Chateau Ste Michelle Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Region and Vineyards

The Columbia Valley is Washington State's most renowned wine region, celebrated for its unique terroir. The vineyards lie in the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains, which limits annual rainfall to just 150-200 millimeters (6-8 inches), allowing for precise control of vine growth through irrigation.

Warm, sunny days provide the heat necessary for ripening, while cool evening temperatures preserve the grapes' acidity, resulting in a perfect balance of flavor and structure. The sandy soils in this region are low in fertility and water retention, ensuring concentrated fruit with vibrant aromatics and depth. The growing season featured a mild summer and cool autumn, creating ideal conditions for the development of bright fruit flavors and balanced acidity.

Winemaking

Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Syrah, 7% Merlot, 2% Malbec, and 1% other red varietals, showcasing a rich, layered profile. The grapes were destemmed and inoculated with diverse yeast strains to enhance complexity.

Fermentation included gentle pumpovers to extract optimal color and flavor while maintaining soft, supple tannins. The wine was aged for 12 months in oak barrels, comprising 25% new French oak, 8% new American oak, and 67% neutral oak. This thoughtful aging process imparted subtle oak influence while allowing the wine's vibrant fruit character to shine.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby red with brilliant clarity.
• Aroma: Aromas of red and black fruit, including cherry, plum, and currant, with hints of vanilla and a touch of spice.
• Palate: A well-balanced wine with flavors of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and subtle cocoa. The tannins are smooth and velvety, leading to a long and elegant finish.

Did You Know?

Chateau Ste Michelle is Washington State's oldest winery, established in 1934, and has played a pivotal role in defining the region's reputation for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Beef tenderloin with mushroom sauce: The wine's rich fruit and soft tannins complement the tender, savory beef and umami-rich sauce.
• Pasta with Bolognese sauce: Its structure and vibrant acidity balance the hearty, meaty flavors.
• Grilled portobello mushrooms: The earthy mushroom flavors pair beautifully with the wine's complexity.
• Aged cheddar or Parmesan cheese: The wine's dark fruit and subtle spice balance the sharpness and nuttiness of these cheeses.

History of Chateau Ste Michelle

Founded in 1934, Chateau Ste Michelle has been a cornerstone in establishing Washington State as a world-class wine region. Originally operating under the name Pommerelle Company, the winery later rebranded as Chateau Ste Michelle in the 1960s, reflecting its commitment to premium winemaking and a focus on European varietals.

Chateau Ste Michelle is credited with introducing vinifera grape cultivation to Washington, playing a pivotal role in the development of the state’s wine industry. The winery’s collaboration with renowned international winemakers, such as Ernst Loosen from the Mosel for its Eroica Riesling and Piero Antinori from Tuscany for Col Solare, showcases its dedication to excellence and innovation. Today, Chateau Ste Michelle is celebrated as a leader in sustainable viticulture, owning 2,600 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards​.

Region and Vineyards

The Columbia Valley AVA, where Chateau Ste Michelle sources its grapes, is a diverse and expansive wine region in Eastern Washington. Protected by the Cascade Mountains, the area boasts a dry climate with abundant sunlight, warm days, and cool nights, ideal for growing premium varietals.

Chateau Ste Michelle’s estate includes some of Washington’s most iconic vineyards:

• Cold Creek Vineyard: Planted in 1973, it is one of the state’s oldest vineyards, producing powerful wines with excellent aging potential.
• Canoe Ridge Estate Vineyard: Situated in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, it is known for elegant and complex wines.
• Horse Heaven Vineyard: Renowned for Bordeaux varietals with finesse and grace.

These vineyards are LIVE and Salmon Safe certified, underscoring the winery’s commitment to sustainability​.

Wine Range of Chateau Ste Michelle

Chateau Ste Michelle offers a diverse portfolio of wines catering to a variety of palates:

• Columbia Valley Series: Approachable and balanced wines showcasing Washington’s varietal expressions, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, and Chardonnay.
• Indian Wells Series: Rich, opulent wines crafted from warm-climate vineyards.
• Special Sites Collection: Single-vineyard wines emphasizing terroir, such as Cold Creek and Canoe Ridge Estate.
• Ethos Reserve: Limited-production wines that represent the pinnacle of winemaking.
• Artist Series: Bordeaux-style blends featuring labels by renowned artists.
• Collaborations: Partnerships like Eroica Riesling (with Ernst Loosen) and Col Solare (with Piero Antinori).
• Limited Releases: Innovative small-lot wines exclusively available to club members and at the winery​.

Did You Know?

Chateau Ste Michelle is not only famous for its wines but also for its summer concert series held at its estate in Woodinville. This iconic event attracts world-class artists and is a celebrated tradition in the Pacific Northwest.