Scores & Reviews
Viognier
2020
2020
95
Points
"The gorgeous and also very generous 2020 Liminal ‘WeatherEye Vineyard’ Viognier offers sweet honeysuckle, lychee, and roasted pineapple with suggestions of ripe cantaloupe on the nose. The palate is very fresh and lively, with serious texture. The underlying salinity is truly outstanding here, as is the lip-smacking acidity that flows through the core of the Viognier. With more air this shows even wilder components of yarrow and white rose water. Enjoy at a slightly warmer temperature to take in the thrilling set of flavors and aromatics. Drink 2022-2030."
- Owen Bargreen
94
Points
"Fruit that comes from the impeccable WeatherEye Vineyard, the 2020 High Canyon Viognier displays a golden apple core with a honey rim in the glass. It’s aged for 9 months in neutral French oak barrels to allow the fruit to shine without any distractions. Rich and decadent on the nose, it gifts fetching aromas of grilled pineapple, honeysuckle flower, honey-coated Bartlett pear, and blanched almonds. Rich and oily on the palate with elevated levels of acidity and a firm full-body mouthfeel, it gives this wonderful mushroom and earthy quality on the front palate."
- Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
92
Points
"All from the WeatherEye Vineyard, the 2020 Viognier is made in a bright, juicy, almost racy style. Giving up bright green apple, tart apricot, and crushed stone notes, it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, bright, clean acidity, good balance, and solid length on the finish. This racy, vibrant Viognier will keep for 3-4 years."
2019
2019
94
Points
"This gorgeous Viognier from Liminal (a second label from Avennia Wines' founder/winemaker Chris Peterson) is a fresh, mineral-driven stunner with just enough weight on the mid palate to remind you it’s a Viognier but without the overpowering or cloying nutmeg and floral aromas found in many other examples. The white blossom notes are there, but linger in the background, blending with notes of chalk, Asian pear, almonds and vanilla."
92
Points
"Another gorgeous Viognier by winemaker Chris Peterson, this one coming from the WeatherEye Vineyard of Red Mountain and rests for 9 months in neutral French oak barrels. Aromas of honey-coated yellow pear, white flower blossoms and vanilla seeds are prominent on the nose while the luscious and rich palate delivers some tropical and toasted cashew notes with medium plus acidity, a structured and full body, and a lengthy finish. Drink 2021-2026."
- Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
91
Points
"Grapes from a site high up on the mountain compose this wine. Its aromas are reserved, with notes of peach, nectarine and almond skin. The palate is light on its feet, with an ethereal feel. The finish is downright juicy. It’s a unique take on this variety in the state."
- Sean Sullivan, Wine Enthusiast
17
Points
"Notes of crisp pear, mixed grapefruit and vanilla bean move from the nose through the palate with a mouth-watering, pithy presence carrying through a long finish. This is a beautiful expression of Viognier with plenty of tension, nice focus, a savoury quality and just enough fruit to be thirst-quenching and delicious. Worth seeking out. Distinctive."
2018
2018
94
Points
"The 2018 ‘WeatherEye Vineyard’ Viognier is a stunning effort by the talented Chris Peterson. Honeysuckle and pear tones collide with smoky minerals and shades of orange blossom that all take shape in the glass. The palate is fresh and beautifully textured. Smooth throughout the drinking experience this effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Vanilla cream and toasted hazelnut tones combine with ripe banana and mango tones giving this plenty of exotic appeal. Dense, with great viscosity, I can see this cellaring well for another eight years. Drink 2020-2027."
93
Points
"This is the inaugural vintage of this wine, coming from high up on Red Mountain. Aromas of pear, peach, lees and mineral are followed by textured fruit flavors that show a strong sense of vibrancy and, dare I say, minerality. The intensity, balance and length are impressive. It focuses on lees expression and texture rather than sheer varietal purity."
Grenache
2020
2020
96
Points
"The 2020 Liminal Grenache is sourced from a .9-acre bush vine Grenache parcel at the top of the Northern slope on Red Mountain. This location produces very small, concentrated berries. The palate is rich and viscous with serious concentration and underlying finesse. The richness once on the mouth and its color is truly novel considering the varietal. Layers of bull's blood, iodine, white pepper, orange rind and generous red and dark fruits all parade on the palate. This is a very gratifying and heady wine that will easily cellar for another decade — but is nearly impossible to put down in its full-throttle youth. Give this an hour of air prior to savoring. Drink 2022-2034."
