Accolades
Praise for Forgeron Cellars
Critics, journalists and oenophiles alike have praised Forgeron Cellars, our wines and our process. From reviews of specific releases with tasting notes to in-depth articles on our winemaking and process, it's all good reading. Click on a broad category below to view press articles and accolades.
Forgeron Cellars
Sean P. Sullivan Extolls Virtues of Forgeron's Compelling Wines at a Value
" ...year after year French-born winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla keeps crafting compelling, well-priced wines using fruit from some of Washington's best vineyards."
Washington Women Winemakers Earn Elite Status, Says Table Talk Radio
"There’s another elite group of winemakers that continually grabs our attention vintage after vintage, and that’s the talented women of Washington wine."
Marie-Eve Weighs In on 2011 Harvest with Bellingham Herald's Dan Radil
"Despite the bizarre weather, the consensus among winemakers seems to be optimistic about this strange yet potentially wonderful vintage...Marie-Eve Gilla says to expect some very Euro-centric wines. 'White wines will likely be especially lush ... with the gentle temperatures allowing for the nuanced flavors to come through.' "
Consistency, experience and talent define winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla's niche in Washington Wine
"Among the most consistent, experienced and talented of this group is one of the nicest people in Washington wine, Marie-Eve Gilla"
'Forgeron Cellars Wines Prove Unforgettable' Says Bellingham Writer
"Her winemaking style...strikes a balance between the classic reserved qualities of France's Burgundy region...and the varied growing regions of more intensely flavored grapes in Eastern Washington, which she uses to make her wines."
Coeur d'Alene Reviewer Extolls Balance, Complexity in Forgeron Cellars' Wines
"Marie-Eve Gilla['s]... wine has that oft-sought but seldom achieved balance of flavors and layers."
Vertical Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting with Paul Gregutt Reveals Focus and Consistency
"What shone through was the classic, well-defined, consistent winemaking style, one that allowed for vintage expression and yet kept a tight focus on wines with – well – a tight focus...All the wines were drinking soundly and none were even close to going over the hill."
Marie-Eve Gilla's Entrepreneurial, Free Spirit Inspires Writer Rob Bhatt on his Blog
"The words themselves seem to echo the type of sentiments that you might hear from many of the free-spirited entrepreneurs that make up Washington’s wine industry, but Gilla’s native Burgundian accent give them a unique lilt—just one of her distinguishing features..."
Jay Miller Honors Winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla with High Praises
"Part-owner/winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla appears to be on top of her game."
Honorable Mention from Washington Tasting Room Magazine
Love Boushey Vineyards, you wont want to miss our 2009 Ambiance, and our 100% Boushey Syrah from 2007!
Favorable Mention from Full Pull Wines
"There is much to love about Forgeron Cellars, but perhaps nothing sets the heart aflutter more than their release schedule." Paul Zitarelli, Full Pull Wines, January 2011
The Oregon Wine Blog: We're on the Air for Washington Wine
"Marie Eve marries her old world education in Dijon with the fruit and potential of Washington wine in away that gives her wine personality, elegance, and in many cases, grace."
Women Tasting Wine at Jackalope Grill
Chef Tim made some fabulous pairing dishes for Forgeron's Wines. We are all very jealous Anne was the only one who got to attend the dinner for Forgeron.
It's Wine O'Clock Somewhere!
"One of our favorite wines from Forgeron Cellars is the 2003 Vinfinity, an elegant, layered wine that is a beauty."
Judging the age-worthiness of wine is tricky business
"One sure way to find out if a wine has aged well is to drink it. And recent tastings confirm that even Washington whites can hold up."
An Evening with Forgeron Cellars
Thoughtful, elegant, fantastic, and fabulous each wine conveys a focused expression of Washington's terroir.
Walla Walla Washington Vineyard Tours
It is titled Vineyard Tours, but the article covers a good amount of any entertainment winery related.
Interview with Marie-Eve Gilla of Forgeron Cellars
Chicago Pinot 2.0 interviews Marie-Eve about marketing and her recent trip to Chicago.
Forgeron Cellars, a Wine Bloggers Conference highlight!
"...spicy apple and tropical notes co-mingling with a tangy fresh acidity and a nice finish of fruit and lingering minerality."
Winery’s sensory class teaches how to taste
"The whole idea is to show that everybody's threshold is different to different substances,"
One Rich Wine Guy: Forgeron Cellars at Wildhorse
Chardonnay is Marie Eve's flagship wine. She is truly a virtuoso with this grape. The 2007 is what I believe to be one of her best ever.
The Winos - Washington Wine and Charity, Forgeron Cellars
"Why do you think wine and charity go so well together?" Our first winemaker, Marie-Eve Gilla from Forgeron Cellars, took time from her very busy life to share her thoughts.
Up-and-Coming Wine Region, Walla Walla Valley, Washington
"We love Forgeron Cellars" Sunset Magazine
About the Winery & Winemaker
The petite, soft-spoken French ex-pat is a winemaking force to be reckoned with.
