School is Out for the Summer, But L'Ecole is Still in Session!

School houses everywhere will soon be closing their doors for the summer months ahead, but there is one school house that you can bet will keep their doors open - -

L’Ecole Nº 41 winery is located in the historic Frenchtown School just west of Walla Walla at Lowden. The original Frenchtown School was a log cabin built in 1870 along the shore of the Walla Walla River. The little school house was eventually rebuilt in 1915 in its current grand state. The name, L’Ecole N° 41 is French for “the school” and the school house was located in school district 41.

The signs of an old school are still visible from the chalkboards, school bell, and play ground; but instead of de-tention, the a-ttention is on terroir-driven, distinctive and expressive wines. 

Here are a couple examples of  L’Ecole Nº 41 wines that are a must for your summer sipping. Grab them now as they will not be around for long.

L’Ecole Nº 41 Chenin Blanc - 2011: from 30 year old vineyards in the Yakima Valley, this fresh and fruity white wine shows off with floral aromatics of lavender and orange blossoms.  A Vouvray-style of Chenin, making it a great wine for food, brings to the palate fruits from the orchard such as apples and apricots, while ending with a crisp and bright finish. 

The 2011 Indian summer was prolonged into October bringing to the fruit longer hang time on the vines which means concentrated flavors and crisp acidity due to the cool evenings.  A wonderful pairing with spicy Thai dishes, arroz con pollo, and soft buttery cheeses. There isn't a lot of Chenin Blanc grown in the state of Washington, so when you have the opportunity, seize a bottle, chill and enjoy. 

L’Ecole Nº 41 Grenache Rosé - 2011: from the Alder Ridge Vineyard at Horse Heaven Hills, this gorgeous pink nectar is just a show-off; from the color, nose and to the finish. The nose is that of orange peels and roses - the perfect summer purfume. To the palate the citrus continues with tangerines, bright berries, rose petals and spice ending with a lipsmacking tartness. 

The Alder Ridge Vineyard overlooks the majestic Columbia River which the heat of the day and the coolness of the evenings brings to the Grenache bright and natural acidity along with a brilliant color. The L’Ecole Nº 41 Rosé is produced in small lots and one of their exclusive wines. If you love traditional French rosés, this is a must. Very food friendly with fruit salads, seafood, and light pizzas.

Have a great time sipping in "Summer School!"