Looking to cultivate a traditional European vibe to showcase his selection of Michael Florentino Cellars and Sherman Wines, proprietor Brad Sherman has expanded his footprint beyond Woodinville. The new location is in the heart of a thriving wine-tasting scene at SODO Urban Works in Seattle.
“We wanted to launch the new Sherman brand through our new location,” explains Brad. “That gave us French, Spanish and Italian varietals. Those three represent most of the Old World. I also spent a lot of time in Europe and wanted to create the old world look and feel.”
His first label, Michael Florentino Cellars, is a nod to Italian and Spanish varietal wines. Eventually he began putting his own name on a label designed for wine club releases with a focus on French grape varietals. “We brought in some Bordeaux grapes back in 2015 mainly to work into a larger blend. We did some barrel samples with our very active wine club members and volunteers, and they said it was too special to make a blend only,” says Brad. Thus, Sherman Winery was established.
Brad’s zeal for working with many different varietals sets him apart. “I cannot say I have not found a varietal that I wanted to work with!” he underscores. “The only problem I have is choosing what grapes I want from which AVA, as we can grow the best of almost all varietals with all the micro-climates we have in the state.”
The Seattle space is rustic, lit with overhead chandeliers and lined with comfortable, dark wood furniture and flooring to match. Bonus: it’s adjacent to nine other tasting rooms and is located at 3861 1st Ave S, Suite A, Seattle; or learn more online at www.oldworldtastingroom.com
Below are 3 wines we recently reviewed:
Michael Florentino Cellars 2012 Tempranillo, $28
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-94 pts.)
This muscular and rip red wine flows with rich dark cherry and black fruit, well integrated with cigarbox, cocoa, leather and vanilla bean flavors that stretch out on the lengthy finish, framed with dustry tannins. An great value for a wine of this vintage.
Sherman 2015 Snipes Mountain Grenache Reserve, $38
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding (91-94 pts.)
A rich, opulent style with vivid structure and perfumed undertones of red fruit that weave together dominant flavors of raspberry coulis, crushed black cherry, white pepper and warm spice. Exceptionally balanced.
Sherman 2018 Yakima Valley Marsanne, $26
Editor’s Choice – Excellent (90 pts.)
Broadly open-textured, this Rhone varietal white wine is marked by floral aromas and refreshing flavors of peach, white flower blossom, lemon and baking spice. There is good cut to the acidity and mineral notes that keep it lively on the complex finish.