2008
Quilceda Creek
“Palengat” Cabernet Sauvignon
From the beginning, the 2008 Palengat was dense, rich, and complex. The full-bodied wine exhibits floral and savory nuances of violet, plum, and cassis fruit melded with complex layers of anise, black tea, and soy. Aged in 100 percent new French oak for 22 months, it is a blend of 76 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 14 percent Cabernet Franc, 7 percent Merlot, and 3 percent Petit Verdot. The wine truly displays our passion for the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. We planted Palengat in 1997 to 2002, and 8.5 acre vineyard is 59 percent at a high-density level (2,270 vines per acre). Being planted in close proximity limits root spread along the surface of the vineyard, forcing the vines to go deep into the Sagehill soil for nourishment. This adds additional flavor components while also pushing the vines toward earlier maturity, thus the noticeable quality already apparent in these youngish vines.
The wine’s concentration is intense, but so too is its ripe fruit, and all is beautifully connected by its smooth and refined tannins. This should drink well through 2030 and beyond.
Paul Golitzin, Director of Winemaking
94 points
"The 2008 Palengat Proprietary Red Wine is made up of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, with the balance Merlot and Petit Verdot. The fruit was sourced entirely from the Palengat Vineyard. Pain grille, pencil lead, Asian spices, incense, violets, dried herbs, black currant, and blackberry aromas compose the bouquet of this impeccably balanced offering. It opens in the glass to reveal plush, succulent flavors, superb concentration, plenty of ripe tannin, and at least 4-5 years of aging potential. It will deliver optimum drinking from 2015 to 2028."