Pure, class defining

Matthews strives to produce wines that show the incredible diversity of Washington State. From our classic Cabernet Sauvignon driven reds, to our revered Sauvignon Blanc.

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Philosophy

The Claret for Matthews has always filled the traditional role of a second selection wine in a winery with a flagship blend. Traditionally focused more on elegance than on structure, like the Red Wine. The Claret has always been a tremendous value for our customers. Showing clean ripe fruit and a much more modest oak program, the Matthews Claret leads a segment of value driven every day wines.

Growing Season

The summer was hot and arid, and by mid-August, there was concern that flavors were not keeping up with the soaring sugar levels. Just as harvest was getting underway, cool temperatures and a modest amount of rain arrived, slowing crush for about two weeks and giving the grapes more hang time.

Winemaking

This year was rare in the life of Matthews as an eventual decision was made to declassify all of the Red Wine into the Claret. This bumped the usual neutral oak of the past clarets up to about 50% new and 50% used French oak. This added structure and aromatics to the Claret and produced what we think is a tremendous wine for the price. A hard decision was made but we think that you will enjoy the results.

T.A. 0.67g/100mL
pH 3.92
Alcohol 14.7%
Time in Barrel 20 Months
Winemaker Matthew Loso
Cases Produced 3,028
Suggested Retail Price $30
Drinkability Now- 2012

From the Critics

91 Points: Wine Enthusiast

Because he blends shortly after fermentation, Matt Loso’s wines attain a seamless complexity early on; it’s a hallmark of the winery. This beautifully crafted Claret has no rough edges; in fact, no edges at all. It is a supple, elegant wine, loaded with fruit flavors that run from berry to cherry to plum, while the oak gently adds spice and toast. — P.G. (12/1/2007)

93 points - Wine & Spirits

Firm and massive, this wine blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from vineyards that include Klipsun and Cold Creek. The aroma is similar to spiced dark chocolate coating black cherries. It's powerful stuff: The dark fruit has an herbal amaro-like grip that lasts on the finish and knocks you back with its intensity. For a dry aged steak. (W & S, 2/08)