Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Starting off the Bordeaux varieties and tasted out of barrel, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon DuBrul, which is made from 100% Cabernet and aging in 60% new French oak, gives up big, plum, cedar, spice, leafy herbs and mint in its full-bodied, voluptuous and up-front feel. Gaining depth, tannic grip and structure with time in the glass, it’s a gorgeous bottle of Cabernet that will have two decades or more of prime drinking. Range: 92-94
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Wine Spectator
Fresh and vibrant, with juicy currant and blackberry fruit, forming a compact beam that glints with mint and floral overtones. The tannins modulate well with the flavors, finishing harmoniously. Drink now through 2020. 111 cases made
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.