First thing I want to say is that David Traynor, winemaker at Mount Baker Vineyards is one hell of a nice guy. Young, energetic, knowledgeable and a great host he has done some fantastic things at Mount Baker Vineyards. I am happy for winery owner Randy Finley whom I consider a good friend and a great winemaker in his own rights, who deserves to have someone on board who cares about the wines and winery as much as he does. I had the opportunity to barrel taste some of the '08 stuff that David is watching over. I was very impressed with the quality of juice and am looking forward to buying it in bottle. David is working on a blend that is absolutely stunning, not for it's sleekness, but for it's sturdiness and ageability. This is some "Old World" style juice that you do not see around too much anymore. A blend of several grapes including cab, malbec, petit verdot among others, this wine is chewy, well built and delicious. I believe in another five years this wine will be gold. I tasted the Copeland Vineyards Chardonnay and was blown away by the creaminess and fruit that was displayed without any malolactic fermentation. Look for some awesome chardonnay out of this winery next year. Among other '08 wines out of barrel that I tried were the cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot and tempranillo. All of these wines were showing very well with excellent depth, good fruit and acid balance. '08 is going to be a stellar vintage for Mount Baker Vineyards!

Another wine that I tried was the '09 sauvignon blanc. I believe I have mentioned on several occasions that it is difficult to find good sauvignon blanc from Washington State. Usually uninteresting it lacks minerality, complexity and flavor. There are exceptions of course; Mercer Estates, Ste Michelle Horse Heaven Hills, Milbrandt and this jewel from Mount Baker Vineyards. This sauvignon blanc had to be one of the best domestics I have had in awhile. Vibrant on the palate with notes of grass, grapefruit, lemon and lime with excellent minerality. This rivals many New Zealand sauvignon blancs and I believe once you taste it, you will be back for more. Watch the wine shelves for the release of this vintage in your local store or get on Mount Baker Vineyards mailing list by visiting their website @ www.mountbakervineyards.com.

I want to thank David and Randy for their hospitality and sharing their outstanding wines with me. Cheers! Stan The Wine Man.