Brixspot

Spotlight on Stephenson Cellars

April 30th, 2012

Meet A Maverick

Some of the best wine stories begin with a dream, a dog and perhaps an old pickup.

In Dave Stephenson’s case, all of these elements factor into his story, as well as some beer.

You see, Dave wanted to brew beer, but somewhere along the way he found wine. So he sold everything he owned, including a townhouse, cashed in his 401K and moved to Walla Walla to make wine.

It was the late 1990s and an exciting time to be in the valley. Soon, he was learning his craft alongside some of the best winemakers in the state, such as Christophe Baron, Charlie Hoppes and Mike Januik.

By 2000, he had produced his first vintage and a year later, he opened Stephenson Cellars.

Dave quickly established himself as the “go-to-guy” for many of the winery start-ups and continues to consult on various projects, most notably, Otis Kenyon.

With Stephenson Cellars, Dave expresses his personal winemaking vision, where he “accentuates what’s edgy” with his vineyard-driven wines. Specifically, it’s his finesse with Syrah that has made his reputation.

For Spring Release Weekend (May 4-6) and on most weekends, you will find him back at his original airport shack with his two new releases, 2008 Syrah ($32) and 2010 Dry Gewurztraminer ($20).

2008 SYRAH

This 100% Syrah opens with a floral-infused perfume on the nose. Rose petal is most pronounced, with a noticeable dose of jasmine and orange blossom that intermingles and awakens the senses immediately. The initial flavors are powerful red fruits such as currants, cranberry and ripe raspberry. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied, very elegant, with a subtle touch of tannin to anchor the lengthy finish. Classic Syrah elements such as cracked pepper, spice and a hint of smoke and game are noticeable after the glass is put down and the palate clears. This wine is built to age at least 10 years, and should continue to improve for that entire duration. Superb wine, destined to be a cellar powerhouse. 190 cases produced. 100% French Oak. $32

2010 GEWURZTRAMINER

A non-traditional style of Gewurztraminer that was barrel-fermented until bone-dry in neutral French Oak. Full malolactic created a wine with lush tropical fruits such as mango, papaya and citrus on the nose, and a lush mouthfeel that still retains firm acidity. Baked apple and almond are prevalent flavors, and the finish is crisp and lemony. The fruit was sourced from St. Antoine Vineyard near Lake Chelan, and clearly showcases the varietal characteristics of a cool-climate grape grown in a high latitude, high quality viticulture area. 60 cases produced. 100% French Oak. $20

Stephenson Cellars is one of Walla Walla’s “least-known, though most interesting (wine) boutiques in town,” writes writer Paul Gregutt in “Washington Wines & Wineries, The Essential Guide.”

While winemaker Dave Stephenson has been the guiding wine influence for several local labels for more than a decade, his own label, Stephenson Cellars represents his personal winemaking vision, where he “accentuates what’s edgy” with his vineyard-driven wines.

Winery Tasting Room open most Fridays and Saturdays in season, somewhat irregular hours, so give Dave a call and he’ll open up for you if he is in town.