Northstar grabbed our attention when a friend brought over a bottle of their 2018 Merlot. It was a very good Merlot for a reasonable price. Naturally, we had to take a stop at their Walla Walla tasting room. The room is inviting with a large fireplace, that was very welcoming on the cold, dreary day we visited.
Northstar has been around since the 1990s, with their Merlot was a major focus. They create some beautifully balanced Merlots, and other reds, sourced from Columbia Valley and Walla Walla Valley.
2016 Brut Blanc de Blanc, Columbia Valley
"This limited production 2016 vintage sparkling wine was created in the traditional methode champenoise. The juice was fermented in a concrete egg, and the wine was en tirage for 48 months for maximum flavor and quality."
Price $50 | $40
Rating n/a
2019 Cabernet Franc, Walla Walla Valley
"This limited production single vineyard wine showcases Cabernet Franc which grows particularly well in the Walla Walla Valley."
Price $60 | $48
Rating 4.5
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley
"Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon is velvety and soft. Aromas of black cherry and raspberry intertwined with huckleberry cobbler, butterscotch and cardamom leading into a long finish ending with a hint of nutmeg and vanilla."
Price $60 | $48
Rating 4.0
2019 Merlot, Columbia Valley
"The 2019 vintage has rich concentrated aromas of black cherry, cedar, and mocha that lead into flavors of raspberry, chocolate, cherry, and vanilla. The wine is bold and bright and was created to enjoy now, or for many years to come as it will age gracefully."
Price $45 | $36
Rating 3.9
2017 Premier Merlot, Columbia Valley
"The 2017 growing season was cooler and crop yields were significantly lower in comparison to the past two vintages."
Price $100 | $80
Rating 4.0
While we really enjoyed the 2018 Merlot, we found the 2019 Cabernet Franc very good! Northstar offered a great tasting, and they also provide some interesting wine blending events.
