Milbrandt Vineyards: 2012 Ancient Lakes Riesling and 2012 The Estates Viognier



By Kori ~ February 12th, 2014.

Brothers Butch and Jerry Milbrandt planted their first vines in Washington’s Columbia Valley and Wahluke Slope in 1997. Today, Milbrandt Vineyards is comprised of over 2,000 acres of estate vineyards. After selling their grapes to wineries throughout Washington for years, the Milbrandts launched their own winery in 2005. Joshua Maloney, who previously worked for wineries in California and then as Chateau Ste. Michelle’s red winemaker, joined Milbrandt Vineyards as Director of Winemaking in 2011. The Milbrandt Vineyards tasting room is located in Prosser, Washington.

Recently, we had the opportunity to taste the 2012 The Estates Ancient Lakes Riesling and 2012 The Estates Viognier in a blind samples tasting. Both wines are very good and food-friendly. Even though we are in the throes of winter, either of these wines would be a good choice when you have a hankering for white wine.

Milbrandt Vineyards consistently offers a lineup of good quality wines that deliver great bang for your buck.

2012 Milbrandt Vineyards The Estates Ancient Lakes Riesling (Evergreen Vineyard, Ancient Lakes of the Columbia Valley, Washington): 100% Riesling. Pale, greenish straw yellow. Very aromatic with white peach, lime, petrol notes, and a touch of minerality on both the nose and palate. Dry and light to medium-bodied with crisp acidity and a long, refreshing finish.
Quality: 3.5 stars (out of 5)
QPR: 4 bangs for your buck (out of 5)
Where to buy: Received as sample, suggested retail $16.99; Available elsewhere, $20

2012 Milbrandt Vineyards The Estates Viognier (Wahluke Slope, Washington): 100% Viognier. Pale, greenish straw yellow. Nice nose with citrus, honey, and floral aromas. Lime and lemon come through on the palate. Dry and light-bodied with tart acidity and a very long, refreshing finish.
Quality: 3.5 stars (out of 5)
QPR: 2 bangs for your buck (out of 5)
Where to buy: Received as sample, suggested retail $19.99; Available elsewhere, $14 to $22


Filed under: American Wine, Riesling, Viognier, Washington State Wine, White Wine, Wines Under $20, Wines Under $25

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