At a glance

Producer

Quilceda Creek

Region

Columbia Valley, Washington State, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$250

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, cassis, graphite, cedar, and espresso aromas; rich palate with blackberry and dark plum flavors

Evolution: Will develop tertiary notes of tobacco, leather, and earth after 10+ years

At peak: Complex layers of fruit and savory notes with silky tannins and balanced finish

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, medium-plus acidity supporting longevity

Tannins

Firm and ripe with fine grain

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

20+ years typical, capable of long cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2049

Optimal window

2023 to 2052

Current status

Drinking well, entering early maturity

Current condition

Shows vibrant fruit, structured tannins, with excellent freshness

2017 is an excellent vintage with ripe, structured fruit and balanced acidity typical of Quilceda Creek’s style, supporting extended aging well into the 2030s.

Food pairing

Grilled red meats, game (venison), aged cheddar, mushroom-based dishes, and rich stews

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To open up blackberry and cassis aromas and soften tannins for immediate drinking

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of cover crops, integrated pest management, reduced irrigation water usage, and solar power for winery operations

Quilceda Creek emphasizes sustainable farming practices and energy efficiency, yet lacks formal organic/biodynamic certification. The winery's location in Washington State enables use of renewable energy and efficient water practices, which positively impacts sustainability scores. Carbon footprint is mitigated by local sourcing but increased by export shipments typical for premium wines.