfully Claar Cellars held their course and produced this fantastic wine..
Claar Cellars Rendezous Red
All the fruit from this wine comes from the estate vineyard of Claar Cellars. It is a blend of 65% Cab Sav, 32% Merlot 1% Cab Franc, and 2% Syrah. The great balance in this wine lends it to everyday drinking, and the long finish is well integrated with tannins and a slight hint of oak. This wine is priced for everyday consumption, but the French oak give it a finish that's smoky and full of fruit. Just writing about this wine has made me decide to open my last bottle with dinner this evening…I will call Claar Cellars and order more tomorrow, I suggest you do the same.
Cheers!