This week on the Grapevine we will be showcasing three distinctively crisp and refreshing Washington Wines: Chardonnay 2007 ApexII, Shimmer 2004, and Cabernet Sauvignon 2005. Each of these flavorful wines are available at The Grill Fairmont Scottsdale. Joining Beth and Bill in the studio are Amanda Wingert, The Grill Manager; Erik Forrest, Chef de Cousine, and Heidi Wynn, Brand Manager and Tom Garrett, Sales Associate, both from Classico Wines. These wines compliment the perfectly prepared fresh seafood, succulent prime steaks and chops offered at The Grill at Fairmont Scottsdale.



Chardonnay 2007 Apex II


The concept behind Apex wine is simple: to produce a limited quantity of reserve-caliber wines so special and so outstanding that they represent the ultimate in winemaking, "ne plus ultra." Because Apex wines are produced in such small quantities, what happens to those barrels that aren’t selected for Apex? They become Apex II, the second label from Apex Cellars. Our goal with Apex II is to offer you an exceptional value—wines that are almost as impressive as Apex, but cost considerably less. Apex II wines are perfect for everyday enjoyment.

Balanced and polished, this Chardonnay emphasizes ripe apple fruit touched with vanilla spice, butterscotch, and toasty oak; crisp citrus notes makes this beauty a complex, harmonious whole.




Shimmer 2004, Shimmer



Celebrate the fusion of Washington's two greatest varietals with SHIMMER. One half SHIraz and one half MERlot, SHIMMER proves that two halves make a whole lot of impact. Shimmer balances the depth of Shiraz with the luscious fruit of Merlot to create a union of flavors that's so good it shines . . . or shimmers.

Deep red color leads to aromas of coco, mocha and coffee. A balanced palate gives way to flavors of roasted coffee, vanilla and a medley of summer berries. The wine finishes with well rounded tannins and lingering fruit.

Variety blend: 50% Shiraz/ 50% Melot
Alcohol content: 13.5%





Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Bridgman


In 1902, William B. Bridgman, one of the pioneers of the Washington wine industry, moved to Sunnyside and was the first to plant wine grapes in the Yakima Valley. To honor his daring spirit, Bridgman Cellars was introduced in 1993. Winemaker Brian Carter crafts these exciting wines emphasizing the use of newer varietals – Viognier, for example – produced in smaller lots. Bridgman offers many of the same varieties as other Apex wines, but with more fruit intensity. These delicious wines are designed for you to drink now.

The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon produces butterscotch, ripe apples, citrus, vanilla spice and tropical flavors that explode on the palate while a long, creamy finish balances all with mouth-cleansing acidity. This complexity is the result of oak fermentation, 90% malolactic fermentation, and extended lees contact.