VARTANYAN OFFERS WINE WITH EUROPEAN FLAIR
By Dan Radil

Bellingham Herald
/story/871858.html
April 14 2009

Washington winemakers come from all walks of life: retired engineers,
former dot-comers, and those who are simply influenced by a rich
history of family tradition.

For Margarita Vartanyan, owner and winemaker at Vartanyan Estate
Winery, the inspiration came from her husband Eugene’s family, who
has practiced winemaking for generations in their native Armenia. The
Vartanyans moved to the Bellingham area in 2002 and bought land to
begin their own vineyard and winemaking operations. Margarita opened
the business to the public last year, and has a full flight of current
releases available for purchase at the tasting room.

Her wines have a decidedly European flair, with a subtle emphasis on
fruit flavors along with several qualities that make them extremely
food-friendly.

Her 2006 Merlot ($14), for example, displays a nice savoriness, while
the 2005 Chardonnay ($24) is complex and flavorful, with touches of
apple, pear and toasty oak. Either wine should pair nicely with pork,
duck, or even a salmon entrée.

Also notable is the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon ($16), which is drinking
beautifully with hints of dark fruit flavors, supple tannins, and a
whisper of smoke on the finish. The 2006 Syrah ($26) also features
some nice dark berry on the palate, but the finish is soft and silky,
leaving an impression of both full-body and elegance.

Finally, the 2005 Trilogia ($30) is a must-try blend of three red
varietals. The 60-percent pinot noir base really shines through, with
gentle strawberry flavors and nice acidity, while cabernet franc and
merlot provide the wine with added depth and structure.

The tasting room is at 1628 Huntley Road, a mile north of Mount Baker
Highway off of Noon Road, and is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday
through Sunday. For more information, see

Dan Radil is a wine enthusiast who lives in Bellingham. Reach him
at