From (winery based in): Newburg, Oregon
Blend: Mourvedre, Malbec, Verdelho, Pinot Noir
Taste: Aromas of cherry starburst, floral undertones, and soothing black tea provides an inviting introduction to this unique blend. On the palate, you’ll find crunchy red fruits, fresh raspberry, and dried cherry intermingle, evoking a Beaujolais-esque profile. The wine's lively acidity is perfectly balanced by subtle herbaceous notes, with hints of anise and black pepper adding a touch of subtle savory goodness. The finish is refreshing and lingering, showcasing the wine's skillful blend of Mourvedre, Malbec, Verdelho, and Pinot Noir. The overall experience is a delightful dance of fruit, acidity, and minerality; you’ll crave more in your glass in no time.
Pairing: The 2020 Chillable Red pairs excellently with a wide range of dishes. From cheese and charcuterie to picnic-type foods, ham and cheese sandwiches, pizza, roast chicken, and bbq chicken. It also complements Spanish tapas, takeout tacos, sweet and sour chicken/pork/tofu, and even light pastas and salads.
The versatility of this wine doesn't end there. Its lively acidity and fruity undertones also make it a perfect companion for a variety of Asian dishes. For example, it pairs wonderfully with sweet and sour chicken, pork, or tofu (or check out the won ton recipe inspired by this note below. Note: Don’t go crazy on spice for pairings/this pairing!). Its freshness can stand up to the punchy flavors of takeout tacos, while its subtle fruitiness perfectly complements the flavors of a succulent barbecue chicken.
Spicy Won Tons With Chile Oil
Recipe from Tony Tan
Adapted by Alexa Weibel
About. The 2020 Swick Wines Chillable Red is a triumphant testament to the winemaking philosophy of Joseph Swick, winemaker and proprietor of Swick Wines. Born and raised in Oregon, Joe has spent a decade honing his skills globally, returning to his home state in 2013. His winemaking ethos revolves around the principles of minimal intervention, organic and biodynamic farming, and a zealous focus on the uniqueness of the Pacific Northwest's cold climate terroirs.
Swick Wines has established itself as a vanguard in a movement seeking to redefine the history of West Coast winemaking. Joe's innovative techniques include experimentation with skin-contact, field blends, and Pét-Nats, yielding wines that reflect their artist and terroir authentically, without the artificial gloss of conventional additives.
The Origin: Cancilla Vineyard and the Conley Vineyard in Yakima
A key part of the narrative of the 2020 Chillable Red is the Cancilla Vineyard, a certified organic vineyard since 1998, enveloped by the majesty of wooded mountains. The vineyard's exceptional Pinot Noir grapes and the dedicated viticulture form the foundation of Swick's artisanal wines.
The Conley Vineyard in Yakima, Washington, sitting at 1700 feet elevation with sandy soils, is the source of the Mourvedre and Malbec grapes. These grapes underwent 5-6 hours of skin maceration before a gentle press, followed by fermentation and aging in neutral French oak for 8 months.
This minimal intervention process results in a wine that's herbaceous on the nose, with hints of anise and black pepper. Fresh raspberry and dried cherry notes dominate the palate. Thanks to the short skin contact, this surprising incarnation of Malbec is light, very chillable, and drinks wonderfully.
Crafting the 2020 Chillable Red
The making of the 2020 Chillable Red is a story of patience and natural processes. A blend of Mourvedre and Malbec from the certified organic Conley Vineyard in Yakima, WA, Verdelho from the organically-practicing Sonrisa Vineyard in Rattlesnake Hills AVA, Zillah, WA, and direct press rosé Pinot Noir from Cancilla Vineyard, the wine underwent 22 months of slow, natural fermentation in barrels before the final blend was crafted.
This meticulously crafted blend offers an exciting, vibrant profile. The nose is full of cherry starburst and floral notes, layered with the soothing aroma of black tea. The palate bursts with crunchy red fruits, offering a Beaujolais-esque experience in terms of flavors and textures.
The Swick Signature
Swick's light reds, known for their vivacious tang and chill-ability, stand as a testament to the winemaker's innovative approach. Whether it's red-white grape co-ferments or short-maceration techniques, these wines are as diverse and colorful as a lava lamp, echoing Joe’s personal obsessions.
Despite the rainbow of terroirs and grapes, the wines share the signature Swick characteristics: subtle fruitiness, refreshing acidity, a solid mineral backbone, and a structure that's engaging rather than overpowering. These wines are not your typical Oregon offering, but they paint a vivid picture of their Pacific Northwestern roots.
