Steppe
Steppe produces wines from Columbia Valley, Washington's expansive high-desert plateau. The winery focuses on distinctive varietals suited to the region's intense sunlight and temperature swings. Stone Tree Vineyard Malbec, rated 90 by Wine Enthusiast, showcases the dark-skinned intensity the vineyard achieves. A Rhône-inflected red blend—Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, and Grenache—follows at 88 points, demonstrating the winery's comfort with Mediterranean and Spanish grapes in a continental climate. A Riesling rounds the portfolio at 86.5 points, capturing the aromatic potential of Washington's cool-climate whites. The lineup reflects Columbia Valley's capacity to ripen bold reds while preserving acidity and minerality in lighter wines.
Critics
Wine Enthusiast