2007
Quilceda Creek
“CVR” Red Wine
The vintage conditions in 2007 were a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but the fruit was beautiful. We had very little rain early in the spring and then there were heat spikes. But the temperatures evened out heading into harvest and because the heat spikes made the size of the grapes much smaller, their physiological ripeness was perfect. Our Cabernet Sauvignon was incredible in 2007, and since the fruit going into our Columbia Valley Red Wine comes from declassified lots that would otherwise be included in that ultra-premium wine, this is an impressive wine and a stellar value.
The 2007 expresses the richness and complexity of this fabulous vintage. As always, it is a medium-bodied and meant for early drinking. The blend is 72 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Merlot, 6 percent Cabernet Franc, and 2 percent Malbec, sourced from the Champoux, Discovery, Galitzine, Klipsun, Palengat, and Tapteil vineyards. Displaying black cherry fruit, roasted herbs, marzipan, cocoa, smoke and minerals, it has mouth-filling flavors, silky tannins, and is best enjoyed in its youth, although will provide plenty of pleasure over at least 15 years.
Paul Golitzin, Director of Winemaking
93 points
"You have to love the '07 vintage. This is drinking beautifully right now, though official release (September) is still a ways off. Rich and delicious, full-bodied and aromatic, with exotic barrel scents and a lovely mélange of chocolate, mocha, caramel and spice. But the fruit is the main story, and it's full, ripe and substantial-cherry and cassis, licorice and just a hint of leaf."
92 points
"The 2007 Red Wine is composed of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, with the balance Cabernet Franc and Malbec. As always, it is a great value offering a fragrant, already complex nose of confiture of black fruits, incense, and Asian spices. On the palate it is savory and elegant with a plush texture. It is likely to evolve for several years but there is no compelling reason to defer gratification."