Charles Smith’s unlikely rise to “rockstar winemaker” status is the stuff indie cult-classic films are made of. He became intrigued with wine as a teenager while working in the restaurant industry. He was impressed with “the guy who came in late, left early, and drank all night.” Charles spent a decade touring Europe as a rock band manager in Denmark before returning to the United States to immerse himself in the emerging music scene in Seattle, Washington. He found a way to explore his burgeoning interest in wine by opening a wine shop on Bainbridge Island, but Charles felt compelled to create the wines, not just to sell them. His goal was to make wine that proclaim, “I am from Washington.” We will taste:

Kung Fu Girl Riesling 2021 — White peach, mandarin orange and apricot are delivered with a core of minerality that makes this dry Riesling shimmer with energy and freshness. Fresh and bright aromas of jasmine, apricot, white peach and honeysuckle jump out of the glass. Focused on the palate, with beautifully balanced acidity and sweetness. Minerality, citrus and honey round out flavors. Blend: 93% Riesling, 4% Pinot Gris, 2% Sauvignon Blanc, 1% Muscat. 12.5% ABV.

Band of Roses Rosé 2020 — Vibrant and fresh on the nose with a vibrant perfume giving way to pink grapefruit, guava, tangerine, and passion fruit. Delivered on a silky palate with a strong backbone of noticeable minerality. Blend: 81% Pinot Gris, 13% Riesling, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. 12.5% ABV.

The Velvet Devil Merlot 2021 — Opening with aromas of black fruit, cedar, tobacco, and cassis, this full-bodied red wine blend Red grape wine's floral overtones and polished core of currant combine with its full body and velvet finish. Blend: 89% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Malbec. 13.5% ABV.

All are $16.99/$6. See you Friday!