When most people think of Drew Bledsoe, they recall his legendary NFL career as a star quarterback for the New England Patriots and other teams. However, since his retirement in 2007, Bledsoe has made an equally impressive mark in the world of wine with Doubleback Winery, a passion project that brings together his love of Walla Walla, Washington, and fine Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Origins of Doubleback

Doubleback Winery was born out of Bledsoe’s desire to “double back” to his roots in Walla Walla, Washington, where he spent his early years before becoming a household name in football. After 14 years in the NFL, Bledsoe returned home in 2007 and planted his first vineyard, McQueen, in the southern reaches of the Walla Walla Valley AVA. A year later, in 2008, Doubleback Winery was officially launched, focusing on producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon that could compete on the global stage.

From the very beginning, Bledsoe’s vision was ambitious. He partnered with Chris Figgins, the celebrated winemaker of Leonetti Cellar, who helped establish Doubleback’s foundations and trained the current winemaker, Josh McDaniels. By 2015, McDaniels took the helm as winemaker and CEO, allowing the winery to carve out its own identity. Together, Bledsoe and McDaniels have developed a powerful synergy that consistently drives Doubleback’s pursuit of perfection. Josh and his wife are partners in the winery, and Drew and his wife are majority owners. Josh also acts as the CEO of the company.

Drew Bledsoe: The Athlete Turned Vintner

For Bledsoe, wine is not a side hobby—it’s a full-time passion. In interviews, he’s spoken about how his journey from the NFL to the wine industry has parallels. Both fields require teamwork, perseverance, and an unwavering competitive spirit . Just as he did on the field, Bledsoe pushes his team toward excellence in every vintage, and his hands-on approach to running the winery is evident.

Though Bledsoe may not always be in the tasting room due to his schedule, his presence is strongly felt through the wine and the winery’s branding. His connection to Walla Walla is personal, and Doubleback’s focus on sustainability and craftsmanship reflects his commitment to the region

A Focus on Cabernet Sauvignon

At its core, Doubleback Winery is a Cabernet Sauvignon-focused estate. While the winery also produces small quantities of Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay under the Drew Bledsoe Signature Series, Cabernet Sauvignon remains the flagship. The winery’s vineyards, McQueen and Bob Healy, are meticulously managed to yield grapes that reflect the unique terroir of Walla Walla. Over time, they have expanded their vineyard portfolio to include the Flying B and Schafer Estate, further enhancing their estate-driven approach.

Doubleback’s wines are known for their balance between richness and elegance. Whether you’re savoring the flagship Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon or one of the experimental varietals from the Signature Series, you’ll find a common thread of craftsmanship and quality. Each wine is aged in a mix of French and Italian oak barrels, carefully tailored to add structure and depth without overpowering the fruit.

A Glimpse into the Future

Looking ahead, Doubleback’s future is bright. A new production facility is being developed, complete with underground caves for aging wine, further enhancing the winery’s commitment to estate-grown, premium wine. With McDaniels at the winemaking helm and Bledsoe continuing to build the brand, Doubleback is set to remain a cornerstone of Walla Walla Valley winemaking for years to come.

Doubleback Winery is more than just a passion project of a former NFL star. It’s a carefully crafted legacy that Drew Bledsoe is building in his hometown of Walla Walla, showcasing the incredible potential of Washington State wines—particularly Cabernet Sauvignon. Through the dedication of both Bledsoe and winemaker Josh McDaniels, Doubleback has become a leader in the Walla Walla Valley and a must-visit for any serious wine lover.

Whether you’re a fan of fine wines, Washington State terroir, or simply want to enjoy the fruits of Bledsoe’s second act, Doubleback Winery is a name you won’t want to miss.

Check out the reviews on the two vertical tastings that I was fortunate enough to experience with their Estate Reserve and their Estate Cabernet Sauvignon wines.

