A fun new arrival and, as far as we can find, the only Graciano produced in Washington State (and probably the country!). It’s without question a big wine but its stature is elegant, especially in the way the tannins glide and present themselves while never dominating. This would be a great partner to a carne asada platter, complete with a mix grill of peppers, green onions, and cast-iron seared cherry tomatoes.
From Idilico: What a treat! This is 100% Graciano custom planted for us by Upland vineyard near Sunnyside, WA in the Snipes Mountain AVA. A relatively unknown variety from the Rioja wine region of Spain that is primarily used to enhance the color and acidity of Tempranillo blends. It is rarely showcased as a stand-alone varietal wine due to its unreliable late ripening. In eastern Washington it ripens just perfectly due to a warmer climate and produces one of the most unique wines you’ll ever try.
Idilico is Pomum Cellars’ sister brand focusing exclusively on Spanish varietal wines grown in Washington State. Idilico is the name of a famous Bull that performed in the Barcelona Bullfight Ring in 2008. He was so “brave” that he earned a pardon and was spared from the Matador’s sword. Needless to say this is a very rare occurrence and a great victory for this magnificent creature. The goal for Idilico wines, is to bring to the consumer's attention the potential of Spanish varietals in the great Washington State vineyards. Our first white is a beautiful Albariño to which we will follow with Garnacha, Tempranillo and Graciano. Down the road we hope to showcase Monastrel, Verdejo, Viura, Mencia and others.
Idilico is the only winery in Washington focusing exclusively on Spanish varietals grown in the unique Washington State vineyards. Spanish varietal wines are the most pleasurable wines around. Who doesn’t love a deep and structured Tempranillo, a juicy and luscious Garnacha or a steely acid driven Albariño?
Washington vineyards are ideally suited to grow the finicky Spanish cultivars. Contrary to popular belief, wine regions in Spain are not balmy and endlessly sunny. In fact most top growing regions in Spain best resemble Washington State. Dry desert conditions, scorching day time temperatures with huge temperature swings at night all wrapped up in a short growing season and frosty winters.
As the saying goes: “Nueve meses de invierno tres meses de infierno” (Nine months of winter, three months of hell). Yep...sounds like Eastern Washington.