Andrew Will Ciel du Cheval Vineyard 2018
Andrew Will · Red Mountain, Washington, USA
At a glance
- Producer
- Andrew Will
- Region
- Red Mountain, Washington, USA
- Grape variety
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Full-bodied and Bold
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $90-$130
Tasting profile
Dark berry fruits, cassis, graphite, tobacco, with herbal and mineral nuances. The palate is rich with firm tannins and good acidity.
Evolution: Will develop more tertiary notes such as leather, earth, and savory spice over the next decade.
At peak: Complex layered aromatics, softened tannins, and seamless integration of fruit and oak by peak maturity.
Structure
- Acidity
- Balanced, moderate to high acidity providing structure
- Tannins
- Firm, well-integrated but youthful and grippy
- Alcohol
- Approximately 14.5%-15%
- Aging potential
- 15-20+ years due to concentration, tannin, and site quality
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2028 to 2043
- Optimal window
- 2023 to 2046
- Current status
- Approaching early drinking maturity but with significant aging potential
- Current condition
- Youthful tannins with emerging fruit complexity and still quite structured
This wine is from a top vineyard in Red Mountain, known for powerful, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons. The 2018 vintage exhibits excellent balance and structure typical of the site and producer style, warranting a long drinking window with a peak 10-15 years after release.
Food pairing
Pairs excellently with grilled or roasted red meats, game dishes, hearty stews, aged cheeses, and mushroom-based sauces.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften youthful tannins and allow full aromatic development
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Andrew Will employs dry farming techniques, integrated pest management, water conservation methods, solar energy use, and minimal intervention winemaking.
The winery demonstrates commitment to sustainability with certified practices tailored to the Red Mountain AVA’s arid environment, focusing on resource efficiency and environmental responsibility.