August 27, 2010

To purchase wine or subscribe to this For Sale list contact the WINE BANK at:

winebankup@qwestoffice.net, Ph 253.564.1101, or Fax 253.564.1302

We just had the opportunnity to taste through four of Tempus Cellars new wines with owner-winemaker Joe Forest. Joe and Mollie Forest started the winery in Walla Walla in 2004. Even now with very limited quantities they are going to start distributing the wines on a wider basis.

Without hesitation we can say these wines are one of the best line-ups top to bottom we have tasted this year. The wines have exceptional structure and deliver in all areas. Seattle Magazine called Tempus one of the 10 best wineries in Washinton in 2010.

2009 Tempus Cellars Evergreen Vineyard Riesling – Designed like wines from Mosel, it is crisp and precise with peach and apricot flavors. The finish balances minerality and acidity with perfect finesse.

131 cases produced, 11.8% alcohol, 1.1% RS

$17.97ea – club $15.27

2007 Tempus Cellars Seven Hills Vineyard Merlot – This 100% Merlot is what Washington Merlot should be all about. Move over Pinot Noir; this wine will create Merlot fans again. It is textbook solid with cherry and dark chocolate notes. Taste the vineyard terroir after savory herb aromas have excited your palate. This isn’t your mom’s wimpy Merlot.

51 cases produced, 22 mo Fr oak, 14.7% alcohol

$30.97ea – club $26.32

2007 Tempus Cellars Syrah – With 20% Grenache this wine reminds us of a couple Rhone wines we have tatsted lately. The fruit is from Dwelley and Alder Ridge Vineyards and comes together with both power and finesse. It is meaty up front, full bodied in the middle, and spicey through the finish. Look hard and you may find some raspberry freezer jam in the mix.

112 cases, 22 mo Fr oak, 14.8% alcohol

$27.97ea – club $23.77

2007 Tempus Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon – Throw in 14% Seven Hills Merlot with Cab Sauv from Sagemoor and Klipsun Vineyards and if you know what your doing you may have one of the most exciting Cab’s in our store. Well….Joe knew what he was doing! The wine is classic Cab from aromas to flavor. Blackberry, cassis and plum leading to herbs and black licorice. The wine is bold but not over-bearing and should not be missed.

Wine Enthusiast Sept 2010 – 91 Points

150 cases produced, 22 mo Fr oak, 14.8% alcohol