Seattle Times. Wine Advisor
Paul Gregutt pays small tribute to Marie-Eve's past winemaking experience.
Washington Wine Report: Forgeron Cellars
The results speak for themselves and demonstrate why Gilla is one of the best winemakers in Walla Walla Valley. NB: Forgeron Cellars 2005 Zinfandel also came in second in our 2008 Reader Survey.
Touring and Tasting Review of Forgeron
Contracting with vineyards strategically located across the Yakima, Columbia, and Walla Walla Valleys, Forgeron Cellars focuses on producing true varietal wines.
Forgeron Tasting Room Review
"Your wines were delicious, your staff hysterical and knowledgeable"
Europe's Own Land Of The Free
Marie-Eve moved to Washington, and washed my share of barrels again at Covey Run, but they promoted me to cellar master, then assistant winemaker, then winemaker in the next four years.
Is Walla Walla "the next Napa Valley"
winemakers Caleb Foster, Chuck Reininger, Brett Isenhower and Marie-Eve Gilla have become the talk of the wine community.
Vintage Walla Walla, 2009
Marie makes the Wine Peep's weekend one to remember
Women of Washington Wine: Marie-Eve Gilla of Forgeron Cellars
Realizing the incredible potential of the wine industry in the Pacific Northwest, she stayed, helped found Forgeron Cellars
RatingBest Small Town
Sunset Magazine: Best Small Towns
Being one of the few wineries mentioned within the article shows us to be a can't miss winery in Walla Walla.
Highlighting Female Winemakers of Washington
As it is, her name has been espoused by those who compare Walla Walla to the next Napa!
Women winemakers of Walla Walla
Women winemakers of Walla Walla are working the dirt and pushing the bar with passion.
Doing it the French way
With little fanfare, she has been developing vineyard sources, fine-tuning her winemaking and making excellent Euro-styled wines.
Warm, Welcoming Walla Walla Valley
You are just as likely to find her tromping through the vineyards as you are to find her sampling the barrels. The hard work shows in the bottle.
I tasted my way through Walla Walla
Forgeron Cellars, one of the strongest of the new wineries, and where chardonnay is the star attraction.
The French Touch Some very nice tipples among the wheat fields
although she is pleased with many of the wines she has made so far, especially a red blend called “Vinfinity”, she prefers to look five or ten years ahead.
Atlantic City Wine Director shares Favorite Washington Wines
Beautiful aromatics with syrah-like fruit along with some currants. Flavors are more berries and some bell peppers.
Marie-Eve at ease
Marie-Eve's work requires her to tap into all of her individual resources-sensitivity, scientific acuity, artistry, ingenuity and business sense.
The Global A-List
Forgeron Cellars named one of the 20 Best New Wineries in the World.
Ambiance
Rating+ (Good)
Washington Wine Report on 2009 Ambiance
"Light in color. Pleasing notes of spice and apple, toast, and floral notes. Crisp and tart on the palate." -Sean P. Sullivan
RatingWine of the Week
Table Talk Radio Reviews 2010 Ambiance
"...an exotic blend of Grenache Blanc, Marsanne and Orange Muscat, with layers of citrus, melon and spice flavors."
Rating18.5+/20 Points
Rand Sealey Reviews 2010 Ambiance
" ...a lovely, aromatic "Rhone-style" white. It displays a brilliant gold color and an exotic nose of pear, peach, muskmelon, acacia flowers, honeysuckle and orange blossoms...The sheer delight of this wine gets it a plus. "
Rand Sealey, Review of Washington Wines, January 2012
Rating89
Wine Enthusiast reviews 2009 Ambiance
"...it’s vividly framed by fresh acidity and citrus rind."
Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast, September 2011
2009 Ambiance Wows Bellingham Writer
"I was absolutely floored by this blend...honeydew melon and brioche up front gracefully melt into a rich, viscous mouthful of ripe peach."
Dan Radil, Bellingham Herald, August 2011
Rating18+/20 Points
Rand Sealey Reviews Forgeron's 2009 Ambiance
"The white fruit compote flavors are well extracted, with touches of mandarin orange peel, minerals and grape skin, followed by a squeeze of citrus on the finish."
Rand Sealey, Review of Washington Wines, March 2011
Anvil Red
Wine Press Northwest 07 Review: NV Anvil Red
Three vintages make this blend of Merlot, Cab and Syrah that opens with red fruit, leather and mince meat.
Wine Press Northwest 06 Review: NV Anvil Red
Marie-Eve Gilla makes this wine for special occasions with friends, then prices it for everyday drinking.
Barbera
Rating88
Wine Enthusiast Reviews 2007 Barbera
"It’s well-built, the fruit nicely matched to the French oak..." -Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast, April 2011
Blacksmith
RatingGood
Washington Wine Report Reviews 2008 Blacksmith Merlot
" A moderately aromatic wine with spice, cedar, and red currant. The palate is broad with soft tannins and silky fruit flavors."
