The 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Bacchus Vineyard is light straw-colored and exhibits an alluring nose of citrus, herbs, new cut grass, and melon. On the palate it has a smooth texture, ripe savory, spicy flavors, and lively acidity. This lengthy effort which can be enjoyed over the next 12-18 months is an excellent value. If I was forced to name a single Washington winery offering the best value across the entire range of their portfolio, it might well be Arbor Crest.Tel. (509) 927-9463; www.arborcrest.com

6 Pungent aromas of concentrated stone fruits, bubble gum, a whiff of diesel and pine tar introduce a multidimensional wine with lip-smacking acidity. All stainless fermented, no malolactic, no acidification—just a clean, pure, natural and richly delicious wine, loaded with ripe, luscious peach, pear, papaya and apricot fruit.——P.G.(2/1/2011)—— 91