It’s no secret that there are many great wines produced in Washington State.  In fact, Washington now boasts 10 federally recognized American Viticultural Areas, or appellations.

With so many options, how does one choose?  Although many may not admit it, sometimes it comes down to fate and timing.

While wine tasting recently in Walla Walla, Washington (located in the southeastern part of the state), I was overwhelmed with the amount of vineyards surrounding the town, as well as tasting rooms dominating the quaint downtown scene.  No wonder I was overwhelmed—according to the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance, the Walla Walla Valley has exploded over the last few years, and now is home to over 90 wineries.

After a long day of hopping from one tasting room to the next, one last storefront caught my eye—and it has since become my go-to winemaker for special meals, great gifts, and everyday treats.

Admittedly, Sleight of Hand Cellars (located in downtown Walla Walla at 16 North 2^nd Avenue) drew me in with its friendly staff, clever branding, and gorgeously designed labels—I’m a sucker for great marketing and design. But once we stepped up to the table for tasting, we were blown away.

Sleight of Hand has only been in business since 2007, but has already been named one of “The Next Generation” of up-and-coming wineries by Seattle Magazine. And, they regularly sell out of some of their special blends. However, here are two of their regular offerings that you must try:

“The Spellbinder” is a red blend, a combination of  60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Malbec, and 10% Sangiovese. It has an intense, but not overpowering flavor, and is the perfect wine to stock up on for rich, decadent fall and winter dinners.

I’d also recommend “The Magician” (seeing the theme yet?).  It’s a refreshing; a sweet,  but not too sweet Gewurztraminer that you can’t get through your summer evenings without.

Check out their Sleight of Hand’s website at www.sofhcellars.com. You’ll even get a peek at their fantastic, old-fashioned magic-themed labels. And plan a trip to Walla Walla this summer—there’s no better time (or excuse!) for a wine tasting trip than the warm , long days of early summer in Eastern Washington.

Details:

Price: From $17-$19 per bottle. Special editions up to $40.

Tasting Room: 16 North 2nd Avenue. Walla Walla, WA 99362.

Where to buy: Available at many restaurants, wine shops, and grocery stores throughout the Northwest. Also available for sale on the website: www.sofhcellars.com.

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