Community College Provides Both Education and Good Wines

College Cellars is one of the only two-year teaching commercial wineries in the United States and Washingtonians will be pleased to know that the production facility is located at Walla Walla Community College.

Now I know what you’re thinking. This wine can’t be any good…it’s made by a bunch of college students. But after a visit to the campus last month I can assure you that there really are some terrific little wines coming out of this place. It’s a first class facility whose alumni are now branching out and starting wineries of their own – Trio Vintners, a collaboration of three graduates who recently set up shop in Walla Walla is just one example.

Among the college’s current releases that are worth noting include the 2006 Sagemoor Vineyards Semillon (about $15), a big, tasty white wine that’s a touch more fruit forward than most semillons. The 2005 Lemberger (abour $12) is another keeper, with a bundle of bright red fruit flavros, bracing acidity and spicy notes on the finish.

My personal favorite is the 2004 Syrah (abour $15), which is almost like drinking a fresh baked berry pie, crust and all. It’s plump, buttery and certainly a fruit bomb, but wow, what a guilty pleasure this wine is! Added Note: Compass Wines purchased the winery’s last 30 cases of Syrah and is currently offering them at a steal…only $12.99 a bottle. Go stock up now!

Also currently available is the 2005 Governor’s Red, the 2004 Phinny Hill Vineyard Cabernet and a nice 2004 Merlot from Klipsun Vineyard.

College Cellars wines can be found at Purple Smile Wines in Bellingham, Compass Wines in Anacortes and LaConner’s Hellams Vineyard. They’re also occasionally served at the Rhododendron Cafe in Bow.