RatingExcellent
2010 Blacksmith Chardonnay Outstanding Value, says Washington Wine Report
"An aromatic offering of Chardonnay with toasty spices, almond butter, whiffs of tropical fruit, and tangerine... An outstanding value at $15."
RatingExcellent
2009 Blacksmith Syrah Proves Excellent Value, says Washington Wine Report
"The palate is soft and gauzy with dark fruit flavors. Lingers on the finish. A huge value at $15."
Pacific Northwest Wines reviews 2008 Blacksmith Merlot
"...offers excellent quality and plenty of the character expected from more expensive bottlings... rich with black cherry flavors and smoky cedar on the finish. A good buy for your holiday entertaining."
Rating89- Best Buy
Wine Enthusiast Reviews 2008 Blacksmith Syrah
"...far more depth and subtlety than many wines twice as expensive." -Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast, April 2011
Rating87 - Best Buy
Wine Enthusiast Praises 2009 Blacksmith Pinot Noir As Solid Value
"The berry flavors have a creamy wrap, a suggestion of vanilla, a lick of cinnamon. All good." -Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast, 2011
RatingDouble Gold
Blacksmith Syrah Earns Double Gold at Seattle Wine Awards
Blacksmith Syrah, Double Gold Award - Seattle Wine Awards, 2011Cabernet Sauvignon
Rating* (Excellent)
Washington Wine Report Reviews 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
"Very pretty, appealing aromas of spice, dark cherry, and chocolate. The palate is loaded with silky fruit flavors and grainy tannins."
Rating18.5/20 Points
Rand Sealy Reviews Forgeron's 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
"The mouth filling flavors are true to variety...notes of squeezed berries, baking spices, fine fruit acids and satiny, chewy tannins."
RatingBronze Medal
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Medals at the Cabernet Classic in Seattle
Forgeron Cellars celebrates earning 3rd place--and a Bronze Medal-- at the 2011 Cabernet Classic to Benefit Rotary First Harvest food bank.
Rating90
The Wine Advocate Reviews 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
"Notes of cedar, spice box, violets, black cherry cola..."
Rating91 Points - Editor's Choice
Supple and sultry 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon well received by Wine Enthusiast
Smooth, fruity, flavorful, soft and balanced, it finishes with lightly grainy tannins that are as supple as leather.
Cabernet Classic 2nd Place Winner
With so many Cabernets all in one place Forgeron Cellars is very happy to anounce that we have tied for Second Place in the 100% Cabernet Category with our heavenly 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon.
Rating91 Points- "Cellar Selection"
Wine Enthusiast Review - 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
'Dried herbs and sweet grain highlights add complexity, and the mix of vineyards (Pepper Bridge, Klipsun, and Alder Ridge) brings the best characteristics of three different AVAs into play.' Wine Enthusiast, November 2010, Paul Gregutt
RatingQPR 4 out of 5
2009 Cabernet Classics: The Recap
2005 Forgeron Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $30, QPR: 4
2004 Forgeron Cellars Champoux Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Horse Heaven Hills, $46, QPR: 5
Rating98
Just Wine Points: Score 98
Rating43
Seattle Times, Top 100 Wines
Rating92
Wine Enthusiast Review: 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Score: 92 "It's beautifully integrated, with the tannins substantial but polished" Paul Gregutt.
RatingSilver Medal
San Francisco Wine International Competition
WineLoversPage.com
"This deep ruby wine gives off intense aromas of black fruit, oak spice and dark chocolate. Full in the mouth with bright acidity."
Wine Squire Review: 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
"You just want to drink it again and again."
RatingSilver Medal
The Tasting Panel reviews 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
"Structured, rich and juicy with racy acidity; good balance; long and stylish.”
Cabernet-Sauvignon (Champoux)
Full Pull Offer Acrhive for 2004 Champoux Cabernet Sauvignon
"layers of flavors that unfolded over the palate from attack to midpalate to finish; there was black fruit, blue fruit, minerals, coffee, earth, smoke, tropical fruits; and the mouthfeel was liquid silk"
Rating2nd Place
Ray's Boathouse 23rd Annual Retrospective of Northwest Wines Competition and Dinner
Forgeron Cellars' 2004 Champoux Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon placed 2nd.
Rating#1 Wine of the Year
Washington Wine Report's 2009 Wines of the Year
this was a wine that literally brought all conversation to a stop. From one of Washington's finest vineyards and one of its finest winemakers.
Washington Wine Report: 2009 Reader Survey Wine of the Year
Although not surprised we were excited to have Forgeron Cellars 2004 Champoux Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon make it to the finals for Wine of the Year.
RatingQPR 5 out of 5
2009 Cabernet Classis: The Recap
2004 Forgeron Cellars Champoux Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Horse Heaven Hills, $46, QPR: 5
2005 Forgeron Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $30, QPR: 4
Rating94
Wine Advocate Score 94
Elegantly-styled, layered, complex, and savory, it will benefit from 3-5 years of cellaring and drink well through 2024.
King Cabernet
Placed next to many more expensive bottles our 2004 Champoux Cabernet Sauvignon was recomended in the King Cabernet article in the Mid Columbian.
