Winemaker Notes
Beautiful aromas of black currants, cassis, plum jam, and toasty vanilla are followed by warm baking spices and strawberry purée with the introduction of air to the glass. The palate is dark and fleshy, with plush red fruits and a hint of vanilla bean. Vibrant mouthfeel with firm tannin structure, yet the wine maintains an elegant and nuanced profile. This is an example of how Washington State can make truly wonderful Cabernet Sauvignon.
Blend: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, 11% Merlot, 1% Malbec
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Inviting aromas of blackcurrants, fresh herbs and blackberries. Full-bodied with nice focus and persistence. Silky tannins carry well-ripened black fruit with notes of chocolate and walnut as well. Well structured and long. 75% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc, 11% merlot and 1% malbec.
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Wine Enthusiast
Sometimes it's about the velvet glove and sometimes it's just the enjoyment of the hammer. Three-quarters varietal, with the rest Cabernet Franc (13%), Merlot (11%) and Malbec, aromas of black fruit, bittersweet chocolate and baking spice lead to rich, full-feeling flavors that show depth, intensity and layering. It's bold but well balanced, with a lingering finish.
Editors' Choice
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.