January Domestic Wine: 2009 McKinley Springs ‘Bombing Range Red’ Red Table Wine, Horse Heaven Hills, WASHINGTON
“During WWII, the U.S. Government asked our family, and other families in the Horse Heaven Hills to leave our farms so the area could be used to train fighter pilots. Bombing Range Red is our tribute to our troops and the colorful history of the Horse Heaven Hills.”-McKinley Springs
History of McKinley Springs: Over 60 years ago Louise and Bob Andrews began farming the land her parents had acquired after World War II. They planted grapes in 1980, and soon after developed an award-winning reputation for the vineyard’s wines. In 1986, three of their children, Rob, Sandy and Scott, and their spouses, founded Andrews and Rowell with the mission of continuing the family farming tradition. They established McKinley Springs Winery in 2002 with a goal of producing balanced, flavorful wines offering excellent value. Today, four members of the fourth generation are also involved in the family business.
McKinley Springs grows over 20 varietals on its 2000 acre estate vineyard in the southern part of Washington’s Horse Heaven Hills. The region’s arid climate, high winds and low density vineyards provide ideal growing conditions. The family’s dedication to quality remains, evidenced by investment in vineyard technology. For example, shoot length indicators and water monitoring sites are implanted in all 200 blocks to help determine ideal watering times.
Rob Andrews, Grower, tends to the vineyards and Doug Rowell, Winemaker, oversees production. Together they make 10 wines, focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Chenin Blanc. McKinley Springs also supplies 25 noted area wineries with grapes, including Andrew Rich, Northstar, Syncline, Hogue and Columbia Crest. Visitors to the winery may walk its pristine vineyards and sample wines in the tasting room, located in a two-story post and beam building.
Varietals: 52% Syrah, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Malbec, and 4% Petit Verdot
Alcohol: 14.6% by volume
Tasting Notes: A deep garnet wine with coffee bean, dark fruit aromas and a hint of rosemary. Rich blackberry, mocha, and currant flavors with a long dry balanced finish.
Food Pairings: This is a great food wine — enjoy it with a Texas brisket style BBQ sandwich or vegetable stew.
Jim Lutfy’s thoughts: “Beefy, rich, and spicy! Great wine with rich soups and BBQ. I personally visited McKinley Springs a few years back, and I truly loved this wine in particular. I’m very excited to have this wine in the club! Cheers!”-JL