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.
1997 Columbia Valley Red Wine
Philosophy
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.
Winemaking
At first look, the 1997 harvest appeared to be an average one. As ripening progressed, our top vineyards started showing tremendous potential. Harvest began on September 29th with Red Mountain Vineyards and ended November 11th with our upper valley sites. This lengthy ripening period gave great depth and color to the finished wine with an amazing amount of complexity from what started as an average vintage. Even before this wine was allowed to spend time in new French oak barrels, it showed good balance and richness. It is perfectly suited to be our finest vintage to date.
- Varietal Composition 71% Cabernet Sauvignon 18% Merlot 11% Cabernet Franc
- T.A. 0.63g/100mL
- pH 3.71
- Alcohol 13.8%
- Time in Barrel 18 Months
- Vineyards Elerding Hedges Estate Portteus Ciel du Cheval Carter Sunnyside
- Cases Produced 1,400
- Suggested Retail Price $35
- Drinkability Now-2012
From the Critics
89 Points: Wine Spectator
Smooth, ripe and appealing for its generous blackberry, spice and vanilla flavors swirling through the harmonious finish. Nice already. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2003. 1,400 cases made. –HS