One sip and you may understand why the name Anelare was chosen for this small boutique winery from Benton City, WA. Anelare is Italian for desire…to long for.

Producing less than 1000 cases per year, much of Anelare’s wine is only distributed through their tasting studio in Kennewick, WA. When the Alexander family pursued their passions for wine, they enlisted the help of Victor Cruz of Canon del Sol. Victor’s wine has received critical acclaim for its consistent structure and quality.

2007 marks Anelare’s third vintage. Wine club members have exclusive access to estate Syrah (Ciel du Cheval), and reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Non wine club members can purchase Nonna Viola Red Wine and Saint Helena Syrah. With PR rep, Becky Templeton from Blends of Vino on board, Spokane can now discover the longing and desire of Anelare.

2007 Nonna Viola Red Wine

• The Stuff: 50% Syrah, 25%, Cab, 25% Merlot from Milbrandt, Gamache, and Goose Ridge vineyards, 292 cases, aged 22 months in new/used French/American oak, 13.9%abv
• The Swirl: Bright and young with black cherry color, moderately translucent and watery out toward the edges
• The Sniff: Tight nose with hints of cherry, perfume and traditional merlot cocoa
• The Sip: Pretty light and watery on the front palate that opens up to moderate cherry and plum fruit. The finish is mellow with a hint of pepper.
• The Score: At $24, I can score this a 3 minus (out of 5). The serious wine drinker may find themselves underwhelmed but if you’re looking for an easy drinking red blend, this may appeal to you.

Cellar Tracker Score – None for any vintage

2007 Saint Helena Syrah

• The Stuff: 100% Syrah from Gamache and Goose Ridge vineyards; 222 cases, 20 months in new/used French/American oak, 14.1%abv
• The Swirl: Dark blackberry plum color, opaque with good ruby color toward the edges
• The Sniff: A little evergreen tree with notes of black berry and hints of hot sulfer (indicating youthfulness)
• The Sip: A good presentation of dark fruit, slightly jammy but has good acidity on the back end to balance out the sweetness. Lacks typical spice found on some Syrah, contains a slight woodiness.
• The Score: At $28, I think this wine is a solid 3 (out of 5). Get the price down to $24 and it could move to a 3+

Cellar Tracker Scores – None for this vintage, but 1 for 2005 vintage (91 pts)

VISIT HERE for information about their tasting room hours

For more information about Anelare in Spokane contact rebecca@blendsofvino.com www.blendsofvino.com