The 2009 Moscato d’Latah does a fine impersonation of a Moscato d’Asti from Italy’s Piedmont. Finished at less than 6% alcohol with 10% residual sugar and captured carbon dioxide to provide effervescence, it is a sexy, exotic, spicy wine with plenty of tropical fruit and terrific balance. A word to the wise, this wine goes down very easily so be careful!All of Latah Creek’s white wines are outstanding values.Tel. (509) 926-1164; www.latahcreek.com

Aromatic and appealing, this perfectly captures the pretty orange peel and citrus scents of the grape. In the mouth it’s sweet but buoyed by bright acids, the fruit clean and layered, bringing in streaks of cinnamon, honey, vanilla and tea as it rolls into a satisfying finish. ——P.G.(4/1/2011)—— 89