Winemaker Notes
Aromas of black cherry and dusty eucalyptus and flavors of cassis, cranberry and dark fruits have been the hallmarks of Pursued by Bear Cabernet Sauvignon since its debut in 2005. The 2016 vintage offers similar characteristics, with subtle aromas of cigar box and a hint of mocha also present across a textured mouthfeel that gives way to a long, persuasive finish. Blend: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot.
Professional Ratings
-
Jeb Dunnuck
Incorporating 10% Merlot and brought up in new oak, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a deep purple hue as well as fabulous notes of crème de cassis, tobacco leaf, damp earth, chocolate, and truffle. Rich and medium to full-bodied, with beautiful purity, it's a fabulous wine from this estate. It will evolve for two decades.
-
James Suckling
A firm, fresh red with lovely currant, dark-chocolate and light vanilla character. Medium to full body and a linear, tight finish. This has very pretty balance and structure. A blend of 90% cabernet sauvignon and 10% merlot. Better after 2022.
-
Wine Spectator
Shows poise and structure, with elegantly expressive black cherry, dusty mocha and allspice notes that build tension toward fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2029.
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Framed by dense, chewy dark fruit essence, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon opens with aromas of Christmas spice, leather, blackberry tart, cassis, currant, vanilla and cinnamon baking spices with no hard edges. Full-bodied, the wine is generous and offers a balanced structure across the mid-palate with succulent fine-grained tannins and ends with a long, winding finish, highlighting elements of chocolate-covered blueberries, mocha and vanilla spice.
-
Wine Enthusiast
Enchanting aromas of green coffee bean, black cherry, graphite, black licorice and dried flowers are followed by well-balanced, palate-coating dark-fruit and coffee flavors. The tannins are combed to a fine sheen.
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.