Seattle Met Names Novelty Hill Januik Among Best Washington Wines

Washington wines critic extraordinaire Sean Sullivan has compiled his annual list of favorite Washington wines for Seattle Met magazine’s Sept. 2012 issue, and we’re pleased to be named to the list five times for the following wines, all currently available from the winery: 2009 Januik Cabernet Sauvignon and 2009 Novelty Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, both Columbia Valley; 2009 Januik Champoux Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon; 2010 Januik Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay and 2011 Novelty Hill Estate Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc.

Best Washington Wines: The 2012 List

Januik Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley 2009
Winemaker Mike Januik spent 10 years as head winemaker at Chateau Ste. Michelle before starting his eponymous winery in 1999. This is cabernet sauvignon at its most aromatic and rich with vanilla, cocoa, and dark cherry. 91 points — $30

Novelty Hill Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley 2009
Winemaker Mike Januik has a knack for making top-quality cabernet sauvignon at affordable prices. This appealing wine’s sweet cherry flavors are accented by vanilla, spice, and other oak notes. It’s a steal at this price. 91 points — $25

Januik Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Champoux Vineyard Horse Heaven Hills 2009
This rare 100 percent cabernet sauvignon from one of the state’s top vineyard sites is as structured as a drill team, with chalky tannins and restrained fruit flavors. It should last in the cellar as long as you care to hold it. 91 points — $55

Januik Chardonnay Cold Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley 2010
Though he left Ste. Michelle in 1999, winemaker Mike Januik continues to purchase grapes from the winery each year to produce this standout chardonnay. $30

 Novelty Hill Wines Sauvignon Blanc Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley 2011
Hailing from the winery’s estate vineyard, Stillwater Creek, this appealing sauv blanc is a riot of spices and tropical notes with a creamy feel on the tongue. $18