RatingOutstanding
Fab Cabs of the Pacific Northwest
It opens with complex aromas of minerals, pencil shavings, blackberries and pie cherries, followed by elegant flavors of blackberries, red-toned fruit and hints of chocolate.
Wine of the Weekend Award
It is a wine so good one loses all discretion upon first sip. A superb, breathtaking effort by winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla.
Cabernet Sauvignon (Klipsun)
Rating94-97 points
Wine Advocate's Jay Miller Reviews 2008 Kipsun Cabernet Sauvignon
"One of the finest Cabernets I have tasted from Washington..." -Jay Miller
Cabernet-Sauvignon (Pepper Bridge)
RatingSilver Medal
North West Wine Summit, Summer 2006
2003 Pepper Bridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Silver Medal Winner.
Chardonnay
Rating* (Excellent)
Washington Wine Report Reviews 2009 Vigneron Select Chardonnay
"An appealing, expressive wine with peach, pear, and melon flavors accented by silky oak spices."
The Wine Advocate Reviews 2009 Vigneron Select Chardonnay
"...a creamy-textured, spicy, nicely-proportioned Chardonnay with a firm acid structure."
Rating91- Editor's Choice
2009 Vigneron Select Chardonnay Scores High with Wine Enthusiast
" ...a hint of heat in the finish, but the wine delivers a good long ride across the heart of the palate." 91 points - Editor's Choice
Rating90 points - Top 20 WA White Wines
Seattle Met Recognizes 2009 Vigneron Select Chardonnay as "Top 20" Washington White Wines
"... includes 2 percent orange muscat to lift the aromatics."
2009 Chardonnay Perfectly Fuses of Old and New World Styles
"Warm, tropical fruits of mango and pineapple are balanced by the crisper, brighter acidity of pear, green melon and citrus."
Dan Radil, Bellingham Herald, August 16, 2011
RatingTop 5 Chardonnays
Seattle Met debunks "White Lies" about Washington Chardonnays, Praises Forgeron
"The fruit comes from vineyards across the state, helping to create a complexity rarely seen at this price point." -Sean P. Sullivan
Rating91
2008 Chardonnay, Vigneron Select scores with Wine Enthusiast
"Complex and nuanced... this could be cellared for another five or six years." -P.G.
Rating18.5/20
18.5/ 20 points- Forgeron's 2009 Chardonnay earns high praise from Rand Sealy of Review of Washington Wines
".. this brilliant gold-colored wine offeres lovely aromas of pear, peach, apple blossoms and acacia flower..."
Rand Sealey, Review of Washington Wines, April 2011
Rating18.5/20 Points
Rand Sealey - Review of Washington Wines on Forgeron's 2008 Chardonnay
"..brilliant gold color with attractive aromas of pear, peach, apple blossoms, acacia flowers and subtle smoke..."
Rand Sealey, Review of Washington Wines, January 2011
The Oregon Wine Blog, on Forgeron's 2008 Chardonnay
"this Chardonnay is indeed beautiful. It's crisp and bright and even a bit floral but it really fills the mouth well with a great finish."
2008 Chardonnay wins over "Table Talk" for Holiday Meal Pairings
"I'm telling ya, this is one of the best Washington Chardonnays I've had"
Yashar Shayan, Table Talk, October 2010
Through The Walla Walla Grape Vine
"Assertive apple and peach aromas lead to a mouthful of dense and creamy flavors."
Tasting Our Way Through The Kitsap Wine Festival
"There was a good balance between the crispness, or acidity of the wine, and its barrel flavors. This is definitely a food-friendly wine."
2007 Chardonnay one of the 100 Best Washington Wines
"She accomplishes this task masterfully with this delicious wine."
Pike and Western Wine Shop Reviews 2007 Chardonnay
This is a deliciously rich, gluttonous bottle of wine, full of toasty vanilla, creamy butter, baked pears and baked apples. It's soft, it's smooth and eager to please.
Rating90 Points
Wine Spectator 2007 Chardonnay Review
Harvey Steiman review of Forgeron's 2007 Chardonnay - "Bright and refreshing, this shapely wine has a silky texture under its pear, peach and citrus flavors, finishing spicy and buttery. Drink now through 2014"
The Forgeron Cellars 2007 Chardonnay, no Château two by four!
Drink now and often! A very good wine and at a moderate price point. Pairs wonderfully and easily with many food items, but it especially cries out for seafood pairing of sauteed scallops and clams or with a big hearty bowl of chowder and a piece of sourdough bread.
Cuvee Corner Wine Blog
"I really enjoyed the notes of spicy apple and tropical notes co-mingling with a tangy fresh acidity and a nice finish of fruit and a lingering minerality."
More Versatile Chardonnays
This superb Chardonnay is gentle on the pocketbook for a meticulously crafted, barrel-fermented wine that can stand alone or serve as a great accompaniment to rich fish or chicken from the grill.
RatingBest Chardonnay
Best Chardonnay!