- Owen Bargreen
96
Points
"Aged 16 months in used French oak barrels, it displays a glistening neon ruby core with a blueish rim in the glass. Lovely notes of candied black cherry, red plum skin, pencil shavings, mountain sagebrush, iron ore, saline, and dried herbs, it delivers lush depth and structure on the palate that compliments the chewy tannins and citrusy acidity nicely. Still showing incredibly young, please give this a few years in the bottle before enjoying. Just 68 cases made. Highly recommended."
- Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
93
Points
"Sweetly perfumed and totally seductive, the 2020 Grenache High Canyon Series WeatherEye Vineyard, leaps from the glass with a mix of ripe strawberries, lavender and rubbed sage. It’s unapologetically ripe in style balanced by bright acidity, as a dense wave of ultra-ripe red and blue fruits cascades throughout. This leaves the palate stained in blue and purple-toned florals and confectionary spice, while finishing with admirable length. The 2020 Grenache is a hedonist’s delight."
- Eric Guido, Vinous
91-93
Points
"The 2020 Grenache High Canyon comes all from Red Mountain and offers some wild strawberry and blueberry-like fruits as well as some chalky minerality and floral notes. It has the classic, firmer Grenache tannins as well as medium to full body. There are some subtle smoky notes on the finish, but as with all the wines here, it has lots to like."
2019
2019
94
Points
"All Grenache from a higher elevation site on Red Mountain, the 2019 Grenache High Canyon Series is semi-translucent and was aged 16 months in neutral 500-liter puncheon and barrel. A vibrant, fresher Grenache, it offers pretty red fruits (strawberries, darker raspberries) as well as sappy, mountain scrub brush, pepper, and hints of chalky, mineral on both the nose and the palate. More medium-bodied on the palate, it's elegant, has plenty of tannins, and outstanding length. It's going to round into form with 2-3 years of bottle age and shine for a decade."
"A new label created by co-founders Marty Taucher and Chris Peterson, Liminal focuses on the newly planted WeatherEye vineyard located on the top of Red Mountain. The winemaking is handled by Peterson, with the farming managed by one of the best vineyard managers out there, Ryan Johnson. This all-star team is already making brilliant wines and, trust me on this one, the best is yet to come. I believe there’s already a waiting list, so don’t miss this up-and-coming estate."
- Jeb Dunnuck
94
Points
"Taken from a selection of grapes from the highest point of Red Mountain, this 100% Grenache is aged for 16 months in neutral French oak. Gorgeous notes of red cherry, black raspberry, blueberry compote, fresh sage and wet sand are all present with medium acidity and silky tannins that are already beautifully integrated on the palate. Liminal has crafted a gorgeous Grenache that shows what Washington State can deliver. Drink now or hold for a decade or more. Only 83 cases produced."
93
Points
"Of the new releases from this fascinating new site high atop Red Mountain, this one is the most brooding, with notes of dark raspberry and herb. The flavors are full-bodied and pure. It’s still clenched. Give it time in the cellar or decant. Best after 2024. Cellar Selection."
- Sean Sullivan, Wine Enthusiast
92
Points
"Aromas of ripe strawberries, black cherries and elderflowers. Full-bodied with silky tannins. Melted dark chocolate, iron and black tea. Balanced and intense. A very dark expression of Grenache. Drink now."
- James Suckling
17++
Points
"Savoury strawberry aromas expand as the wine gains air after opening. Mouth-watering, with a generous wash of acidity that is well housed in a palate of flavour. Savoury and persistent with abundant, succulent, palate-coating tannin that carries through a long finish. Give this wine plenty of air upon opening and consider holding it another year in bottle. It will only improve with age."
2018
2018
97
Points
"The first thing one notices about this wine is the depth of color for the variety. Coming from the Amphitheater block, the aromas pop in notes of black raspberry, rose petal, pomegranate and crushed rock. Red and black fruit flavors undulate across the palate, showing deftness, richness and detail. The finish goes on as long—longer even than one cares to count. Throughout it all, it retains a sense of balance and freshness. It's a yardstick against which future Washington Grenache will be measured."
