After years as a successful Yakima Valley farmer, Rob Valicoff Jr. was inspired by his late wife Stephanie to plant a four-acre vineyard on the farm in 2011. Rob and Stephanie’s intention was to make enough wine to share with friends and family. The first vintage was bottled in 2013. With such fertile soil in the Rattlesnake Hills area, that four-acre vineyard soon grew beyond a hobby label into a small commercial winery.
Valicoff Estates debuted in 2017 with four reds with the assistance of winemaker Robert Smasne. Today, Valicoff Estate Wines offers tastings by appointment only.
Open by appointment: call (509) 592-9654; or find more information about this winery online at www.valicoffestates.com
Valicoff Estates 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
90 pts.
Deliciously ripe, offering rich blackberry, currant paste and dark cherry flavors infused with pastry dough backed by graphite and cedar accents on the spice-tinged finish. $25
Valicoff Estates Wines 2016 Syrah Rattlesnake Hills
90 pts.
Appealing savory aromas of dried herbs, cedar and spice mix with lively boysenberry, black currant and violet flavors of the firm, textured mouthfeel (palate). Ends dry, with hints of baker’s chocolate and deeper notes of white pepper. $30
Valicoff Estates Wines 2016 Malbec Rattlesnake Hills
89 pts.
Essence of lavender is highlighted with fresh blackberry, plum skin and pomegranate flavors. This juicy red is backed by solid structure that stays tightly coiled, with violet and spice notes that deepen on the expressive finish. $25