One of the annoying truisms of the wine biz is that many wine makers lie. Like a rug. Ask one how his current wines are, and he’ll say, “Oh, best we’ve ever made.” Ask him the identical question the next year, and he’ll say the same thing. So when they make claims about a particular vintage being “glorious” or “superlative,” I tend to roll my eyes. Still, they just might be right about 1998. The growing season in Washington was long and hot, so the fruit is very ripe and concentrated with flavor. The reds are just now being released, and they ought to be great. I’m not lying.

Sweet wines: not just for breakfast anymore

I’m a sucker for chocolates, cake, and pie—it’s a wonder I’m not a freaking blimp. But of all the temptations, what’s hardest to resist are dessert wines, because nothing caps off a meal better. I recently sampled the delicious 3 Rivers 1999 Late Harvest Gewrztraminer and found tasty spice and peach flavors. It’s sweet but not cloying. A half bottle (all you need) can be had for 10 bucks.

Dennis,

Hello, I must take issue with your response regarding bike tours in wine country. Many of my best days were spent in college drunk on a bike. Now, I know what you are thinking, but is there really any more of a victimless crime? How many people are injured by drunk bicyclists (other than the bicyclists themselves)? Riding drunk is a great way to learn about being responsible for one’s actions.

STEVE, BALLARD (still riding drunk on occasion)

Steve,

I corrected your typos and cleaned up your grammar so people wouldn’t think you’re an idiot. By the way, Steve, you’re an idiot. Certain laws were created to protect people from themselves. Please send me an e-mail whenever you feel the urge to ride a bike.

DENNIS

e-mail : wine@seattleweekly.com