2016 L'Ecole No. 41 Columbia Valley Semillon
SKU #1373994
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2016 Semillon (there's 14% Sauvignon Blanc) is another fine white. Candied limes, citrus blossom, and a hint of honeysuckle emerge from this medium-bodied, balanced, textured white that has loads of fruit, yet finishes cleanly. It too is a good value.
Winemakers Marty Clubb and Mike Sharon are behind this impeccably run estate, which is one of the few in Washington that sees good distribution in the United States. Their entry-level wines are always impeccably made and great values, and their top tier releases can compete with the best of Washington State.
(4/2018)
James Suckling
Some grassy edges to the lemon citrus on offer here. This has a handy acid drive,delivering a fleshy and gently biscuity finish. Drink now.
(5/2018)
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2016 Columbia Valley Sémillon exhibits aromas of waxy lemon rind, followed by a medium-bodied, moderately textural, open-knit white that's clean and correct in every respect. For the modest tariff, it represents a definite success, and given Sémillon's capacity to age, it might even surprise with a year or two in the cellar.
(WK)
(6/2018)
Vinous
Pale, bright yellow. Musky scents of lemon peel, apricot, fig and honeysuckle, plus hints of vanilla and toast from the oak. A fairly full, velvety style but without quite the density, nuance or definition of the Klipsun Sémillon-Sauvignon Blanc. Finishes with a hint of warmth but also a firming citrus character and no shortage of acidity. (ST)
(10/2017)
Wine Enthusiast
Very few producers make a varietally labeled offering of Sémillon in the state, with this one including 14% Sauvignon Blanc. It's a shame as the variety clearly succeeds here. The aromas bring notes of fig, almond butter and spice followed by dry fruit flavors backed by lemony acidity. It needs some time to fully come together. (SS)
(12/2017)
K&L Notes
"L’Ecole N° 41 is a third-generation family-owned, artisan winery located in the historic Frenchtown School depicted on our label. Founded in 1983, we were the third winery established in the Walla Walla Valley. Our focus is to produce ultra-premium, distinctive wines that reflect the unmistakable typicity of Washington State and the unique terroir of our Walla Walla Valley vineyards. We grow and make 100% of our wine. Today we are at the forefront of sustainable farming in the Walla Walla Valley, notably with our Estate Ferguson and Estate Seven Hills Vineyards, both of which are certified sustainable and certified Salmon Safe. L’Ecole is one of the most honored wineries in Washington State and has garnered national and international accolades over the years for producing superior quality wines. We are proud to be recognized by Wine & Spirits Magazine as a Top 100 Winery of the Year fourteen times."