With big-name French and California reds beyond the budgets of most wine drinkers these days, except for special occasions, Washington’s red wines are looking better and better. Yes, a relative handful of the state’s top bottlings now retail for $60 or more, but the number of excellent values in the $20 to $30 range is greater than ever before, thanks in large part to a succession of successful vintages. Vintage 2008, in particular, produced vibrant, intense wines with lovely balance, thanks to a coolish growing season and a late, relaxed harvest that took place under excellent conditions. READ MORE »
