Wautoma Springs Albarino, Columbia Valley, Washington

Citrus and honeysuckle rise from the glass with a clean mineral edge, leading into a dry, energetic palate driven by mouth-watering acidity. The 2023 Wautoma Springs Albarino is made entirely from Albariño grown at JMST Vineyard, a sustainably certified site co-owned and managed by grape grower Tom Merkle. Produced in a tiny 251-case lot by winemaker Jessica Munnell, it captures Wautoma Springs' approach to aromatic white wine with clarity, freshness, and a close connection between grower, vineyard, and winemaker.

Product Details:

• Winemaker & Co-Owner: Jessica Munnell
• Grape Grower & Co-Owner: Tom Merkle
• Grape Variety: 100% Albariño
• Vineyard: JMST Vineyard
• Farming: Sustainable WA Certified
• ABV: 13.3%
• Total Acidity: 7.8 g/L
• pH: 3.25
• Residual Sugar: Dry
• Case Production: 251 cases

Sensory Description:

Bright citrus leads the aromatic profile, joined by fragrant honeysuckle and a clean mineral character. The palate is dry and focused, with the wine's 7.8 g/L of acidity providing a vivid, mouth-watering structure that keeps the fruit precise and energetic. Floral notes remain present without becoming heavy, while the mineral character brings definition through a bright, refreshing finish.

Awards & Accolades:

• 92 Points: Paul Gregutt, 2023 Wautoma Springs Albariño
• Double Gold: 14th Annual Sip Best of the Northwest, 2023 Wautoma Springs Albariño
• Silver: 2024 SommCon Concours d'Vin, 2023 Wautoma Springs Albariño

Wienmaker’s Background:

Wautoma Springs grew from the partnership between winemaker Jessica Munnell and second-generation grape grower Tom Merkle, who first met while working in Washington wine country and joined forces in 2008 to produce small-lot wines from vineyards they knew intimately. Munnell began her career in viticulture before moving into winemaking in 2003, including an internship in Australia and positions with Snoqualmie, Chateau Ste. Michelle Canoe Ridge, Mercer Wine Estates, and Vintage Wine Estates, while Merkle built his career growing and managing vineyards across Washington and planted his own Wautoma Springs Vineyard in 1999. Their model keeps grape growing and winemaking closely connected, with Merkle managing the vineyards and Munnell guiding the wines in the cellar. The 2023 Albariño comes from JMST Vineyard, a Sustainable WA certified site co-owned and managed by Merkle, and belongs to the winery's Heritage Series of aromatic white wines. Artist Leigh Ann Torres' label depicts Mock Orange, a native eastern Washington shrub whose fragrant white flowers evoke orange blossom and provide a visual connection to the floral, aromatic character of Albariño.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well chilled at approximately 8 to 10 degrees Celsius in a medium-sized white wine glass to emphasize its citrus, honeysuckle, mineral character, and bright acidity. Pair with oysters, ceviche, grilled prawns, white fish, sushi, fresh goat cheese, citrus-dressed salads, or simply prepared shellfish. Its dry profile and mouth-watering acidity also make it particularly effective alongside salty foods, fresh herbs, and dishes with a gentle touch of chile or spice.