2021
Quilceda Creek
“CVR” Red Wine
This is the first Quilceda Creek wine to be released from the remarkable 2021 vintage. 2021 was one of the warmest growing seasons on record. Bud break occurred in early April, ahead of historical averages. In late June, a “heat dome” descended upon the west coast, shattering previous temperature records. Our detailed focus on vine nutrition allowed us to cultivate incredibly healthy vines that could withstand these high temperature swings. The heat proved to be beneficial, as it enabled ideal cluster and berry size, with the ability to stress the vines and control all aspects of growth. Veraison began in mid-July, in-line with recent years but early by historical standards. Temperatures cooled back down in September and October, allowing for extended hang time and optimal ripeness. Historically low yields, high Brix and good acidity, especially given the warmth of the year, were hallmarks of this vintage.
96 points
"This blend from the winery’s three different estate vineyards is 89% cabernet sauvignon, 5% merlot, 4% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc. Beautiful fruit flavors are vibrant, ripe and delicious, with blue, red and black fruit shining through moderate tannins and backed by fresh acidity. Milk chocolate, cinnamon and hints of cedar. Best from 2027."
96 points
"Possibly the finest rendition of this cuvée to date, the 2021 CVR Columbia Valley Red Wine is exceptional, and while a second wine, it's up with the top-tier wines in the vintage. Ripe cassis, spicy oak, dried tobacco, and flowery incense notes all define the aromatics, and this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a plush, layered, elegant mouthfeel, and a gorgeous finish. It's one of those do-not-miss wines. Drink bottles over the coming 15 years."
95 points
"Arguably the finest ’CVR’ yet produced, this 2021 edition is composed of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon with 5% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and the remainder Cabernet Franc — which is a departure from the 2020 vintage which was nearly all Cabernet. The wine spent 20 months in 50% new French oak before bottling. This displays intriguing herbal notes from the Petite Verdot and Cabernet Franc. This displays more aromatic layers than the 2020 bottling. The texture is really outstanding as this is silky smooth throughout the drinking experience. Layers of mocha, tar and anise collide with copious minerals and great tension considering the warmth of the vintage. Drink 2023-2035."
94 points
"A blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc, the 2021 CVR Columbia Valley Red Wine showcases a bright profile of just-ripe, juicy red fruit that bursts with freshness, revealing layers of complexity. Flavors of dark cherry, plum reduction and a dusty blackberry essence rush over the palate of this medium to full-bodied wine with a ripe attack, succulent, melting tannins and a well-balanced structure. Concluding with a long, lingering and food-friendly finish, this impressive blend is perhaps the best CVR to date. The wine aged 20 months in 100% French oak. 58,680 bottles were produced."