Winemaker Comments

The Columbia Valley's growing seasons are remarkably consistent, but 2005 was exceptional. Summer temperatures were quite warm resulting in extremely small berry size, and then the heat backed off just enough in September to ripen the grapes without rushing physiological maturity. The results are deeply colored, beautifully balanced wines with tremendously dense, ripe aromas and flavors.


The 2005 Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot) is loaded with blackberry, blueberry, plum and cassis with nuances of dark chocolate and violets. Classically structured, this complex wine has remarkable elegance and persistence on the long, pure finish. Approachable now, it should reach maturity around 2012 and age for 25 or more years. While we are particularly proud of the last three vintages of our flagship wine, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon easily rivals them as one of the best wines our estate has ever produced.

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