Winemaker Notes
Brisk and bright, this wine is a vivid expression of Washington’s untamed beauty. Aromas of wild strawberry, Rainier cherry and ripe plum rise from the glass, layered with hints of baking spice and rustic earth. On the palate, a dynamic rush of pomegranate and raspberry unfolds, balanced by the depth of candied fig and juicy plum. A perfect palate weight carries the wine to a lovely, enduring finish.
Blend: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 4% Malbec 2% Syrah
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley is dark and intense, with an array of mocha, plum sauce and sage forming its bouquet. It is juicy to the core, with gobs of ripe red and black fruits supported by brisk acidity. The palate is stained with primary concentration, finishing long yet not overly tannic.
Washington produces so many exciting wines, and that definitely includes Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. With over 10,000 acres under vine, Cabernet Sauvignon is now the most widely-grown varietal in the state. Terrific examples hail from sub-appellations like Red Mountain, Wahluke Slope, Horse Heaven Hills and Walla Walla Valley. One of the fascinations of these Columbia Valley Cabs is that they so often seem to have one foot in the New World and one in the Old. Representing the former are characteristics like the ripe, forward fruit that results from long sunny days during the growing season (up to two hours longer than in much of California). Old World similarities include an undeniable brightness from acidity, as well as notes of herbs, graphite and a dusty, sometimes gravelly minerality.
Whether you’re looking for a budget bottle for everyday enjoyment, or a stellar, world-class wine with tremendous aging potential, Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon wines can deliver the goods! Among the many fine options are bottles from Columbia Crest, Chateau Ste. Michelle, L’ecole #41, Quilceda Creek and Leonetti.