Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley 2018

Alex Golitzin founded Quilceda Creek in 1979 and made it into one of the premier Cabernet Sauvignon producers in Washington with the encouragement of his uncle, the renowned André Tchelistcheff. Son Paul Golitzin took over winemaking in 1993 and continues to refine the flagship wine. This 2018, crafted with the help of Alex Stewart and his winemaking team (who left the winery in 2021), is among the best to date. The main source of the fruit is the highly regarded Champoux Vineyard, with about 10 percent from Mach One vineyard, both of which are in Horse Heaven Hills; planted in 1972, Champoux is one of the older vineyards in Washington. This 2018 was aged in 100 percent new oak barrels for 20 months.

Tasting Note

A dynamic red, impeccably structured yet rich and harmonious, with expressive blackberry and black tea flavors laced with a hint of tobacco, which builds tension toward big but polished tannins. Drink now through 2033.—Tim Fish