DOUBLEBACK Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ‘Estate Reserve’ 2021

Retasting the 2021 Estate Reserve Red Wine from Doubleback nearly 10 months later, it has continued to evolve and impress, becoming even more refined and layered – if that is even possible. This blend, led by Cabernet Sauvignon, pours a deep, brooding purple core with a vibrant blue rim, still youthful but now showing more elegance and nuance. On the nose, this wine has blossomed, offering complex aromas of black currants, wild blueberries, and black raspberries, intertwined with earthy tones of graphite and damp forest floor. A subtle touch of charred sage, toasted vanilla, and hints of roasted coffee beans add depth. Floral notes like dried violets and lavender persist, while the dark chocolate and espresso elements have softened into a seamless blend of richness and spice. The palate is equally captivating, with sweet, finely textured tannins and lively acidity that lift the wine’s bold structure. The full-bodied mouthfeel remains lush and expansive, yet there’s a newfound balance and grace that’s developed over the months. It’s still powerful, but now with an added layer of elegance and finesse that hints at its long-aging potential. This one will continue to evolve and get better over time, gifting a drinking window of at least 2 decades.

DOUBLEBACK Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ‘Estate Reserve’ 2020

Retasting the 2020 Estate Reserve from Doubleback after 18 months, this wine has evolved beautifully, with its tannins softening just enough to reveal a more fruit-forward character. Having spent 22 months in 81% new French oak, this blend—comprising 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot, and 3% Merlot—still displays its signature brooding dark purple core with an inky blue rim. The nose has become more expressive, offering lush black currants, ripe blackberries, and plum preserves that now take center stage. Supporting aromas of toasted anise, Chinese five spice, and subtle tobacco leaf remain, but they are now more integrated, giving way to richer, juicier fruit notes. There’s also a refined hint of new leather and a whisper of dark cocoa powder that rounds out the complexity. On the palate, the mouthfeel is wonderfully smooth and balanced, with softened tannins creating a more approachable texture. The vibrant acidity keeps everything in harmony, leading to a long, lingering finish. While this wine still maintains its structure and depth, the additional time has brought out an elegant fruit-driven side, making it even more enjoyable now. 514 cases made.

DOUBLEBACK Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ‘Estate Reserve’ 2019

The 2019 Estate Reserve from Doubleback is a masterful blend, pouring a stunning dark purple core with a light neon purple rim that immediately catches the eye. Composed of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petit Verdot, and a few other varieties, this wine is a testament to the impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail that Doubleback is known for. On the nose, it presents a mesmerizing array of aromas. Crushed blackberries and dried black currants form the backbone of the fruit profile, while layers of toasted allspice and cedary herbs add warmth and complexity. There’s a floral elegance to it as well, with purple potpourri wafting through, adding a refined touch. Subtle shades of licorice root bring an earthy depth, grounding the fruit and spice in a way that feels cohesive yet multifaceted. As it opens up on the palate, the wine is nothing short of expansive. Full-bodied and rich, it never feels overpowering, instead showcasing an intricate balance of flavors and textures. The sweet, plush tannins are seamlessly integrated, giving the wine a smooth, luxurious feel, while the acidity is perfectly calibrated, lifting the profile just enough to keep it vibrant and fresh. The finish is nothing short of phenomenal, leaving a lasting impression with its layered complexity and depth. This is a wine that promises longevity, destined to drink beautifully over the next 20 years, yet it already offers so much in its youth. Amazing.

DOUBLEBACK Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ‘Estate Reserve’ 2018

The 2018 Estate Reserve from Doubleback is a remarkable blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Malbec, aged for 23 months in a combination of new French and Italian oak barrels. Now with about six years of age, this wine is truly beginning to reveal its full potential. The tannins, once more structured in its youth, are now softening beautifully, allowing the layers of complexity to unfold seamlessly across the palate. On the nose, it offers an enchanting mix of ripe boysenberries, blue currants, and cassis, bringing forth a vibrant and dark fruit profile that immediately draws you in. These bold fruit notes are supported by secondary aromas of toasted cinnamon stick and sweet cloves, adding a warm, spicy edge that complements the fruit perfectly. A subtle hint of new leather emerges toward the back of the palate, lending a touch of sophistication and depth. What’s most striking about this wine is how everything fits together with such harmony. The mouthfeel is plush yet structured, with ripe tannins that are perfectly integrated. The acidity strikes an ideal balance, providing freshness and lift without overpowering the rich fruit and spice elements. As the wine evolves in the glass, it finishes with remarkable length, leaving a lasting impression that feels almost endless. This 2018 Estate Reserve is a shining example of how well Doubleback’s wines can age, showing incredible promise for future vintages. It’s shockingly good now, but with proper cellaring, this wine has the potential to evolve over the next 30 years, continuing to reward those with patience.