95
Points
"Sourced from this site high atop Red Mountain, the 2018 ‘WeatherEye Vineyard’ Grenache was aged for sixteen months in neutral puncheons and barriques before bottling. Pretty red rose petals mingle with orange rind, red cherry candy and underbrush tones on the nose. The palate is silky smooth, giving off an incredible sense of elegance. Lithe and light on its feet, this dances across the mid-palate delivering red rose water and cran-orange tones alongside a wonderful veil of tension and lighter damp earth and garrigue undertones. The seamless texture and gratifying length really add to the drinking experience as this beautiful wine has another decade or more ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032."
High Canyon Syrah
2020
2020
97
Points
"Very intense, the outstanding 2020 Liminal ‘High Canyon’ Syrah comes from a site near the Viognier block at the WeatherEye Vineyard. Winemaker Chris Peterson chose to co-ferment the 2020 ‘High Canyon’ Syrah with 3% Viognier in a concrete egg. Right away this shows off violets with tar, tobacco leaf and blackberry cordial on the nose. There is the faintest high-toned honeysuckle note from the Viognier that adds to the enjoyment. The palate is rich and deep, with light tannins that frame the core of hedonistic dark fruits, scorched earth and graphite undertones. This is nothing short of unbelievably good. Drink 2022-2036."
- Owen Bargreen
96
Points
"About 3% Viognier is co-fermented with WeatherEye Syrah from Red Mountain to give it some aromatic lift, and then it’s aged for 16 months in 40% once-filled barrels and 60% neutral French oak. Showcasing a deep purple ruby core with a neon dark pink rim, this is an almost perfect wine from Chris Peterson. I sat in awe enjoying the nose for over 15 minutes before I could even take a sip - think classic Red Mountain Syrah aromas of boysenberry, blackberry preserve, dried Red Mountain sagebrush, smoked beef, crushed black olives, powdered green peppercorn, dried blueberry fruit leather, toasted vanilla pod, and sweet baking spices. Tannins are wonderfully integrated into the backbone of the luscious acidity, and full-bodied and earth-forward finish. It’s spectacular. Get your hands on this bottle of wine before they all disappear. Just 122 cases produced. Highly recommended."
- Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
94
Points
"With a wine like this, I can see why everyone is talking about the WeatherEye Vineyard. This masterful Syrah has the kind of black fruit, white pepper, violets and citrus notes that first made me fall in love with Côte-Rôtie. There’s even a tiny note that smells like pork fat dripping down to hit hot coals. Editors’ Choice."
- Michael Alberty, Wine Enthusiast
94
Points
"The 2020 Syrah High Canyon Series WeatherEye Vineyard lifts from the glass, with cooling minty herbal tones giving way to cinnamon, clove and, finally, dried black cherry. It washes across the palate with ease, minerally intense, like liquid stone, yet fruit-centric with ripe blackberries and exotic spices swirling throughout. The 2020 stains that palate in primary concentration and grippy young tannins. Violet florals and hints of olive tapenade slowly fade. Lose this radiant beauty in the cellar for a number of years, and then reap the rewards."
- Eric Guido, Vinous
93-95
Points
"I loved the 2020 Syrah High Canyon, which includes 3-4% Viognier. It has tons of blue fruits, violets, graphite, and scorched earth notes in a full-bodied, rich, balanced, textured package."
93
Points
"Notes of cassis and plums with sweet spices, beeswax and dried orange peel. Textured and velvety with medium to full body and firm tannins, with some chewiness to it. Mellow and rich finish. Better from 2024."
- James Suckling
2019
2019
97
Points
"96% Syrah is co-fermented with 4% Viognier and then aged for 16 months in 25% new French barrel and 500L puncheon. My favorite of those I tasted from the new releases from winemaker Chris Peterson and absolutely over-delivers. The color is phenomenal - deep purple with a neon ruby rim, that is a joy to swirl in the glass. Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, peppered salami and purple wildflower are all present - this Syrah is absolutely intoxicating. On the palate, flavors of black cherry, blueberry, cured bacon and green olive punch you in the face, in a good way of course. The acidity is perfect, the tannins are already starting to integrate and the finish goes on for miles. Do yourself a favor and find a bottle of this. Wait for 3-4 years and then open it on a special occasion. It’s an incredible bottle of wine. Only 100 cases produced. Highly recommended."
