At a glance

Producer

Borne of Fire (Ste. Michelle Wine Estates)

Region

Columbia Valley, Washington, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$16-22 USD

Tasting profile

Ripe dark cherry, blackberry, plum, roasted coffee, subtle spice and sweet vanilla oak; round mouthfeel.

Evolution: Fresh fruit notes have softened; tannins integrate, secondary notes of tobacco and cedar emerge.

At peak: Smooth texture, balanced fruit and oak, appealing complexity for its price point.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium, softened with age

Alcohol

Moderate (13.5-14%)

Aging potential

Best consumed within 5-7 years of vintage; not ideal for extended cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2024

Optimal window

2021 to 2026

Current status

Drink or hold

Current condition

At or slightly past peak, showing softened tannins and integrated fruit.

Borne of Fire 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon was made in a forward, fruit-driven style meant for relatively early enjoyment, with enough structure to peak around 4-6 years post-vintage. Most bottles are showing optimal character now, with no significant improvement expected after 2024.

Food pairing

Grilled steak, roast lamb, BBQ pork, Portobello mushrooms, aged cheddar.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that have softened with age, and decanting will help enhance its aromas and flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 5/10

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates employs some sustainability initiatives: responsible water use, integrated pest management, and some renewable energy at select sites. Packaging is standard, recyclable glass with traditional capsule.

While Ste. Michelle Wine Estates demonstrates some commitment to responsible sourcing and resource management, Borne of Fire does not carry third-party sustainability or organic/biodynamic certification. The winery’s large scale allows for some efficiencies, but packaging and shipping are conventional. Environmental impact is reduced when consumed regionally. No advanced sustainability innovations are documented for this label.