DOUBLEBACK Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ‘Estate Reserve’ 2017

The 2017 Estate Reserve from Doubleback is a remarkable expression of Walla Walla Valley, dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Petit Verdot (6%). Pouring a brooding deep purple-garnet core with a fluorescent purple rim, it presents a visually striking presence in the glass, setting the stage for an impressive tasting experience. On the nose, this wine immediately evokes a sense of elegance and complexity, reminiscent of a top-tier Right Bank Bordeaux in a blind tasting. Aromas of crushed blackberries and black plum skin lead the way, accompanied by cassis, pencil shavings, and dark baking chocolate, all coming together with a refined intensity. Subtle hints of cedary herbs round out the bouquet, adding a savory, earthy layer that complements the fruit-driven profile. The palate is where this wine truly shines, showcasing a focused and concentrated expression. Full-bodied and powerful, the chalky tannins provide structure without overwhelming the palate, while the moderate-plus acidity adds balance and vibrancy. As the wine evolves across the palate, an earthy, spice-driven finish emerges, leaving behind notes of dark chocolate, cedar, and a touch of graphite that linger long after the last sip. This 2017 Estate Reserve is yet another age-worthy masterpiece from winemaker Josh McDaniels, built for the long haul but showing incredible finesse and complexity in its youth. With proper cellaring, this wine will continue to develop over the next two decades.

DOUBLEBACK Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ‘Estate Reserve’ 2016

The 2016 Estate Reserve from Doubleback is an exceptional blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Malbec, and 11% Petit Verdot, pouring a brooding deep purple-blue core with a glowing neon purple rim. This vintage presents a more earthy and floral profile compared to its younger counterparts, showcasing the complexity that comes with age and the unique character of this particular year. On the nose, it offers a harmonious mix of both fruit and savory elements. Crushed boysenberries and freshly picked mountain blueberries provide a lush, vibrant fruit foundation, while more savory notes come through with intriguing complexity—white tobacco, cedary herbs, pink peppercorns, and a dusty country road nuance create an earthy, almost rustic undertone. This blend of fresh, floral, and earthy aromas is mesmerizing and draws you in for further exploration. The palate is equally captivating, delivering a focused, full-bodied experience. The present tannins provide a solid structure without being overpowering, and the acidity is perfectly balanced, adding a lively freshness that carries the wine effortlessly across the palate. The finish is notable for its blue-fruit profile, with a touch of saline that adds a surprising and delightful twist, leaving a lingering impression of minerality and finesse.

DOUBLEBACK Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley ‘Estate Reserve’ 2015

The 2015 Estate Reserve from Doubleback is a stunning 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in almost 100% new French oak, making it a wine that has matured beautifully yet still showcases incredible vitality. Pouring a bright, deep purple-ruby core with a neon pink rim, this wine is a testament to the power of great winemaking and meticulous aging. Now a decade old, it remains fresh, vibrant, and structured, with a remarkable purity of fruit that is both captivating and impressive. On the nose, you’re greeted with an enchanting bouquet of crushed violets, blackberry preserves, and melted dark chocolate. These rich, luxurious aromas are supported by savory notes of cedary sagebrush and a subtle umami edge, balanced with a surprising hint of Pomelo zest, adding a touch of brightness and complexity. The palate delivers a seamless, polished experience, with chalky tannins that provide structure without being overly assertive. Moderate-plus acidity lifts the wine, maintaining its balance and allowing the fruit to shine while adding a refined freshness that defies its age. The finish is long and elegant, carrying through those deep fruit and savory notes, leaving a lingering impression of sophistication and depth. What’s particularly impressive about the 2015 Estate Reserve is its ability to still feel youthful and vibrant, despite its age. This is a wine that will easily continue to evolve for another 15 years or more, making it a perfect candidate for collectors or those looking for a truly special bottle to cellar – if you can find a bottle that is!

