Positioned high atop one of Washington’s premier grape growing regions is Red Mountain’s Terra Blanca Winery. Sitting on 300 acres, the estate winery is known for big full bodied reds, crisp whites, and a unique selection of desert wines. Keith and ReNae Pilgrim have farmed Terra Blanca for two decades producing some highly acclaimed Syrah, Cabernet, Merlot, Riesling, Roussanne, and Chardonnay. Terra Blanca is one of the most beautiful spots in the state to enjoy wine with a majestic view, expansive tasting room, and manicured grounds overlooking the vineyards.

At 30,000 case production, Terra Blanca brings a long history of winemaking and energy to the tasting room and we are very honored to have them on board.

Meet Keith and ReNae Pilgrim

Terra Blanca began as the vision of owner/winemaker Keith Pilgrim. His passion for winemaking began early. As a child growing up in Fairfield, California, Keith frequented the Napa Valley on day trips with his parents in the mid-1970s. During that time, Napa was just becoming a center for wine production and Keith was able to draw inspiration from both the individuals who created Napa and the landscape itself.

Keith worked in vineyard/orchard management positions at a small winery near Fairfield. He continued to build a strong educational foundation in the wine industry by studying geology, enology, and viticulture at the University of California, Davis. A journey down a career path as a geologist allowed Keith to travel extensively, from Papua, New Guinea to eastern Washington and points in between.

As a winemaker Keith continues to experiment with new technologies and techniques, while still holding closely to the lessons of classic winemaking.

He and wife and business partner, ReNae, have two children. They are ardent supporters of the Children’s Development Center and work tirelessly on behalf of organizations that work to promote the health and welfare of young children.

The Wines at Nectar Tasting Room

2008 Sauvignon Blanc $14 – Refreshing aromas of quince, lemon and grapefruit lead to a dominant palate of lemon chiffon and hints of minerality. The firm acid structure leads to an extended bright clean finish of citrus.

2008 Riesling $14 – Inviting aromas of apricot, honey and pear lead to flavors of apricot, lemon honey and pear with notes of minerality on the palate. 2.1% residual sugar is well balanced by the bright acidity.

2007 Chardonnay $15 – 100% estate Chardonnay that spent approximately 36 months in 10% new French oak. Aromas of toasted green apples with hints of lemon and vanilla that lead to a concentration of pineapple, coconut and lemon.

2006 Merlot $20 – 94% Merlot and 6% Cabernet from Terra Blanca Estate. Opens with hints of cedar and spicy red fruit. Big, bright, juicy cherry and cloves on the front with a lingering finish of the same.

2006 Syrah $20 – 95% Syrah, 3% Viognier, 1% Roussanne – Made in the Cote Rotie style this Syrah spent 26 months in 40% new French oak and boasts aromas of raspberry and rose petals and subtle hints of smoke and leather.

2006 Malbec $28 – 100% Columbia Valley Malbec, Aromas of ripe cherry, plum and intense white pepper lead to a concentrated palate of candies raspberry and boysenberry.

2006 Cabernet Sauvignon $20 – 93% Cabernet and 7% Merlot from Terra Blanca estate vineyard. Subtle aromas of violets, strawberries and raspberry lead to darker notes of black cherry and plum. In the mouth the wine is full of blackberry, cassis and chocolate. Perfectly paired with flat iron steak and red wine reduction sauce.

2008 Late Harvest Chenin Blanc $14 – Tropical fruit salad in a glass is the best way to describe this 100% Cherry Hill vineyard wine (Yakima). 8.5% residual sugar with aromas of pear, peach and apricot. More tropical fruit and honey dominate the mouth. Dessert anyone?

2009 Late Harvest Riesling $14 – A perfect balance of sweetness and acidity make this a special dessert wine. A full palate of pear honey and peach lead to a crisp mineral and acidity finish.