Chateau St. Michelle, Hogue and Columbia Crest also produce good Gewurztraminer, a varietal with some of the characteristics of Riesling, but with more elements of spice. In addition to making an interesting aperitif, Gewurztraminer is an especially good match with spicy Asian and Mexican food. If you do not mind sweeter wines, Chenin Blanc often provides good value. Chenin Blanc usually displays light flavors of peach, melon and citrus fruit. Washington State produces good Chenin Blanc, but for this varietal, we prefer to turn to Texas producers, such as Fall Creek and Messina Hof.
Muscat is another varietal that is generally off-dry, and is sometimes bottled as a dessert wine.
Muscat, also known as Moscato or Muscat Cannelli, has a wonderfully exuberant floral quality. Becker Vineyards produces an excellent Texas version, but the quintessential Muscat is Moscato d'Asti from Italy. The sparkling quality makes it seem festive, and its light sweetness gives way to a clean and refreshing finish. This wine goes down easy, and it is fortunate that it weighs in at less than six percent alcohol. Finally, for those interested in a Muscat-based dessert wine, we recommend Quady Essencia, made from orange Muscat.