2017

"The Quilceda Creek ‘Galitzine Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon has become quite a different animal than its ‘Columbia Valley’ brother. The more that this vineyard ages, the more divergent this wine becomes in my mind. This 2017 edition is almost entirely sourced from the Galitzine Vineyard (95%) with the remainder sourced from the ‘Mach One’ Vineyard. Following a three hour decant, the wine slowly begins to unveil layers of deep dark fruits with fresh sage, blueberry cordial and creosote tones that meld in the glass. The palate is massive at its core, with a plush, opulent texture. A thrilling backing of acidity lifts this wine that reveals ripe blackberries with mocha, tar, pipe tobacco and suggestions of blueberry pie. While obviously quite hedonistic, the wine has a fantastic sense of poise and balance, evening out the massive fruit and non-fruit flavors. The exceedingly good finish accentuates this scintillating new wine that has a long life ahead of it. This is Red Mountain at its finest. Drink 2022-2040"

"Lastly, and I think the standout in the lineup in 2017, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard is an incredible wine that’s a candidate for the wine of the vintage in 2017. Coming all from Red Mountain, its deep ruby/purple hue is followed by a mammoth-sized bouquet of white chocolate, candied violets, lead pencil shavings, and graphite, all grounded by loads of dark, meaty black and blue fruits. This beauty is full-bodied, has flawless balance, loads of ripe tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s more backward and structured than the Columbia Valley release, so give bottles at least 4-5 years. It will be a 30-year wine."

“The 2017 Galitzine Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is absolutely stunning. This utterly fascinating Red Mountain Cabernet begins with aromas of blackberries, blueberries and dark cherries which are laced with mocha, herbs, cedar, graphite, violets and hints of exotic spices. This full-bodied red is beautifully structured and polished, with a gorgeous round, velvety texture. It goes on to impress as rich layers of ripe, concentrated red and dark fruits continue to seamlessly expand through the voluptuous finish. This utterly fascinating Cabernet displays a wonderful combination of power and finesse and is already drinking beautifully upon release, yet it also possesses the potential for a drinking window that could span two decades. Composed of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon from Galitzine Vineyard and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon from Mach One Vineyard this is an absolute beauty from Quilceda Creek.”