"A wine with a soft spiciness and great balance: Spiced apple and pear flavors and a lingering finish round out this delicious wine."
Wine Enthusiast Review: 2006 Chardonnay
"The fruit is solidly anchored in citrus, pear and peach. Lovely balance and fullness throughout." 92 Points
RatingSilver Medal
San Francisco Wine International Competition
Silver Medal - 2006 Forgeron Cellars Chardonnay
Northwest Palette Review: 2004 Chardonnay
Clean, toasty aroma also offers citrus and apple highlights…flavors of toast and apple fruit, complemented by a bright citrus note
Wine Enthusiast Review: 2005 Chardonnay
2005 Chardonnay Columbia Valley, 90 Points
Rating90
The Wine Advocate Review: 2005 Chardonnay
"Supple-textured, it has layers of ripe fruit, crisp acidity, and excellent balance." 90 Points
Seattle Times Review: 2005 Chardonnay
Fresh, ripe citrus and green apple flavors are crisp and penetrating. It is a well-made Washington take on a good village Burgundy.
National Women's Wine Competition
Gold Medal winner National Women’s Wine Competition, March 2007
Seattle Times Review: 2004 Chardonnay
"The Washington wine industry is beginning to speak with a French accent"
Stephen Tanzer
“Melon, stone fruits and lemon peel on the nose and the palate. Supple and spicy in the mouth, with a complicating note of dusty stone."
Wines Northwest Review: 2004 Chardonnay
“Winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla has a wonderful touch with Chardonnay."
Wine Enthusiast Review: 2004 Chardonnay
“Nice citrus and apple flavors wrap into a wine that is fresh, crisp and penetrating” 90 Points
Food & Wine Magazine Review: 2004 Chardonnay
“Finely honed Chardonnay, this combines fine minerals with smooth oak and hefty baked apple and tropical fruit flavors”
Wine Press Northwest Review: 2004 Chardonnay
“Lemon, pear and pineapple greet that palate, backed by wisps of mineral, spice and toast”
Gewürztraminer
Seattle Weekly Review: 2005 Late Harvest Gewürztraminer
"A wine that could get you drunk on aromatics alone"
RatingGold Medal
Wines Of Washington Festival
2005 Late Harvest Gewürztraminer - Gold Medal
Klipsun Merlot
Rating91+
The Wine Advocate Reviews 2007 Klipsun Merlot
"...a medium to full-bodied, structured, potentially complex Merlot with savory flavors, ripe tannins, and a lengthy finish."
Rating91
Wine Enthusiast reviews 2004 Klipsun Merlot
"Dark, dense and lush with rock, cracked pepper, Bing cherries, streaks of spice and mocha..." -Paul Gregutt
Forgeron 2004 Klipsun Merlot as another Full Pull Offer
"...experience the purity of black-cherry fruit and the hints of mineral, tar, and tobacco." Paul Zitarelli, Full Pull Wines, January 2011
Rating#75
Paul Gregutt Top 100 Wines
Forgeron Cellars Klipsun Merlot found its home at #75 of Paul Gregutt's Top 100 Wines.
RatingBronze Medal
Renaud Society Blind Wine Competition Medal Winner
Forgeron Cellars 2004 Merlot Klipsun Vineyard Red Mountain - Bronze Medal
Rating92
Wine Advocate Score 92
"Medium to full-bodied, on the palate it exhibits a smooth texture, excellent depth and grip, plenty of savory fruit, and some incipient complexity."
Wine Advocate, November 2009, Robert Parker
Late Harvest Semillon
Rating#18 out of 100 Top Wines
Top 100 Washington Wines - #18 Forgeron Late Harvest Semillon
Forgeron's 2008 Late Harvest Semillon was placed by Paul Gregutt at #18 out of 100 Top Washington Wines!!
Rating94 Points
Wine Enthusiast Review - 2008 Late Harvest Semillon
"Dense yet retaining its acid-driven structure, it's a rich, seemingly endless dive into a vat of sweet nectar."
Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast Online, November 2010
Standout Washington wines offer good value
"Forgeron 2008 Late Harvest Sémillon. A thick, honeyed wine, loaded with flavors of dried apricots, peaches and papaya. A rich, seemingly endless dive into a vat of sweet nectar." Paul Gregutt, Seattle Times - Wine Advisor, September 18th, 2010
Marsanne
Rating88
2009 Marsanne - Nov. 2010 Wine Enthusiast Review
"...a fine example of pure Washington Marsanne and a wine that should improve over the next few years."
2009 Marsanne Review on WineCow.com
"...nose of almonds, bush herbs, lemon-melon, and from 53 degrees, a pleasant peach liqueur and yellow melon."
The Oregon Wine Blog, on Forgeron Marsanne
"The floral elements and the bright fruit flavors had us both muttering compliments between tastes that included "absolutely beautiful" and "fantastic.""
Merlot
Rating18.5/20 Points
Rand Sealey Reviews 2008 Merlot
"The true to variety flavors are redolent of dark roasted fruits, cocoa powder, licorice, cola and coffee bean."
