2010 Best Washington Wines: Sweet Wines

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2010 Best Washington Wines
2010 Best Washington Wines: Whites
2010 Best Washington Wines: White Blends
2010 Best Washington Wines: Red
2010 Best Washington Wines: Red Blends
2010 Best Washington Wines: Malbecs
2010 Best Washington Wines: Directory




2010 Best Washington Wines: Sweet Wines

Best late-harvest wine under $25
Kiona 2008 LH Riesling
(columbia Valley, $10–$15)

This dessert wine has just 10 percent residual sugar, making it much less sweet than many dessert wines. Great acidity makes your mouth water, and flavors of lemon, fresh apricot, a little spice and applesauce fill the palate. Good with a fruit tart or cheeses and nuts for dessert, this wine would also pair well with a spicy Thai curry.


Best late-harvest wine over $25
Chateau Ste. Michelle 2006 Ethos Late Harvest White Riesling
(columbia Valley, $39.99)

One of the many decadent and delicious dessert wines from Chateau Ste. Michelle, the grapes for this wine were harvested after all the other Horse Heaven Vineyard grapes were off the vines. Rich and unctuous on the palate, the aromas are fresh and light, with clover, sweet apricot and pear. A perfect match with any fruity/spicy dessert, such as an apple or pumpkin tart.


Best ice wine
Chateau Ste. Michelle 2006
Eroica Ice Wine
(columbia Valley, $60)

This rare wine is made only when the grapes can be harvested frozen from the vine. What results is a concentrated, velvety, truly special elixir. Toasted nuts, caramel and honey on the nose, with lush stewed apricot and baked pear, it’s dessert in a glass; pair it with blue cheese and walnuts or dried fruit for sipping in front of the fire.


Originally published April 2010