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.
Matthews original intent on getting into the wine business was to create a flagship Bordeaux blend. The Red Wine has always been a benchmark in Washington state and beyond. Consistently using all five Bordeaux varietals. Matthews has been producing Cabernet Sauvignon driven wines with all of the power and elegance that made the Paulliac and St. Estephe regions famous, with the added intensity of Columbia Valley fruit.
This wines maceration times varied between 14-28 days depending on the lot and varietal. It was aged in 100% new French oak for 22 months. It was egg white fined and lightly filtered before bottling.
A nose of rich, dark fruits, currant, mild vanilla bean, exotic spices with subtle, caramelized notes from the new French oak. A fragrant, pretty, herbal character that provides layers of expression. The Merlot is pronounced on the nose and on the palate, providing a polished, almost seamless mouth feel. An elegant wine, held together with great acidity and structure.
A distinctive wine, full of personality, with subtle earthy, minty, herbal flavors weaving through the plush frame. Plum and spice notes play counterpoint as the finish lingers gently and impressively. Better than previously reviewed. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2010. 1,800 cases made. –HS
A full-bore Bordeaux blend with all five varieties. Two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon sets the backbone, and the wine unfolds with plenty of power, dark, plummy fruit and full, roasted espresso-like barrel flavors. If there’s a down spot it’s the acidic tang to the finish, which seems a bit jagged. - P.G. (6/1/2005)