Rand Sealey, Review of Washington Wines, January 2012
Rating90+ points
The Wine Advocate Reviews 2008 Merlot
"Notes of balsam wood, Asian spices, violets, cassis, and black currant compose the boquet of this structured, medium-bodied, elegant Merlot." 90+ Points
Rating90
2006 Merlot- Wine Enthusiast Review
"...black fruits, dark toast, smoke and a vein of roasted espresso running through the finish.
2005 Merlot Review from Full Pull Wines
"A core of mint- and mineral-tinged black cherries is framed by integrated-oak notes of espresso and dark chocolate. The purity and clarity are noteworthy here; this is a ringing bell of Merlot."
Rating91 Points
Wine Enthusiast Review - 2005 Merlot
'The style is deep, dark, laced with graphite, and definitely built for long term cellaring.'
Wine Enthusiast, November 2010, Paul Gregutt
Through the Walla Walla Grape Vine™
"It was dense, with concentrated dark berries and more dark cocoa and spice to follow, while all along leaving a silky mouth feel."
Rating90
Wine Enthusiast Review: 2003 Merlot
Dense and beautifully concentrated, this nicely aged, 100% Merlot opens with round plum, cassis and black cherry fruit
The Wine Advocate Review: 2004 Merlot
it has a plush texture, good depth, and spicy red and black fruits. With light tannins and a long, pure finish,
Northwest Palette Review: 2002 Merlot
“The juicy berry-filled finish would well complement a juicy pan-seared pepper steak”
Tri Cities Herald Review: 2002 Merlot
Incredibly, the palate mirrors the aromatics, focusing on the cherries with a finesse that carries through to a rich and delicious finish. Rated “Outstanding”
Decanter Magazine Review: 2002 Merlot
"The climate aids the stunning quality of Walla Walla Merlot and they’re gaining a reputation for their cellar-worthiness and incredible acidity and balance."
Seattle Times Review: 2001 Merlot
"Beautifully aged, drinking perfectly, this supple, sexy merlot includes Klipsun, Boushey and Conner Lee fruit."
Food & Wine Magazine Review: 2001 Merlot
Forgeron's 2001 Merlot is “an exceptionally smooth mingling of black cherry, vanilla and cocoa flavors.”
Merlot (Boushey)
The Wine Advocate: 2004 Boushey Merlot
2004 Merlot, Boushey Vineyard Yakima Valley: 90 Points
National Women's Wine Competition
2004 Boushey Vineyard Merlot - Bronze Medal
Seattle Times "Top 100 Washington Wines"
2004 Boushey Vineyard Merlot: Ranked 67
Orange Muscat
Rating90
Wine Enthusiast Review - 2008 Orange Muscat
90 Points! "fortified to just under 18% alcohol. It's reminiscent of Benedictine & Brandy - orange liqueur with some alcohol power. Nice focus and balance."
Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast Online, November 2010
Petit Verdot
Rating18.5+/20 Points
Rand Sealey Reviews 2007 Petit Verdot
"Deep purple colored, it emits a rich, spicy nose of blackberry, marionberry, black cherry, cassis and gunflint, with intriguing scents of wild roses, hibiscus and sandalwood... For its seductive exoticism, this get a plus."
Rand Sealey, Review of Washington Wines, January 2012
Primitivo
Rating18.5 out of 20 Points
Rand Sealey - Review of Washington Wines on Forgeron Primitivo
"brilliant ruby color and rich, spicy aromas of raspberry, blackberry, fig and smoky earth. The flavors are medium-heavy weight, oozing with macerated semi-dried berries."
Rand Sealey, Review of Washington Wines, January 2011
Rating92
Wine Enthusiast Review - 2007 Primitivo
"Dark and musky, lightly earthy and soft, it's a luscious bottle which blankets the tongue with rustic (in a good way) black fruits and exotic spices. Rare and wonderful."
Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast Online, November 2010
Roussanne
Seattlemag.com Review: 2008 Roussanne
Winemaker Marie-Eve Gilla's spicy Roussanne is a very elegant food wine.
Syrah
Rating* (Excellent)
Washington Wine Report Reviews 2007 Syrah
"Mineral, light smoke, chocolate, spice, blueberry, and light earth notes. The palate is rich and opulent with a dense core of fruit and a velvety texture."
Rating91 points
The Wine Advocate Reviews 2008 Syrah
"The flavors are ripe and succulent, the wine's balance impeccable." 91 Points
Rating91
2001 Syrah delivers the goods, says Wine Enthusiast
"...[T]his is quintessential Washington Syrah. It simply delivers, in spades, everything you want..."
Rating18.5/20 Points
Rand Sealey - Reviews Forgeron's 2007 Syrah
"The dark fruit flavors are well saturated, with undertones of scorched earth, minerals, dark chocolate and licorice."
Rand Sealey, Review of Washington Wines, March 2011
100 Best Washington Wines - 2005 Syrah
"at $30 it's a high-value way to see what makes Boushey bottles so distinctive. Nose is marked by light berries, pepper, and game along with a healthy dose of chocolate and earth."
