Estate: Chateau Ste. Michelle
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington State
Location: Drank at home on 2/10/2016
Tasting Note:
Chateau Ste. Michelle is one of the oldest wine estates out of Washington State. One venture that Chateau Ste. Michelle is known for is forming winery partnerships, such as with the Piero Antinori from Tuscany with the Col Solare Estate and with Ernst Loosen from Mosel with Eroica. Additionally, they are specifically known for two things. 1. Riesling and 2. several vineyards in Eastern Washington. The Eastern Washington vineyards include Canoe Ridge, Indian Wells and Cold Creek.
This specific bottling contains 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. These grapes came from all three of the Eastern Washington vineyards, 67% from Indian Wells vineyard, 26% from Cold Creek vineyard and 7% from the Canoe Ridge Estate. Aged in 51% new American and French oak for 16 months. The winemaker is Bob Bertheau.
Wine was light violet with a deep core. Lovely nose with quite a few different notes. Slightly savory, broken tree branches and blackberry notes. Solid acidity (6/10) and light tannins (4.5/10). Acidity gives the medium body a little bit of a bite or spiciness. Lots of darker fruits notes like blackberries and black cherries. Moderate finish that lingers for around 5 to 6 seconds. Slightly vegetal and earthy in the finish with some green peppers and dry slate rock. Drink till 2019.
Rating: 88
