Producer: Snoqualmie Vineyards
Wine: “Naked” Riesling
Vintage: 2004
Country: USA
Appellation: Columbia Valley, Washington
Wine Type: White
Primary Varietal: 100% White Riesling
Grade: B
Designation: Cheap and Good
Price: $10

Snoqualmie Vineyards is granted its name from mountain pass at the top of the Cascade Range that serves as the gateway to vineyards in the Columbia Valley in eastern Washington. The Cascades create a buffer between this region and Seattle’s rainy weather, offering the valley ample sunlight and a dry climate perfect for wine grapes.

The company maintains vineyards throughout Columbia Valley, including the regions of the Wahluke Slope, Horse Heaven Hills located along the Columbia River in south central Columbia Valley, and Yakima Valley.

In an interesting twist, it turns out that “things taste better in the buff,” as the label for Snoqualmie’s 2004 “Naked” Riesling so honestly notes. This light and refreshing white wine is made with certified organically grown grapes and yes, there’s a noticeable difference. A brighter, more natural tasting acidity persists throughout the light body of this wine, despite the initial timid taste of the liquid upon the palate.

But its light color and mass of aromas saves what otherwise might be a forgettable white wine, carrying fresh flavors of apple, sweet pear and apricot, along with spicy nuances and a short, off-dry finish that’s clean and soft. Perfect for sipping while nibbling from an assorted cheese plate or on appetizers.

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