2005 Columbia Valley Syrah
Wine Review from Chuck Hill: The wine’s color of dark violet-ruby is a clue to the upcoming rich aromas and flavors.
Valentine's Day Tips from the Walla Walla Union Bulletin
"Syrah can complement hearty stews, or grilled and braised meats, and is delicious paired with chocolate"
RatingTop 100
Seattle Times Review: 2003 Syrah
Seattle Times Review: 2003 Syrah
Paul Gregutt’s Top 100 Washington State Wines For 2007, Seattle Times, December 18 2007
Wines Northwest Review: 2003 Syrah
Marie-Eve Gilla worked her magic with Syrah grapes from several vineyards throughout the Columbia Valley and created a wine that shows power with restraint and finishes with impeccable structure.
Wine Enthusiast Review: 2003 Syrah
just the right mix of citrus, pepper, smoke, spice, acid, toast and tannin.
Rating91
Wine Enthusiast Review: 2003 Syrah
This wine has just the right mix of citrus, pepper, smoke, spice, acid, toast and tannin
Seattle Post Intelligencer Review: 2003 Syrah
This is a great wine for the hearty fare we begin craving this time of year.
Seattle Times Review: 2003 Syrah
Pure syrah, fragrant and loaded with spice, this has a lovely mix of citrus, pepper, smoke, spice, acid, toast and tannin
Washington Ceo Magazine Review: 2003 Syrah
Best of Washington Wines 2007
Wine Lover
This is a lush, fruity wine with soft tannins. Nice meaty aromas and flavors are augmented by blackberries and blueberries, finishing seamlessly.
Dallas Morning News Review: 2002 Syrah
2002 Columbia Valley Syrah: Silver Medal
Wine Review Online Review: 2002 Syrah
This extremely impressive wine packs a real punch, with very deep flavors based on dark fruit notes.
Sante Magazine Review: 2002 Syrah
“Elegant and full bodied with aromas of rich red and black fruit, toasty oak, vanilla and coconut plus lush flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate.”
San Francisco Chronicle Review: 2002 Syrah
“Tasty nose with smoky meat, earth and mineral notes: blackberry, plum, licorice, dried herb and spice flavors. Finishes with sweet vanilla oak and firm acidity”
Syrah (Boushey)
RatingGold Medal
2004 Boushey Syrah gets a Sexy Syrah Gold at Salty's
The 2004 Boushey Syrah received a Gold medal in the 100% Syrah category. 40 Northwest Wineries all showing off their best Syrahs to be tasted by 20 hand picked Judges, and of course the many people attending the event.
Red Wines Scoring between 9 - 9.5
Rating3rd place overall of 51
8th Annual Sexy Syrah, Medal Winner!
The 2004 Boushey Syrah does a wonderful job of showing what this vineyard can do with syrah.
Syrah (Les Collines)
Rating19/20 points
Rand Sealy Reviews 2008 Les Collines Syrah
"Deep ruby colored, it offers an intense nose of raspberries, blackberries, black currants, dried roses, lavender and smoldering incense."
-Rand Sealy, Review of Washington Wines, November 2011
Rating93 points
The Wine Advocate Dubs 2008 Les Collines Syrah Gripping, Concentrated
"..it displays outstanding grip, mouth-coating flavors and superb length."
-The Wine Advocate, September 2011
93 Points
Walla Walla Valley showcased beautifully by 2008 Les Collines Syrah
"Nose: blackberry, smoky game, spicy, earthy, with hint of lavender. Taste: dark concentrated fruit, floral cassis, exotic spice. Vineyard: 100% Les Collines"
2008 Les Collines Syrah Woos the Palate with Intense Flavors
"...compact, intense flavors of dark berry, cassis, bittersweet cocoa and a hint of black pepper."
Dan Radil, The Bellingham Herald, August 16th, 2011
Vinfinity
Rating* (Excellent)
Washington Wine Report Reviews 2007 Vinfinity
"Appealing aromas of mocha, cherry, and spice. The palate is tart, tight, and flavorful with firm tannins and elegant fruit flavors."
Rating90 points
Wine Enthusiast Reviews 2007 Vinfinity Reserve
"A true Bordeaux-style blend very dark in color, aroma, and flavor, with black cherry and cassis fruit dominating."
-Paul Gregutt, Wine Enthusiast, September 2011
Rating93 points
The Wine Advocate Reviews 2007 Vinfinity
93 Points
"Medium-bodied, elegant and intensely flavored, it conceals enough fine-grained tannin to merit another 5-6 years of cellaring."
Rating91 points - #93 of 100
2007 Vinfinity among top 100 Washington Wines
"The palate is loaded with red fruit flavors and grippy, chalky tannins."
Rating19/20
19/20 points- 2007 Vinfinity earns high marks with Rand Sealy
"The ripe red fruit flavors are wrapped around a deep core, and spread out into a mouth-encompassing palate that is mixed with notes of black licorice, dark chocolate, French roast and mocha."
