2006 Leo Hillinger Pinot Noir (Germany)
Pinot Noir from Germany! We haven't seen this label for quite a while, and it's great to have it back. A very pure, light expression of raspberry and slightly tart cherry, with orange and sandalwood essence on the elegant and lengthy finish. Allow to breathe for at least half an hour, or decant and then pour back into the bottle to give it some air. Despite its light color and body, there is a fair amount of acidity in the wine allowing it to be paired with a number of bold dishes. It would be a knockout with something like Boeuf Bourguignon, grilled sausages, or herb roasted chicken. We bought all the rest of this so get it while it lasts. Again, be sure to allow this wine to breathe to give it the full range of flavors.

2007 Tsillan Cellars Estate Riesling (Chelan, Washington)
A superb Washington Riesling from an estate that Dave visited in the summer of 2010. Tsillan is an older spelling of "Chelan," and the region is Washington State's newest official appellation. There are some amazing things coming from Chelan, and we wanted to introduce you to a prime example. The 2007 Tsillan Estate Riesling has received rave reviews, and for good reason; its' style is more than a generous nod to traditional German Riesling, but also with a distinctly Washington style, meaning that it provides more emphasis on fruit. You may find this different from any other Riesling you have ever tasted, given its vibrant, off-dry style that both seems sweet and also delivers very tangy acidity all in one sip. Crisp, lively notes of lime, petrol (a classic for Riesling), and honeysuckle move on to play out in the body of the wine along with quince and pear flavors, finishing with an impressive zing of acidity on the lightly spicy-floral finish. There's some real complexity to be explored here. A fair amount is left, and we'd like to bring more in, so if you're a fan, tell us right away. Pairs nicely with scallops, halibut cheeks, or other white-fleshed seafood with a slightly sweeter nature.