Region and Vineyards
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from Columbia Valley, Washington’s premier AVA, known for its long growing season, dramatic diurnal shifts, and volcanic, gravelly soils. These conditions promote excellent phenolic development, natural acidity, and intensity of flavor. The region's latitude, similar to Bordeaux, offers extended daylight hours during the ripening season, allowing for slow, even maturation.
Quilceda Creek has long emphasized complete control over its vineyard sources, employing precision viticulture to achieve the highest possible grape quality. The 2020 vintage was shaped by a growing season of small berry sizes, leading to naturally low yields and a higher skin-to-juice ratio. This resulted in wines of exceptional density, concentration, and aromatic complexity. The estate’s commitment to detailed farming and site selection is evident in every glass.
Winemaking
The 2020 vintage is composed of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak barrels sourced from elite coopers Darnajou and Taransaud. This intensive oak regime contributes a fine-grained structure and a luxurious overlay of spice, toast, and richness to the already powerful fruit core. After barrel aging, the wine rested for an additional 10 months in bottle before release to ensure full integration.
Director of Winemaking Paul Golitzin, nephew of Quilceda Creek’s founder, upholds a style that is both opulent and impeccably balanced. No fining or filtration is performed, preserving the wine’s purity and character. The house style is defined by bold extraction, polished tannins, and a seamless marriage of fruit and oak—qualities that have earned Quilceda Creek numerous 100-point scores and a cult following among collectors.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep, opaque ruby with a near-black core and vivid clarity.
- Aroma: Aromatically complex with blackberry, blueberry, and plum layered over sandalwood, anise, and black walnut. Accents of hoisin sauce and cocoa nibs add depth.
- Palate: Dense and richly textured with compact layers of dark fruit, exotic spice, and a core of polished tannins. The finish is long, structured, and luxurious, promising exceptional aging potential.
Did you know?
Quilceda Creek, founded in 1978, was one of the first Washington wineries to focus exclusively on Cabernet Sauvignon. It has received seven 100-point scores from Wine Advocate, more than any other North American Cabernet outside of Napa Valley. This consistent excellence has positioned it among the most revered cult wineries in the U.S., and the 2020 vintage continues that legacy with poise and precision.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Roast venison loin with juniper and blackberry sauce: Matches the wine’s bold fruit and spice with gamey elegance.
- Beef short rib with espresso glaze: The wine’s richness and oak warmth echo the meat’s deep, slow-cooked character.
- Duck magret with hoisin glaze: Resonates with the wine’s dark plum, cocoa, and Asian spice notes.
- Aged cheddar or Fourme d’Ambert: Offers a savory, salty contrast to the wine’s concentration and polished texture.
