Pine Lake Cellars was founded in 2013 by Robert and Chantelle McCall. The expressed goal is making excellent wines from some of the finest and most expressive vineyards from Washington State’s Columbia Valley region. The winery makes an array of Bordeaux varietal wines along with a Pinot Gris and a Rose of Syrah. Robert is the winemaker.
The West Seattle tasting room was 3 years in the making but opened earlier this month on California Avenue not far from the West Seattle Nursery. With coveted outdoor seating the tasting room is sure to be a hit this Spring and Summer. On a recent Thursday evening all the outdoor seating was being used but we found a table inside their quaint tasting room. My advice would be to book ahead if you want to ensure an outdoor table.
The wines are all very good and fairly priced. We brought a couple home to try.
2014 Pine Lake Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Spice Cabinet Vineyard – Purple in color. 14.4% ABV. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Horse Heaven Hills. Terrific nose of black fruits, leather and tobacco. Rich and plush. Blackberry, cassis liqueur, currants and spice on the palate. Medium length on the finish. Nice wine that is easy to drink. Delicious now but this will cellar well for another 2-3 years. Really great value at $28 from the winery. My rating: 89 points.
2013 Pine Lake Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Tributary Reserve – Crimson in color. 14.3% ABV. Brooding nose of black fruits, leather, cedar and graphite. Lush and concentrated. Full bodied with tremendous acidity. Blackberry, currants, plums and earth on the palate. The finish is long and seamless with silky tannins. The structure is here if you want to let this wine age but it is certainly enjoyable now. Best over the next 2-4 years. $40 at the winery. My rating: 91 points.
If you live in West Seattle, Pine Lake Cellars is worth a visit. We will certainly be back and I will make sure to reserve an outdoor table next time around.