A Rousing Vine: Old Meets New at Sweely Estate Winery

Friday, November 25, 2011

Old Meets New at Sweely Estate Winery

After our visit to Prince Michel we continued on our journey south to Sweely Estate Winery, where I must thank Erich for taking care of a fellow Coug (a Washington State University Coug that is). I had heard some mixed reviews on Sweely, which may soon have a new name, but we were very glad we made it a point to visit. It just goes to show that the differences in palate and opinion is what makes life interesting.

Even though the tasting room is large and airy we almost had a sense that we were walking into a private residence since the bar is behind a large fireplace in the back third of the cavernous space. Our server was friendly and knowledgeable as we tried their 7 wines. Of the four whites and 3 reds the 2007 Sweely Estate Cabernet Franc came out a strong favorite among the group. I also enjoyed their 2007 Wolftown Chardonnay which was their steel aged blend with 25% vidal.

As we wrapped up our tasting we had the pleasure to meet Peter, their relatively new CEO, and Franz, the winemaker. Peter gave us a great tour of the property, where we got to see some vines getting pulled out so they can rearrange where they plant the different grapes. Franz walked us through their wine making process in their very large, clean tank room. I find it so interesting to see how slightly different each winemaker chooses to make their wines or with varying degrees of technology. We lucked out and Franz gave us a sneak peak at their 2011 Pinot Gris which was a big hit, they'll be bottling it come spring and it's worth the trek! It had hints of pear and banana, but not too sweet.

This November has been incredible and the day we were out at Sweely was no exception. It was a little windy, but they sky was a clear blue and the sun was shining bright. It made for the perfect backdrop when Peter took us to the old barn on the property, historians have dated it between the late 1700s and 1800s and its a really great old structure especially next to their modern, yet rustic tasting room. The winery is well equipped for large events as well and as it is just off the main highways, tucked back against the mountains for great views. Our visit was peaceful, informative and leisurely, just the way I like my winery visits to be!