Standing Strong

If the 2018 vintage in Washington were a novel, it would be a page-turner until the final chapter. But despite a hot summer and other challenges, the state’s winemakers were rewarded, producing their best wines since the classic-rated 2012s. It wasn’t easy but that’s an increasingly familiar scenario as growers and winemakers are working harder to uphold quality as Washington's summers grow incrementally hotter. Get Wine Spectator senior editor Tim Fish’s full report and vintage rating for the state’s white and red wines, plus top quality and value picks among Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling and more.