Vinous

• By Stephen Tanzer
  November/December 2009, IWC Issue #147 (link)

  (Owen Roe Cabernet Sauvignon Sharecropper's Columbia Valley) Subscribe to see review text.

Garagiste

• By Jon Rimmerman
  6/29/2009 (link)

  (SHARECROPPER Cabernet Owen Roe) Owen Roe Dear Friends, So many of you have asked for Owen Roe Cabernet or Merlot (at lesser prices) that it's become a thorn in my side. The portfolio is very difficult to source but we finally have something of interest today. With that said, this is for you... The Sharecropper's Cabernet is David O'Reilly's attempt to put the word "bargain" next to the Owen Roe marquis (two ideas that are not typically synonymous) and, in many respects, he's succeeded. Unfortunately for the consumer, I've heard rumblings of retail pricing on this wine in excess of $20, even over $25-30 and that is simply too high. It's just about right as the consumer can quaff with little regard for the entrance fee. In short, the 2007 Sharecropper's is a surprising little wine and it's finally begun to hit its stride. In my opinion, it was released too early and should have been held at the winery until this summer. What was once an angular, disjointed example six months ago has started to blossom into an intriguing example of a toned-down O'Reilly style that should only get better over the next 3-6 months - at this price point, there's not much to quibble about. While certainly not earth shattering (this wine is not going to make you give up your allocation of DuBrul), it is cut from the same philosophy and general style as the big brother Owen Roe wines. The 2007 Sharecropper's best foot forward is its ability to satisfy a wide range of palates - it will ease your backyard thirst-quenching quagmire when you are unsure of the proper bottle to open on hot dog/hamburger night. This is the Cabernet to uncork and leave out on the picnic table for guests to help themselves - if they drink it all, you can simply open another one. From the winery: ""With an oversupply of grapes, we decided to put some of our excess first-rate fruit into neutral barrels and essentially split the profits with the vineyards (sharecropping). Most of the fruit comes to us from Dr. Steve Elerding's Six Prong Vineyard in Alderdale. Plush and forward with fresh berry notes, this wine promises excellent cellaring potential." Certainly a commendable and forward-thinking attitude if you ask me. ONE SHIPMENT ONLY at this price (If we run out, there's a small parcel floating around the Seattle market in the $14-16 range as well) 2007 Owen Roe Sharecropper's Cabernet Sauvignon It will ship during the Fall shipping season. Thank you, Jon Rimmerman Garagiste Seattle, WA WA6490