97
Points
"The 2019 Syrah High Canyon Series is flat-out gorgeous and one of the standouts in the lineup. Beautiful ripe red and blue fruits, peppery herbs, chocolate, and spice all define the bouquet, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a round, layered, seamless profile, no hard edges, perfect balance, and a great finish. This is Red Mountain Syrah at its finest. Bravo! Top 100 Wines of 2022 - #47"
94
Points
"The second vintage from a new site, this is a wine that immediately impresses, with aromas of huckleberry, marionberry, herbs and flowers, showing dazzling purity. Soft, achingly pure fruit flavors follow. The balance is spot-on. This one is all about sophistication. It’s only going to get better with additional time in the bottle. Drink after 2024, with a long life ahead of that. Cellar Selection."
- Sean Sullivan, Wine Enthusiast
93
Points
"Aromas of red berries, jasmine tea, ground spice and roses. Full-bodied with soft tannins. Very concentrated and dark on the palate. Gravel, chocolate, burnt herbs and black cherries. Sleek. Cool, minty finish. A well-structured and dynamic wine. 96% Syrah and 4% Viognier. Drink now."
- James Suckling
17.5
Points
"Savoury aromas carry into the palate with a mix of bacon fat, desert sage and a bit of grapefruit pith. The palate is savoury and full of flavour, with fine-grained tannin well balanced by abundant acidity that keeps the mouth watering and carries through an ultra-long finish. There is plenty of pleasure in drinking it now but the wine will benefit from decanting at this stage. It is focused, generous but not overwrought, flavourful and avoids any sense of overripeness that might be implied by the alcohol level. The wine carries the alcohol very well and is balanced. It is more ready to drink now compared with the Block 16 Syrah though the Block 16 will no doubt reveal more open expressiveness with a little more time in bottle. Delicious."
2018
2018
97
Points
"Coming from a canyon high up on Red Mountain and aged in 18% new French oak, the aromas pull you into the glass, with notes of mulberry, blackberry, kirsch, earth, crushed rock, coffee and bacon fat. There's depth, intensity, richness, layering, polish, and texture to the palate. The finish is endless. This wine has it all, with the impressive balance, intensity, acidity and length separating it far out front. It sings from the top of Red Mountain. Best after 2026."
96
Points
"Put Liminal wines on your must-try list as they will soon be in the rankings of the top wines of Washington. This outstanding 100% Syrah from the WeatherEye Vineyard of Red Mountain is aged in 25% new French oak barrels. A dreamy intoxicating stream of macerated blackberry, new suede leather, vanilla bean, coffee and balsamic reduction fill the top of the glass. The old-world Rhone style palate of fresh blackberry, bacon fat, dried sage, ground black peppercorns and espresso is gorgeous on the palate. Medium plus tannins are balanced with a tight core of earth and fruit that will only get better with time."
95
Points
"The 2018 Liminal ‘High Canyon’ Syrah was stored for sixteen months in 25% new French oak and 50% 500L puncheons before bottling. Smoky tones and soy sauce aromatics combine with wild blackberry cordial, garrigue and shades of smoked brisket that all mingle in the glass. The palate is soft, round and generous as this effortlessly glides throughout. Rich dark figs and blackberry compote collide with Korean BBQ beef ribs, Umami and sagebrush tones on the palate. Utterly sensational right now to savor, this ‘wow’ factor Syrah has another decade of life to go. Drink 2020-2032."
Block 16 Syrah
2020
2020
97
Points
"The 2020 Block 16 Syrah is aged for 16 months in 24% new French oak barrels this richer, denser, and more meaty Syrah delivers everything I love about Red Mountain Syrahs. Presenting a dark ruby-purple core with a shimmering pink rim in the glass, and gifting Red Mountain notes of spiced black plum, wild blueberry, Red Mountain sagebrush, dried violet flowers, spiced vanilla, cracked black pepper, pine forest breeze, and just a smooch of barbecued brisket, it’s a treat to behold. The palate is much leaner and tighter than the nose, but it’s only because the wine needs another 3-4 years in the bottle before you are to open it. I loved the rich, dense, and focused spicy finish. A small production of 90 cases were produced. Better in 2025 and then enjoy for 15-20 years with proper cellaring. Highly recommended and Editor’s Choice."
- Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
96
Points
"Coming from a steep, northern-facing slope at the WeatherEye Vineyard, the 100% varietal ’Block 16’ Syrah was stored in 25% new French oak before bottling. Immediately this shows off bull's blood aromas with saline-drenched charcuterie and dense dark fruits. The palate is very savory and salty, with a terrific mouthfeel and great depth and character. Gorgeous in its full-throttle youth, this will easily go for another decade. Drink 2022-2035."
- Owen Bargreen
95
Points
"Dark and moody in the glass, the 2020 Syrah Block Highlight Series WeatherEye Vineyard Block 16 grumbles up with a bouquet of crushed ashen stones, musky black currants and savory spice. This washes across the palate with silky textural fruits, yet quickly gains tension through a core of brisk acidity and salty minerals. The 2020 lingers impossibly long, as nearly a minute goes by, and I can still feel its silty tannins and the beautiful inner floral perfumes that linger. This is a beast in need of taming."
- Eric Guido, Vinous
94
Points
"Notes of ripe plums and blueberries with licorice, vanilla, violets, cocoa and wet stones. Full and structured on the palate with layers with plush, velvety tannins coating a deep core of dark and blue berries. It’s broad and complex with a lingering finish. Attractive now, but better after 2024."
- James Suckling
94-96
Points
"The 2020 Syrah Block 16 is more dense and meaty, with ripe, meaty black and blue fruits as well as notes of graphite and pepper. These carry over to the palate, where the wine is full-bodied, has a rich, mouth-filling texture, and ripe tannins. It's a beautiful wine."
2019
2019
97
Points
"The 2019 Syrah Block 16 comes from a higher elevation, northern facing parcel and was mostly destemmed and saw 25% new French oak. It's a full-bodied, pure, balanced, impressive Syrah delivering awesome notes of darker berry fruits, violets, ground pepper, and smoked meats. Just beautiful on all accounts, it has silky tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. It's another heavenly Syrah from this team that readers will absolutely love."
95
Points
"Coming from the highest portion of the WeatherEye Vineyard on Red Mountain, this 100% Syrah is fermented in stainless steel and aged for 16 months in 25% new French oak and 500L puncheon. Think about what you love about perfectly crafted Syrahs from Washington state, and this wine delivers that in spades. Imagine notes of blackberry, elderberry, smoked game, black olive tapenade, pink peppercorn, grapefruit zest and smokey potpourri - all wrapped up in a bow alongside medium plus acidity and chalky tannins. Please do not open this before 2024 and then open a bottle each year for the next decade or so and watch how it develops. Only 96 cases produced."
92
Points
"Fruit for this wine comes from the top of Red Mountain, on a north-facing block. The aromas of plum, blue fruit and cigar box are ripe and show purity. On the palate, there’s deftness to the full-bodied fruit flavors, with lightly grainy tannins backing it up. It hangs on the finish, needing time to show its best. Drink after 2025. If you’re looking for a marathon runner, this one will win the race. Cellar Selection."
- Sean Sullivan, Wine Enthusiast
17.5++
Points
"Carries both a savoury nose and a palate with still-firm, though very fine, only lightly tactile tannin. This Syrah needs a lot of air to open and become more expressive, but then it has a lot of interest to offer – a mix of purple fruits, light floral lift and plenty of savoury, meaty and deep herbal notes. The flavours are lightly brooding but the acidity is fresh and refreshing. It will benefit from another year in bottle but not because of structural age but because the wine feels as if it is in an introspective phase and will become more open and expressive with a little additional time. This is a serious wine, well made and impressive. Nice finesse. Carries the alcohol impressively well."
2018
2018
96
Points
"Fruit for this wine comes from the highest block currently planted on Red Mountain, north facing at the top of the ridge, outside the AVA boundaries. Aged in 25% new French oak, it's the most brooding of the winery's inaugural releases, with notes of dried herb, blackberry, coffee and clove. It's dazzling in its intensity and layering, saturating the palate from end to end while still showing fleetness of foot. Packed full of tannin and acid, it absolutely sails on the finish. The balance is exquisite. Best after 2025."
94
Points
"The ‘Block 16’ at the WeatherEye Vineyard is the highest planting at this site. North-facing, it is incredibly tightly spaced unlike any site on Red Mountain. A glass-staining purple, this opens with violets and smoked brisket alongside shades of boysenberry liquor and dried Provencale herbs that all meld in the glass. The palate is plush, showing a good depth and concentration but also a seamless texture. Ripe dark fruits mingle with smoky and dried herbal tones on the palate. The combination of bright acidity and texture brings you back to the glass for more enjoyment. Sensational now in its youth, this silky wine has a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032."
