The wine is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Malbec. This is primarily from Canoe Ridge Estate (72%) but is also from smaller percentages of the Cold Creek vineyard (16%), the Zephyr Ridge Vineyard (10%) and the Indian Wells Vineyard (2%). Aged for 22 months in French oak (69% new), there is a prominent oak feature to this wine but not in a detracting style. This wine opens with aromas of milk chocolate, black here and cassis alongside oak. There are flavors of blackberry, anise, coffee and milk chocolate. Lovely depth and mouthfeel. This needs another year of cellaring. Nice density to this modern style wine. (Best 2015-2030) - December, 2015 (OB)
93 POINTS
Wine Specifications
- Report Date: December, 2015
- Producer: Chateau Ste. Michelle
- Vintage: 2012
- Drinking Window: 2015-2030
- Estimated Value: $75
- Country: United States
- Region: Washington
- Appellation: Columbia Valley
- Importer: Chateau Ste. Michelle