Cabernet Sauvignon 'Columbia Valley'

Score

92

"A polished and full-bodied cabernet with creamy layers of blackcurrants, cocoa powder, nutmeg and blackberry fruit, surrounded by ripe and velvety tannins. Delicious finish. 77% cabernet sauvignon, 13% merlot and 10% cabernet franc. Drink or hold."

Score

94

"Mike and Carolyn Januik established their first winery in 1999, at a time when Washington state was still an emerging wine region and Columbia Valley was just being realized. They went on to start a second winery, Novelty Hill, and moved their operations from Walla Walla to Woodinville, the center of the state's wine industry, just north of Seattle. This Columbia Valley Cab wine has a soft nose with red fruit and hints of pepper. That softness carries to the palate with a rich mouthfeel. A slight bitter note adds to the complexity on the finish."

Score

90

"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is understated, displaying a balanced blend of sweet herbs and musky black currant. It's soft and pliant, with depths of tart red and black fruits guided by brisk acidity. The 2021 possesses lovely balance, finishing lightly structured and fresh, with a lingering tinge of bitter cocoa."

Score

91

"The aromatic combination of blackberries and lavender-scented Epsom salts is quite elegant. It will also make you long for a bath to be drawn. Bold acidity showcases flavors like black cherry, orange-pekoe tea and spicy clove. The wine's texture is sleek and slippery. —M.A."

Score

90

"A red with focus and good energy, this offers handsome blackberry, dried herb and spice flavors that end with fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2031. 2,450 cases made.—T.F."