Block 10 Cabernet Franc
2020
2020
96
Points
"The 2020 WeatherEye Cabernet Franc from Liminal displays a dark purple core with a silvery rim and explodes with aromas of black plum, huckleberry pie, black licorice purple rose petal, dried lavender, crushed green peppercorn, and that telltale sign of mountain sage that is grown on Red Mountain. Impeccably made and wonderfully balanced, this Franc is absolutely stellar in its balance, structure, and purity of fruit. Only 71 cases were made. Highly recommended."
- Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
95
Points
"Coming from a super steep block in the WeatherEye Vineyard, the 2020 Liminal Cabernet Franc is one of the great wines of its kind in Washington State. This reveals stunning aromas of black rose petals and violets with red bell pepper, fresh sage, blackberry compote and mocha tones. The palate is rich and viscous with a light salinity. Beautifully textured, with great length, there is nothing quite like this in Washington State. Give this two hours in the decanter before enjoying. Drink 2022-2038."
- Owen Bargreen
2019
2019
97+
Points
"Blackcurrants, damp earth, spring flowers, and gravelly earth are just some of the nuances in the 2019 Cabernet Franc Block 10, a medium to full-bodied, rich, gorgeously concentrated, balanced expression of Cabernet Franc, as well as Red Mountain. It shows more structure with time in the glass but never loses its seamless, pure, incredibly elegant profile. This is the real deal and worth 3-4 years of bottle age. It will have two decades of overall longevity."
94
Points
"Vivid aromas of ripe blackcurrants, anise and rosemary. Full-bodied with fine, slightly chewy tannins. Cinnamon and clove mix with black fruit and dried violets. Well structured with very good depth and intensity. Very polished. This is showing well now, but will be better in a few years. Best after 2024."
- James Suckling
17++
Points
"The aromas offer pretty notes of powdery violet blossoms alongside resinous herbs, dusty earth and meaty, savoury notes. An elegant, finessed palate follows. The wine is in a subdued and introspective phase that is currently a bit tight. Tannin is firm but powdery fine and can benefit from decanting as well as from another year in bottle. Lengthy and well balanced with pleasing acidity. The desert sage element so common to WeatherEye wines is present but it's a subtle accent instead of the dominant force that appears in some of their Rhône-style wines. Definitely a distinctive expression of the variety."
Block 47 Cabernet Sauvignon
2020
2020
99
Points
"My favorite Liminal wine from 2020... 100% Cabernet fruit from the WeatherEye Vineyard of Red Mountain, this scintillating and remarkable Cabernet from winemaker Chris Peterson is one of the better Washington Cabs that I have tasted from the 2020 vintage. It’s aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak - but don’t be alarmed, this wine handles all of that oak in spades. Showcasing purity of fruit, and wonderful elegance, it offers a bountiful bouquet of crushed blueberries, wet gravel, crème de cassis, smokey tobacco, dried violet petals, cedary herbs, toasted cinnamon stick, and powdered graphite. Tannins are grippy and sweet, acidity levels are perfection, and the black fruit and savory finish complete this wine - you must seek it out if you can find it. Better in 2025 and then enjoy over the next two decades. Only 68 cases were made. Highly recommended and Editor's Choice."
- Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
98
Points
"The final number in this stunning lineup, the 2020 Liminal Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterclass that was sourced from a lower elevation block which is a one-acre site, southwest-facing with tight spacing in the WeatherEye Vineyard. The underlying acidity and salty character really make this sing. Very concentrated with huckleberry, Turkish coffee, dark chocolate shavings and black florals, this is a singular, one of a kind wine that is already beautifully evolved. Get your hands on this beauty if you can and be sure to give it plenty of air prior to enjoyment. Drink 2022-2042. Top 100 of 2022."
- Owen Bargreen
95
Points
"The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Block Highlight Series WeatherEye Vineyard Block 47 impresses with a mentholated mix of black currants, oak spice, dark chocolate and minty herbs. While densely packed with gobs of ripe black fruit, it finds a lovely balance through zesty acidity and hints of sour citrus that add lovely contrast. A web of fine tannins coat the palate, as the 2020 slowly melts away, leaving a staining of primary concentration as sweet tobacco lingers on."
