Justin Neufeld became the winemaker for Gilbert Cellars in 2007 and then took
over management of the vineyards in 2009. He also has his own label JB
Neufeld which produces some fine Cabernet. This Saturday, Justin will be
here with us, pouring some of the new vintages from Gilbert as well as his own
wine. Come have a taste of his handiwork.
2012 Gilbert Cellars, Rosé of Mourvedre $14
Mourvedre can make a big earthy red wine and also a beautiful
classic styled rosé. From their vineyards on Wahluke Slope, Gilbert’s Rosé has
aromas of Cantaloupe, Grapefruit, and first-crop Palisade Peach set against an
intriguing undercurrent of pine, coriander, and dried lavender. Though dry, the
palate offers considerable body as a result of the warmer vintage and a 75
percent barrel fermentation. The acid is present but not overwhelming, allowing
this wine to be enjoyed as simple refreshment or with some thought and more
complex cuisine.
2012 Gilbert Cellars, Gewurtztraminer $17
Planted on a southeastern-facing slope of Gilbert’s Hackett Ranch
their Gewürztraminer presents bright tropical aromas of pineapple, kiwi, and
melon along with hints of fennel seed, basil, and mandarin. Supple yet dry, the
Gewürztraminer dances on the palate with a variety of complementary flavors and
a refreshing character.
2010 Gilbert Cellars, Allobroges $20
37% Syrah, 34% Mourvedre, 29% Grenache
From Wahluke Slope’s Doc Stewart & 24K vineyards Gilbert’s
Rhone style blend named after the Gallic tribe of the Allobroges who introduced
winemaking to the Romans. Ripe aromas of blackberry, plum, and late-season Bing
Cherry deepen and soften with time in the glass as subtle aromas of sage,
smoke, and baking spice begin to make their way forward. The palate is firm but
balanced, with excellent length making this a wine that will pair beautifully
with rich, hearty fare now or will lay down and mellow for many years to come.
2010 Gilbert Cellars, Left Bank Red $20
53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Petit Verdot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 8%
Merlot, 5% Malbec
The Left Bank was named after the “Left Bank” of Bordeaux
which this delicious blend is styled after. And also because the Doc Stewart
& 24K Vineyards from which it comes are perched on the Left Bank of the
Columbia River. The wine is dark and full of well structured, lip-smacking
tannins.
2010 JB Neufeld, Yakima Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $34
This Cabernet is a blend of Artz vineyard and Dubrul vineyard. The Dubrul fruit
helped to soften the monstrous mid-palate of the Artz fruit. It provided a
wonderful sweetness up front on the palate and added herbal and tea notes to
the nose. The Artz fruit created the foundation for this wine, contributing
classic Red Mountain mouthfeel and wonderful dark fruits on the nose. Tannin
content, overall, was much higher than normal in 2010. This (in conjunction
with a pH of 3.52) will allow it to age in bottle with grace.