Happy 30th Birthday to a Favorite Washington Wine

By Seattle Mag September 13, 2012

lecole41

I’ll be raising a glass or three of the smashing Semillon to toast one of my very favorite winery’s anniversary.

The winery in the schoolhouse in Lowdenjust down the road from another gem, Woodward Canyonwas the realization of the dream of Walla Walla banker and longtime fermented grape fan, Baker Ferguson and his wife, Jean. The couple, who have both passed away, turned over the operation to their son-in-law, Marty Clubb, who’s been at the helm for decades now. The winery has expanded dramatically over time, producing an extensive lineup of stellar wines at great prices, and yet it maintains its original Mom-and-Pop charm.

It also maintains its longstanding commitment to the under-appreciated white wine with roots in Bordeaux. Semillon is a red wine lover’s white: bright and bracing, clean and crisp. The snappy acidity makes it sensational alongside so many foods, especially oysters and all sorts of fish dishes. I’m dead sure it’s going to be the next “IT” wine one of these days, but I’ve been thinking that for a long time. Nearly as long as L’Ecole’s been making it. (Also love Chinook’s Semillion.)

L’Ecole celebrated the kick-off of its 30th harvest last weekend, and is cooking up some special events throughout the year.

See the winery’s website for details.

 

Follow Us