- Eric Guido, Vinous
94-96
Points
"The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Block 47 offers a brilliant perfume of pure cassis fruit as well as flowers, lead pencil, and chalky minerality. It reminds me of a great Saint Julien and is full-bodied, has building tannins, fabulous purity, and a great finish."
2019
2019
98+
Points
"Lastly, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Block 47 is slightly more modern styled, with gorgeous cassis fruits, tobacco, and obvious minerality grounded by some classy new oak. Dense purple-hued and full-bodied on the palate, it has ultra-fine tannins, straight-up awesome purity, flawless balance, and a great finish. A thrill a minute, it’s worth hiding for 4-5 years and will impress over the following 20-30 years. It's one of the finest Bordeaux blends I've tasted from Washington State."
18
Points
"Detailed aromas reveal a spread of fresh herbal blossoms, lightly earthy notes, citrus zest, tobacco leaf and a light, black-plum tang. This is an unusual Cabernet Sauvignon, unlike any I have tasted from Washington or anywhere else. The palate reveals pronounced desert-sage notes, firm but utterly fine-grained tannin and balanced, palate-enlivening acidity. There is a glowing energy to this wine that is persistent and lengthy. It will benefit from decanting as well as another year in bottle. Worth seeking out. Distinctive, impressive and unusual."
GSM
2020
2020
96
Points
"Aged for 16 months in a combination of French oak and concrete egg, this enchanting GSM is a mélange of 46% Grenache, 28% Mourvèdre, and 26% Syrah and shows a medium to dark ruby purple core in the glass. Meaty in texture and flavors, the savory components hit first with notes of bacon fat, crushed black olives, country road, and toasted peppercorns. That is immediately followed up with fantastic black and blue fruit with just a tad of sweet vanilla and baking spice peeking through to the finish. Another incredible effort by Chris Peterson and team. 187 cases were made. Highly recommended."
- Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
95
Points
"The 2020 Liminal ‘WeatherEye Vineyard GSM’ Red Wine blends 46% Grenache with smaller parts Syrah and Mourvèdre. The wine has a lot to admire with the immediately gratifying aromatics of red currants and potpourri with white pepper dusted bacon. The palate is dense and chewy with serious depth and concentration, with a light dusting of salinity and great veil of tension throughout the drinking experience. Very salty and savory, this is seriously good stuff that is built to age. Give this an hour of air prior to enjoying. Drink 2022-2034."
- Owen Bargreen
93
Points
"The 2020 GSM WeatherEye Vineyard lifts from the glass with a darkly alluring blend of dried black cherries and exotic spice. It opens with a pleasant inner sweetness and ripe red and blue fruits contrasted by saline-tinged minerals, adding a more tactile feel toward the close. Lightly structured with a violet pastille nuance, the 2020 finishes on citrus-tinged blackberries notes. This beauty aims to please."
- Eric Guido, Vinous
92
Points
"This full-bodied GSM is a hedonist’s delight. It starts with blackberry and strawberry jam aromas that you just want to smear on buttered toast. Fresh rose petals flutter in the background. Tart cranberry and orange flavors blend with candied ginger and black tea notes. A rich mouthfeel, with velvety tannins."
- Michael Alberty, Wine Enthusiast
93
Points
"Notes of ripe cherries and black raspberries with chocolate, blue flowers and dust. Medium- to full-bodied. Ripe and well-integrated tannins melting together with the deep dark fruit and leading to a creamy, lingering finish. Complex and solid. 46% Grenache, 28%, Syrah and 26% Mourvèdre. Drink or hold."
- James Suckling
91-93
Points
"The 2020 GSM should be outstanding, with lots of candied violets, pepper, herbes de Provence, and wild strawberry notes in a medium to full-bodied, firmer, focused style. The tannins here will need to be watched, but this has lots to love."
2019
2019
94
Points
"Aromas of ripe red cherries, sage and ripe strawberries. Full-bodied with tasty, berry acidity. Fine tannins. Nutmeg and cardamom add charming complexity. Ripe, but bright and a little wild. Savory finish. Totally delicious and fun. 38% Grenache, 36% Syrah and 26% Mourvèdre. Drink or hold."
