Every day it is not unusual for customers to ask for California Cabernets and Chardonnays, often looking for Napa or Sonoma wines. However, it is less likely they will inquire about Washington state wines. The exception might be if they are looking for big producers such as Columbia Crest or Chateau St. Michelle, which are often confused as California wines. Well, you really owe it to yourself to try Washington wines and not just the two before mentioned which are good, but from producers who may not sound familiar. These wines are unique and offer strong fruit (this is the land of cherries and apples after all) and much more.
Jayden wines come to us as a pleasant surprise. Both the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2014 Chardonnay are made from grapes that come from other impressive growers resulting in well balanced and complex wines for a good price.
The Chardonnay is medium bodied, has good acidity with crisp apple, tropical fruit and citrus notes, complimented by nutmeg, vanilla and light butter notes. The finish is creamy and satisfying. Pair this with roast chicken, mashed potatoes, waxed beans, corn bread and homemade applesauce.
The Cabernet Sauvignon is less full bodied and red berry driven which is more typical of a Washington Cabernet Sauvignon than most California Cabs which typically favor darker fruit. This does not mean it is thin- far from it. The wine tastes rich with notes of cherry lollipops, raspberry, licorice, vanilla and a small hint of pepper. The tannins are smooth and the finish is well rounded. Serve this wine with Pork medallions in cherry sauce with roasted potatoes and green beans with almonds.