2008 Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

View Winemaker's Tasting Notes Video

Philosophy

Cabernet Sauvignon is without a doubt the most complete of all the Bordeaux varietals. Because it easily accommodates an individual winemaker’s preferences, it can be vinted in so many diverse styles. Washington Cabernet is known for having plenty of acidity and structure but not a great amount of opulence, the occasional very warm, drawn out vintage notwithstanding. The Matthews 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the natural texture of the fruit, while still allowing some of that great Washington balance and structure to shine through. But only as an encore, not the main event.

Growing Season

Hot summer weather gave way to cool conditions in mid-September. When temperatures remained cool through October under clear skies, 2008 became a vintage when hang time counted for flavor, not alcohol. In total the vintage was nearly flawless for producing deep concentrated wines with bright aromatics and understated tannins.

Winemaking

The lots were fermeted separately and were processed 100% whole berry. Malo-lactic fermentation was done in 100% new French oak puncheons. The wine was aged for 21 months in the same puncheons and was bottled unfined and unfiltered in late July 2010.

Winemaker's Tasting Notes

 

Ripe and forward with cassis, Asian spice, blackberries and red currant. Swirling releases a luscious torrent of black currant and plum jam, chased by hints of mocha and darker spices. The palate is rich and dense, with exceptional balance and fine, integrated tannins. An exotic, opulent wine, displaying an abundance of youthful structure. Decant now, or hold for a few years to experience the full spectrum of this wine’s aromatics, texture and complexity.