ADVERTISING: Advertorial — Three states, three wines, one great adventure

As the seasons change, so do our palates, and our August Explorer Club release brings you back home with a selection of wines that showcase the excitement of America's West Coast. This quarter, we're featuring three exceptional wines from California, Oregon, and Washington, each representing the unique terroir and winemaking traditions of their respective regions. 

Our journey begins in Oregon's Willamette Valley, a region renowned for its cool-climate wines. The King's Ridge Chardonnay is a shining example of why this area has become a go-to for Burgundy lovers seeking New World alternatives. 

Willamette Valley's climate, with its long, cool growing season, creates ideal conditions for Chardonnay. The King's Ridge takes full advantage of this, producing a wine that balances crisp acidity with rich fruit flavors. On the nose, you'll find aromas of green apple, pear, and a hint of citrus blossom. The palate offers a harmonious blend of tropical fruit notes, subtle oak influence, and a characteristic mineral undertone that speaks to the valley's diverse soils. 

What makes this Chardonnay unique is its restraint. Unlike some of its California counterparts, the King's Ridge eschews heavy-handed oak treatment in favor of letting the fruit and terroir shine. The result is a wine that's both refreshing and complex, perfect for pairing with seafood dishes or enjoying on its own. 

Moving north, we find ourselves in Washington's Columbia Valley, a region that has been turning heads with its robust red wines. The For Fool's Sake Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to why Washington has become a powerhouse in American wine production. 

The Columbia Valley's unique geography, shaped by ancient floods and volcanic activity, creates a diverse landscape of soils perfect for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine showcases the region, with its bold fruit flavors and structured tannins. 

On the nose, For Fool's Sake presents an enticing bouquet of black currant, blackberry, and a hint of cedar. The palate is equally impressive, with layers of dark fruit, subtle tobacco notes, and a touch of vanilla from oak aging. What sets this Cabernet apart is its balance of power and elegance. The tannins are firm but not overwhelming, providing a backbone that suggests this wine will age beautifully over the next 5-10 years. 

Our final stop brings us to California's Paso Robles, a region that has been pushing the boundaries of winemaking with its innovative blends and bold flavors. If You See Kay is a perfect representation of this maverick spirit. 

While Paso Robles is known for its Zinfandel and Rhône-style blends, If You See Kay breaks the mold. This wine is primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, but it's blended with Petit Verdot, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, and Syrah, creating a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional California red blends. 

The nose is explosive, with aromas of ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, and a hint of fresh herbs. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and lush, with flavors of black cherry, cassis, and a touch of espresso. The addition of Petit Verdot adds depth and structure, while the Syrah brings a peppery spice that lingers on the finish. 

What makes If You See Kay truly unique is its unapologetic boldness. This is not a wine for the faint of heart — it's a big, juicy, in-your-face California red that demands attention. Yet, despite its power, it manages to maintain a sense of balance and drinkability that keeps you coming back for more. It's also a great choice for those nights when you want a wine that's going to make a statement. 

As we wrap up our journey through the West Coast, it's clear that American wine has never been more exciting or diverse. From the elegant Chardonnays of Oregon to the bold Cabernets of Washington and the innovative blends of California, there's something for every palate. 

Our Explorer Club is designed to help you navigate this rich landscape of flavors. With three carefully selected bottles quarterly, it's the perfect way to start your wine journey or expand your taste buds. Whether you're looking for that special bottle for a dinner party or just a reliable "Tuesday night" wine, our Explorer Club has you covered. 

So why not join us on this vinous adventure? With each release, you'll have the opportunity to explore new regions, try new varietals, and discover your next favorite wine. After all, the joy of wine is in the exploration — and we're here to be your guide every step of the way. Cheers and see you soon at The Dinner Party!

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Laura Olson is co-owner of The Dinner Party along with her partner, Joe Petersen. You can also follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/#!/dinnerpartyshop or visit www.thedinnerpartyshop.com.