The latest releases of these reserve help remind us that Columbia Crest deserves to be mentioned in the discussion when talking about Washington state’s premier producers of Cabernet Sauvignon. After all, remember that Wine Spectator named Ray Einberger’s 2005 Reserve Cab as its No. 1 wine of 2009. His successor, the talented Juan Muñoz Oca, showcases the telltale power and age-worthiness of Red Mountain reds in this selection, which opens with hints of chips from a Ghiradelli dark chocolate bar, black cherry, blackberry and coffee. On the attack is a smooth delivery of mouth-filling tannins and plenty of fruit to support that structure with red plum, cherry and black currant. The theme of dark chocolate continues — a product of the barrel program of 18 months in 100% new French oak — all the way through the terrific finish of black olive, anise, vanilla and espresso grounds.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 175 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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