Taste the Terroir: Evergreen Riesling
At EFESTĒ, we’re dedicated to crafting wines that truly reflect their vineyard’s essence. Our Evergreen Riesling is a perfect example, capturing the unique character of the Evergreen Vineyard in the Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley AVA. Riesling often gets a bad rap for being overly sweet, but our Evergreen Riesling is designed to be drier and crisper, making it a versatile and easy-to-drink choice. With vibrant acidity and nuanced fruit flavors, it offers a balanced, complex taste that showcases the unique terroir of Washington State through every bottle.
Evergreen Vineyard
Evergreen Riesling is named after the Evergreen Vineyard in the Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley AVA, a key site for our Riesling production. This renowned vineyard benefits from a cooler climate due to its elevation and proximity to the Columbia River, which preserves bright acidity and crisp flavors. The silt loam soils, rich in calcium carbonate, contribute distinctive minerality, enhancing the wine’s complexity. The name “Evergreen” reflects the region’s enduring greenery and captures the essence of one of Washington’s most renowned vineyard sites.
Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley AVA
The Ancient Lakes AVA is a relatively new but highly respected wine region in Washington State. Its unique landscape, shaped by basalt cliffs and lakes formed by the Missoula Floods, offers an ideal terroir for Riesling. The cooler temperatures and well-drained soils allow the grapes to develop intense flavors while preserving their natural acidity, making this region a standout for Riesling cultivation.
The Winemaking Process
We’re committed to preserving the natural qualities of our grapes, which is why EFESTĒ Evergreen Riesling is fermented in 100% concrete. This approach enhances the wine’s texture and freshness without oak influence, allowing for gentle micro-oxygenation. As a result, the true character of the vineyard shines through, producing a crisp, nearly dry wine that beautifully showcases its vibrant fruit flavors and minerality.
What Makes a Riesling Sweet or Dry?
The sweetness or dryness of a Riesling is determined by the residual sugar left after fermentation. A wine becomes dry when all the grape sugars are converted into alcohol. Our Evergreen Riesling is crafted to be nearly dry, with just a touch of residual sugar to balance its bright acidity. This creates a refreshing and versatile wine that defies the typical sweetness associated with Riesling.
Tasting Notes
The 2022 Evergreen Riesling opens with enticing aromas of pear and subtle banana, followed by tropical notes of pineapple. Its mouthfeel is long and silky, with bright acidity that pairs well with a variety of dishes. The crisp finish and nuanced fruit flavors have made it a favorite among enthusiasts and critics alike.
Food Pairings
The bright acidity and fruit-forward profile of Evergreen Riesling make it an ideal companion for a wide range of dishes. It pairs beautifully with Asian cuisine, grilled seafood, and rich, creamy cheeses. Our team at EFESTĒ especially love the pairing of Evergreen Riesling with Papa’s Salsa as a dip or topping for meat and fish. Its versatility also makes it a fantastic choice for holiday meals, and with Thanksgiving just around the corner now is the perfect time to have some on hand!
Accolades and Recognition
Evergreen Riesling has consistently received praise and accolades, including:
2022: 91 points Gold IWC; 93 points from Owen Bargreen
2021: 90 points from International Wine Report; Best of Class, Gold at Cascadia Wine Competition
2020: 91 points from Owen Bargreen
2014: 90 points from Vinous; 91 points from Wine Enthusiast, and selected by Martha Stewart as a Thanksgiving pick
2013: Featured in Wine Enthusiast’s “Top 100 Wines”
These accolades highlight the outstanding quality and unique character of our Evergreen Riesling, solidifying its place as a standout in our collection.
Evergreen Riesling isn’t just a wine; it’s a true expression of the Ancient Lakes AVA’s unique terroir and our commitment to crafting wines with a story. Perfect for holiday celebrations or a relaxing evening at home, this wine delivers a refreshing and complex experience that highlights the best of Washington State’s vineyards.
Come visit our tasting rooms at EFESTĒ Woodinville or SoDo Seattle, or buy online to savor the vibrant flavors of Evergreen Riesling. Here’s to enjoying a wine as timeless and enduring as the vineyard it comes from!