- James Suckling
94
Points
"A supremely elegant, silky-textured, Grenache-led blend showing aromas and flavors of boysenberries, baking spices and granite. It's fermented then aged for 16 months in a mix of concrete eggs, puncheons and neutral French oak barrels for 16 months. This is the third vintage of this wine, designed to show how different varieties and blocks can combine in harmony yet still show individual vineyard character."
94
Points
"A slightly Grenache-heavy split of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, the 2019 GSM Vineyard Series is deep ruby/purple hued with a great nose of ripe blackberries, crunchy black cherries, graphite, ground pepper, and chalky minerality. It's medium to full-bodied, has wonderful overall balance, fine tannins, and a great finish."
93
Points
"The second vintage of this wine is a blend of 38% Grenache, 36% Syrah and 26% Mourvèdre, and it’s a beauty. The aromas pull you into the glass, with piercingly pure notes of red raspberry, plum, pomegranate, white pepper and dried herb, showing delineation and detail. The flavors are rich but balanced, showing layering and purity. It hangs on the finish. There’s enough tannic heft to thrive with time in the cellar. Best after 2025. Cellar Selection."
- Sean Sullivan, Wine Enthusiast
93
Points
"Stunning deep purple, with a bluish tinted rim, this blend of 36% Grenache, 36% Syrah and 26% Mourvèdre is aged for 16 months in 30% concrete egg, 55% in 500L puncheon, and 15% in neutral barrel. The intoxicating nose expresses exuberant aromas of violet and purple flower petals, boysenberry and peppery notes. Black cherry, clove and a spec of tar dance on the palate. Acidity, tannin, alcohol and fruit are all balanced to deliver a very nice GSM blend from Red Mountain. Only 285 cases produced."
17.5+
Points
"Showing nice complexity and range on the nose with a savoury mix of red and blue fruits followed by pleasing roundness on the palate. The palate includes a full mouthful of flavour carried by succulent, mouth-coating tannin that is both finessed and expressive. This is a delicious, well-balanced, beautifully made wine that also carries its alcohol impressively well. I am impressed by how much natural acidity is in these wines and how well they deliver flavour, barely revealing the alcohol. Blending serves this wine well by bringing more completeness and balance compared with the 100% Grenache wine, though the Grenache is delicious. Impressive."
2018
2018
96
Points
"Fruit for this inaugural wine comes from a new site up and over the top of Red Mountain and down onto the north side. Grenache makes up 42%, followed by Mourvèdre (38%) and Syrah. The aromas bring notes of pomegranate, mulberry, crushed rock, savory herb and black pepper. It's a big mouthful of a wine, rich, layered and intense, with earthshaking intensity and plenty of tension. There's impressive tannin and an abundance of acidity to enliven it all. The fruit-filled finish seems near endless. It's a new benchmark for Rhône-style blends in Washington. Best after 2025."
95
Points
"A stunner of a wine that is just as beautiful in the glass as it is on the nose and palate. This beautiful GSM blend of 42% Grenache, 38% Mourvèdre, 20% Syrah from the WeatherEye Vineyard in Red Mountain explodes with fragrances of fresh red cherries, black raspberries, chopped mint, dried hay and wet earth. The nose has so much complexity, showing earthiness without becoming overpowering. The experience continues as the wine hits the back of your tongue, with flavors of wild thimbleberries, chocolate covered orange peel and a hint of black-peppered salami coming from its decadent Syrah component. The palate is very multi-layered with loads of tension and robustness. Needs a few years in the bottle to settle down and will cellar for 20+ years. Highly recommended."
"Unquestionably, one of the most exciting new projects in Washington State is that of Liminal, which focuses on the newly planted WeatherEye Vineyard located at the very top of Red Mountain. A collaboration between Ryan Johnson and Cam Myhrvold, who managed the vineyard, and Marty Taucher and Chris Peterson who handle the winemaking, this is a star-studded team. As I hope the reviews show, these are awesome wines, which is even more impressive given that this is a brand new vineyard. I’ve no doubt the best is still to come as well!"
- Jeb Dunnuck
94
Points
"The 2018 GSM WeatherEye Vineyard offers up an incredibly complex nose that includes lots of red and blue fruits, white pepper, and sandalwood as well as a medium to full-bodied, supple, seamless style on the palate. A blend of 42% Grenache, 38% Syrah, and 20% Mourvèdre, brought up in neutral oak, it would stand up to any top Châteauneuf du Pape out there."