Malbec Finds A Cozy Home In Washington State

After reading that their malbec got some some awards at a Pacific Northwest Competition, I was curious enough to get in contact with the owner/winemaker of Upland Winery Todd Newhouse. He was kind enough to send me a response and I wanted to share a couple of points with you, the reader.
I believe that in every aspect our world is a better place when there is diversity.  Diversity is what makes this country a place I love and respect. Diversity is what makes our life a little more interesting and enjoyable. Diversity is the key of a better future, both socially and economically.
I love malbec not matter where it comes from. Diversity is so much fun with malbec because it's very easy to tell the difference between Mendoza, or the Valle of Cafayate (Salta), or Patagonia, or Cahors in the SW of France, or Chile, or now Washington State (I haven't tried one from there). From a grape that fail so miserably in Bordeaux is quite an accomplishment.
There is no doubt in my mind that malbec is the grape of the future. It's the only red grape (with maybe Pinot Noir, but its wines are more expensive) that men and women alike can enjoy together at the same time. And doesn't matter if you are a beginner or an old wine connoisseur, with malbec wines there is always something for everyone. You could say it is a very "democratic wine". It appeals to everyone, and it is affordable. A pair of short ribs (U$ 4.50 a pound ), a tomato salad (U$ 1 a pound) and a Malbec for let's say U$15- U$20 and you have an unforgettable dinner.
But going back to Upland Winery's Todd Newhouse and his Washington State Malbec:

"...Our Malbec has a thick, fruity nose with so much going on that it is hard to pin-point but definately has plum, blackberry, and hints of coffee and chocolate which also translates to the palate. The tannins are definately there, but very well managed. Color is inky/dark. I can only compare it with a couple Mendoza wines that I have had and I think our Malbec is not quite as "big" as those (probably lower alcohol) but has more complexity with numerous stages from start to finish, and the finish on our Malbec is more elegant..."

The vineyards are located in a section of the Yakima Valley known as Snipes Mountain (elevation between 750 and 1300 feet) and Upland is the only grape growing winery in the area. 

"...Washington is absolutely perfect for Malbec.  No rainfall during the growing season and very hot summers.  You will be hearing a lot more about Malbecs from Washington in the future, I'm sure..."

Todd is very much optimistic about their future. Our best wishes to him and we hope to get soon Washington malbecs here in Southern Cal.  Salud Todd!

View Larger Map