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2021

The 2021 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon is a near-perfect expression of Walla Walla Valley’s potential, showcasing remarkable depth and complexity. In the glass, it reveals a deep opaque purple core with a subtle blue hue transitioning to a lighter purple rim, a visual prelude to its bold character. This wine demands patience; if opened now, a hard decant or an overnight rest is essential to unlock its full potential. Initially, the aromas lean into woodsy and earthy tones, with layers of forest blackberries, spruce herbs, dusty road, and wet earth, accented by hints of rich baking chocolate. As the wine evolves in the glass, its complexity deepens, revealing a vibrant mix of black and blue fruit alongside bright citrus notes of orange zest and red grapefruit. The palate is masterfully balanced, with seamless integration of ripe fruit, fine-grained tannins, and a bright, lively acidity that provides structure and lift. This 2021 vintage is built for the long haul, with all the components to evolve beautifully over the next two decades. While it is approachable with proper preparation, it is best enjoyed starting in 2025, allowing its layers to fully harmonize. Doubleback has once again delivered a wine that exemplifies both power and elegance, a true benchmark for the region. Highly recommended and an editor’s choice.

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2020

The 2020 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautifully crafted blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller portions of Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Aged for 22 months in 87% new French oak barrels, this wine delivers a striking aromatic profile that is both bold and refined. Blackberry pie dominates the nose, joined by layers of crushed coffee beans, dried rosemary, zesty lemon peel, and subtle hints of scorched earth, creating an intriguing and complex bouquet. On the palate, this wine is impressively lithe and balanced, showcasing ripe black fruit flavors that seamlessly intertwine with savory herbaceous undertones and earthy nuances. The finish is racy and energetic, with refined tannins and a bright acidity that promise both immediate appeal and long-term aging potential.

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2019

The 2019 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon is a stunning blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, and 3% Malbec, meticulously aged for 23 months in a mix of new and neutral French oak. This vintage showcases a vibrant and refined expression, offering a beautifully layered aromatic profile of crème de cassis, graphite, tobacco leaf, and sappy floral notes that rise gracefully from the glass. Each swirl adds complexity, hinting at its remarkable balance and elegance. On the palate, this wine is medium to full-bodied, with a focused structure that distinguishes it from the Estate Reserve. The flavors mirror the nose, seamlessly combining ripe black fruits with savory herbal undertones and a subtle minerality that adds depth. Its fine-grained tannins and bright acidity provide a framework that suggests this wine will only improve with time. For collectors and lovers of structured, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a must-have addition to the cellar.

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2017

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon from Doubleback is a standout wine, blending 87% Cabernet Sauvignon with 7% Merlot and 6% Petit Verdot. Aged for 23 months in a combination of new and second-use French oak, it offers a bold yet refined expression of the vintage. The nose opens with vibrant aromas of ripe blackcurrants, fresh blueberries, and crushed slate, accented by hints of toasted cocoa, pencil lead, and a touch of smoky graphite. Full-bodied and impeccably balanced, this wine delivers a seamless combination of rich fruit and savory undertones. The palate showcases layers of cassis, dark chocolate, and a subtle hint of cedar, with fine-grained tannins and a long, structured finish. Another incredible wine from a cooler vintage that has another 20 years in front of it.

