Deep Ruby and opaque in the glass, I get aromas of fresh black fruit and forest floor, mushroom and dusty herbs. This cab is surprisingly drinkable at only three years of age. It’s full-bodied with high acidity and soft tannins. Kudos to the vineyard for delivering quality fruit, and the winemaking team for balancing out this relatively high alcohol (14.6%) wine.
I remember aspiring to this have wine many years ago while my drinking budget and palate were still developing. The production consistency and quality have been impressive over the years. This is an excellent wine from Chateau Saint Michelle and their Horse Heaven Hills estate vineyard. I would put this in a blind consumer tasting any day, especially compared to the drinkability of Napa Valley cabs at much higher price points.
This wine has only 20% new oak and therefore lends itself to drinkability, yet with structure. As such, this is a wine you can bring to dinner confidently. We paired this with baked parmesan polenta topped and a spicy Italian marinara sauce with sausage and peppers. It was a match made in Portland, Oregon. Winemaker Katie Nelson, explains why this vineyard and wine is so special.