Local Columnist Review: 2002 Vinfinity
Marie-Eve’s passion brings to the consumer a wonderful plushy red wine laden with millions of chocolate ribbons dripping in spice and berries – definitely a wine to watch for!
Northwest Palette Review: 2002 Vinfinity
a spicy, toasty nose, a palate bursting with black cherry fruit, and a lingering, balanced finish.
RatingRecommended
Wine Press Northwest Review: 2002 Vinfinity
“This blend of Cab, Merlot and Syrah offers dusty cherries and strawberry-rhubarb notes. Try with duck confit or Beef Bourguignon.”
RatingSilver Medal
Northwest Wine Summit Review: 2002 Vinfinity
Northwest Wine Summit, Summer 2006
RatingRecommended
Wine Press Northwest Review: 2001 Vinfinity
“Intense nose of blackberries, cassis and notes of licorice. Focused and cuts an almost laser-like line across the palate”
Waldeaux Smithie
Chuck Hill Wine Review of the Walldeaux Smithie
"complex character on both nose and palate with cherry and floral perfume leading to flavors of earthy plum and cranberry."
Wino Magazine Online
"Yum, juicy, thick, tasty, value" Dave Bender
Rating87 Points average over 7 reviews
Cellar Tracker Review
87 points: Great house wine from Forgeron Cellars. medium body, tastes of dark cherry, spice and medium tannins.
RatingBest Bordeaux - Style Red Blend
Best Bordeaux-Style Red Blend
An excellent value, this is full of plum and deep cherry flavors and shows fresh acidity. All this is set against a backbone of soft tannins.
Seattle Metropolitan Review: NV Waldeaux Smithie
This beauty shows what good winemakers can do when they have the flexibility to blend many grape varieties from distinct vintages into one bottle.
Walldette
RatingWine of the Week, "Outstanding"
2009 Walldette Wins "Wine of the Week" with Wine Press Northwest
" ... [A] stunning white wine with stirring aromas of starfruit, butterscotch, toffee, anise and a whisper of campfire smoke."
Rating88
Walldette NV- Nov. 2010 Wine Enthusiast Review
"...[A] fresh, snappy wine with crisp green apple and pineapple fruit flavor lightly kissed with butterscotch from the barrel aging"
Paul Gregutt Wine of the Week - Walldette
"The snappy fruit reaches from green apple into light tropical, and there is even a lick of butterscotch in the refreshing finish."
Zinfandel
Rating19/20 points
Rand Sealy Reviews 2007 Zinfandel
"...deep garnet color and a spicy, peppery nose of blackberry, cherry, dried orange peel and cassis, with whiffs of spiced incense and burnt brambles."
-Rand Sealy, Review of Washington Wines, November 2011
2007 Zinfandel Stuns Bellingham Writer with Syle and Elegance
"...dense and concentrated, with notes of blackberry and black cherry, along with a whisper of spice and dark chocolate."
Dan Radil, The Bellingham Herald, August 16, 2011
Rating92 points
2006 Zinfandel- Nov. 2010 Wine Enthusiast Review
"A candidate for the best Zinfandel in Washington..."
The Oregon Wine Blog, on Forgeron Zinfandel
"I have said it on Twitter and I'll say it again here: her Zinfandel is one of my top two wine discoveries of 2010."
2006 Zinfandel Review by Chuck Hill
"...lip-smacking black cherry, blackberry, plummy, ripe fig, raisiny contributions. Full tilt wines require full tilt foods..."
The Spokesman Review: Washington Zins make a Splash
For the first time it's made as a pure varietal and the mix of vineyard sources, from the Horse Heaven Hills, Wahluke Slope, and Walla Walla Valley AVAs, shows just how much interest there now is in growing the grape. The 2006, which I tasted out of the barrel, is even better.
Wines Northwest: Wines of the Week
Look for aromas of blackberry, anise, baking spice and pepper. Flavors of ripe cherry and toasty oak frame the palate and make for a lip-smacking time at the dinner table.
Spring Release Weekend, 2009
"...the 2004 Champoux Vineyard Cabernet was simply transcendent, a wine so good that it literally brought all conversation to a stop."
Zinfandels with Zing!
Some of the best zinfandels I have tasted recently came — rather surprisingly — not from California but from Washington.
RatingOutstanding
Wine Press Northwest Review: 2005 Zinfandel
She has been producing Zin for Forgeron since 2002, and this is her finest effort to date.
Wine Press Northwest Review: 2005 Zinfandel
Marie-Eve has been producing Zin for Forgeron since 2002, and this is her finest effort to date.
Esquin Review: 2005 Zinfandel
One look at this amazing dark plum color in your glass and you will know this is going to be exquisite.
Wines Northwest Review: 2004 Zinfandel
...classic synthesis of varietals with jammy blackberry and pepper (Zinfandel) melding with anise and blueberry (Syrah), all wrapped in a toasty swaddling of French and American oak.”
Dallas Morning News Review: 2002 Zinfandel
Dallas Morning News, March 2005