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2015

The 2015 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterfully crafted wine that highlights the precision and opulence of this exceptional vintage. Composed of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec, it was aged in 85% new French oak, resulting in a wine of incredible depth and complexity. In the glass, it dazzles with a dark, inky purple core framed by a vibrant neon purple rim, hinting at its bold character. The nose is nothing short of captivating, with lush and layered aromas of blackberry compote, sweet spices, red licorice, and cedary herbs, alongside subtle notes of tobacco leaf and earthy undertones. It’s an aromatic experience that pulls you back to the glass again and again. On the palate, the wine is both powerful and refined, with flavors of saline, iodine, and dark chocolate emerging alongside rich dark plum. The structure is impeccable, featuring sweet, polished tannins and elevated acidity that add vibrancy and balance. The finish is long and harmonious, weaving together fruit-driven richness and earthy depth in perfect proportion.

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2013

The 2013 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine of remarkable elegance and longevity, offering a balance of freshness and complexity that defies its nearly 12 years of age. In the glass, it presents a medium to dark garnet-blue core with a delicate light purple rim, a visual cue to its refined character. The nose remains vibrant and expressive, with aromas of black cherries, crushed strawberries, dried red flower petals, and hints of dried sage. On the palate, this Cabernet unfolds beautifully, with layers of juicy boysenberries, bitter herbs, and a whisper of orange zest. Subtle shades of white pepper add a gentle spice that complements its silky texture. The wine is impeccably smooth and polished, with a structure that suggests another 10-15 years of potential when properly cellared.

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2011

The 2011 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon is a stunning testament to the winery’s mastery of crafting age-worthy wines. Pouring an inky dark purple-garnet core with a vibrant neon purple rim, it presents an arresting visual impression that hints at the vibrancy within. The nose is gloriously aromatic, with layers of crushed blueberries, sweet chocolate, and dried sagebrush, complemented by lemony herbs and a subtle touch of blood orange zest that adds an intriguing brightness. On the palate, the wine delivers an elegant interplay of flavors—grilled herbs, marionberries, and a distinct iodine note weave together seamlessly. The texture is polished, with silky smooth tannins and moderate-plus acidity providing structure and vitality. The finish lingers beautifully, marked by refreshing lemony acidity and a pronounced focus on blue-fruit flavors that persist long after each sip. It’s astonishing how fresh and refined this wine remains after nearly 14 years. The 2011 vintage showcases Doubleback’s incredible ability to create wines with both immediate appeal and exceptional longevity, proving once again why it stands among Walla Walla Valley’s finest.

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2009

The 2009 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon is an extraordinary wine that continues to impress more than a decade after its release. In the glass, it displays a glimmering medium ruby-blue core with a light pink rim, exuding freshness and vibrancy. On the nose, it offers a captivating blend of marionberries, black cherries, and sweet herbs, accented by subtle notes of lemon zest, sandalwood, and a dash of pink peppercorn. Each swirl reveals even more nuance, a testament to the wine’s impeccable balance and complexity. On the palate, this Cabernet is electric, pulsing with energy and precision. The vibrant fruit flavors are seamlessly integrated with its smooth tannins and perfectly calibrated acidity, creating a harmonious and refined structure. Remarkably youthful for its age, it could easily be mistaken in a blind tasting for a 3-4-year-old Napa Cabernet. The finish is nothing short of spectacular—long, layered, and endlessly satisfying.

DOUBLEBACK Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley 2007

The 2007 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon is a stunning example of how time can enhance a wine’s complexity and elegance, nearly two decades after its release. It pours a glistening medium to dark ruby-blue core with a delicate garnet-pink rim that only hints at its age. On the nose, it’s surprisingly youthful, with an incredible array of aromas—ripe dark cherries, sweet dark chocolate, dried rosebuds, and toasted anise, all lifted by a subtle touch of tangerine zest that adds vibrancy. On the palate, this wine is a masterclass in refinement. Smooth and polished, it still carries a surprising amount of structure, with robust tannins and sweet, elevated acidity that keep it lively and fresh. The zippy energy across the palate complements its depth of flavor, which balances fruit, spice, and earthy undertones perfectly. This 2007 vintage is an impressive showcase of Doubleback’s ability to craft wines that age gracefully, retaining their vitality and elegance even as they approach two decades.