The 2008 Luminesce Seven Hills Vineyard is composed of 70% Semillon and 30% Sauvignon Blanc Primary fermentation occurred in seasoned French oak with subsequent 30% malolactic fermentation and a total of 4 months barrel aging. It sports an inviting bouquet of melon, papaya, and tropical aromas leading to a round, smooth-textured, dry wine with mineral notes and pit fruit flavors emerging on the palate. This savory, spicy, well-balanced offering will drink nicely for another 2-3 years. L’Ecole No. 41, under the leadership of Marty Clubb, is one of Walla Walla’s pioneers, the third modern day winery in the Valley. Over the years the winery has prospered, outgrown the namesake schoolhouse, and now is about to outgrow the charming label which may have contributed to its fame. Be that as it may, L’Ecole now produces about 35,000 cases with distribution in all 50 states and abroad. Despite the expansion, quality has remained consistently excellent as has pricing, no doubt the main reason why L’Ecole seems to have survived the recession without too much pain.Tel. (509) 525-0940; www.lecole.com

Toasty and precise, it offers a wonderful panoply of pears, orange peel, hints of banana and tropical fruits, with a luscious, creamy midpalate. The finish lingers gracefully, adding details of spice.——P.G.(11/1/2009)—— 91