Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine information: Founded over 20 years ago Coumbia Crest is one of the foremost wine producers in Washington State. In 1978 Columbia Crest planted grapes in eastern Washington’s Horse Heaven Hills along the Columbia River. The appellation straddles the 46th (north) parallel—the same latitude as central France. Not surprisingly, the major Bordeaux varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) do well in the Columbia Valley. The large estate and riverside location gives the winemakers a wide range of microclimates to work with. Variations in the soils deposited by the river, the angle and orientation of riverside slopes, and temperature variations comprise the “terroir”. The vineyards are also protected from the Pacific Northwest's rain by the Cascade Mountains, which prevent precipitation from moving into the state’s interior. This “rain shadow” gives three great advantages - firstly, there are hundreds of days of sunshire a year, so grapes ripen fully. Secondly, the valley receives only 6 to 8 inches of rain a year, so it is easy to carefully regulate irrigation. Thirdly, it's a rare year when rain adversely affects any part of the growing or harvest season. The Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvigon is harvested from vineyards located predominantly on the Horse Heaven Hills (which contributes texture and body) and the Wahluke Slope (for aromatics and complexity).

Tasting Notes: “Spice, blackberries and cassis aromas fill the nose followed by a medium-bodied, concentrated and satin textured mid-palate; the long finish offers silky tannins and dark chocolate notes.” Ray Einberger, Columbia Crest Winemaker.

 
     

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