The Isenhower portfolio begins with the only white wine presented, the 2008 Snapdragon, a blend of 55% Roussanne and 45% Viognier sourced from the Ciel du Cheval Vineyard in the Red Mountain AVA. It was fermented and raised in stainless steel with no malolactic fermentation. Light gold-colored, it exhibits a fragrant nose of honeysuckle, bee’s wax, melon, pit fruits, and mineral. Round on the palate with an excellent acid structure and plenty of savory fruit, this impeccably balanced, lengthy wine will provide pleasure over the next 2-3 years. Brett and Denise Isenhower began their Walla Walla-based winery in 1999. Their response to recessionary times has been to cut production and move primarily to direct sales. As a result, they have established a tasting room in Woodinville (where the customers are located).Tel. (509) 526-7896; www.isenhowercellars.com

The 2007 Snapdragon is a tasty blend of 72% Roussanne and 28% Viognier aged in stainless steel. The nose offers up enticing notes of honey, peach, and melon. Crisp and refreshing on the palate, this nicely balanced wine has a fruity, pure finish. Isenhower Cellars- first vintage was in 1999 and current production is 4000 cases. Although located in Walla Walla, the winery sources fruit from a variety of AVAs. Two excellent quaffers are the Snapdragon and the Rose.Tel. (509) 526-7896; www.isenhowercellars.com

This year’s Snapdragon is a 55-45 Roussanne/Viognier blend—racier than the ’04 but just as tasty, with a mouth-cleaning, yeasty freshness. The fruit is light and interesting, a mix of pink grapefruit, pineapple, green apple and a lick of honey. ——P.G.(3/1/2007)—— 90

This 70-30 Roussanne/Viognier blend is rich and yeasty, a great food wine. Creamy and fresh, it shows light citrus, grapefruit and a tiny hint of honeyed sweetness. Think Thai, Creole, curry or seafood with this gem. 530 cases produced. ——P.G.(4/1/2006)—— 90