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yards within the acclaimed Columbia Valley and producing distinctive wines in a definitive Washington style. All Genesis wines are priced at $15.99. The Hogue Reserve wines showcase the highest-quality fruit from various regions where growers have matched the best clones with specific terroir. These small-production Reserve wines have extended aging, noticeable in the layers of complexity and elegance, and are all priced at $29.99. Not Done Yet As in all other great growing regions, growers and wineries in Washington are continuing to experiment with new varieties. The uniqueness of the Columbia Valley, the incredible Columbia River and the longer summer days create fruit with very high acid and intensity. The Yakima Valley is a whopping 30 miles wide by 80 miles long and offers enormous future potential. "We're not done planting yet!" Both brothers chime in. "This beautiful wine country grew up around us. Never in our wildest dreams would we have imagined this scenario." The Hogue Cellars' trio of tiers: Genesis, Hogue Cellars and Hogue Reserve. Screwcap Pioneers The Hogue Cellars has been a pioneer in the industry, conduct- ing extensive research on, and testing of, screwcaps. More than 3,200 samples were tested over a five-year span. Results showed that wines aged under Saranex-lined screwcaps offered better results than aluminum, tin-lined, synthetic or traditional cork closures. The nearly airtight seal provides superior retention of wine quality characteristics, without unwanted oxidation. The Hogue Cellars Director of Director of Winemaking for The Hogue Cellars is Co Dinn, speaking for a video production. Winemaking Co Dinn tells THE TASTING PANEL, "Our studies prove that high-quality white and red wines can be sealed and preserved with screwcaps. We believe that our extensive research and proven results will help to positively shift the perception of screwcaps with consumers." The Hogue Cellars has since com- mitted 100% of its production, including the premium tier Genesis and Reserve wines, to screwcap closures with Saranex liners. january/february 2012 / the tasting panel / 45