Experience the refined elegance of the 2019 Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine that captures the essence of Washington's iconic Cold Creek Vineyard. This vintage boasts a full-bodied structure complemented by vibrant notes of black cherry, cassis, and hints of graphite, layered with subtle herbaceous undertones and dusty, gravelly minerality from its unique terroir. Aged in French oak, with 51% new barrels, it reveals a sophisticated interplay of toasty oak and persistent tannins, ensuring remarkable depth and a lingering finish. Perfectly suited for pairing with hearty dishes like osso buco or veal rag√π, this Cabernet is a true testament to Cold Creek's legacy of crafting deeply concentrated, exquisitely balanced wines.
Process & Profile
The Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 is crafted from one of Washington State's most iconic vineyards, Cold Creek, established in 1973. Known for its warm, dry climate and old vines, this vineyard produces small, concentrated berries that yield rich flavors and deep color. The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon underwent barrel aging, with 51% of the wine maturing in new French oak, imparting subtle notes of vanilla and spice. This meticulous winemaking process results in a full-bodied wine with a vibrant structure and remarkable longevity.
Tasting Notes
This wine exudes a bold, fruit-forward profile with flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and boysenberry. Layers of complexity are added with hints of chocolate, dried herbs, and leather, alongside a touch of vanilla and oak from its aging process. On the nose, aromas of ripe blueberries and floral undertones like lavender and lilac are evident. The wine's structure is enhanced by firm tannins and a lingering finish, showcasing its perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality.
What Makes It Special
What sets this 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon apart is its unique terroir. Cold Creek Vineyard benefits from sun-drenched growing conditions and low rainfall, leading to intense fruit flavors. As one of the oldest vineyards in Washington, the vines here carry decades of character, producing highly concentrated and expressive grapes. The vineyard's history and the skillful aging process in French oak barrels give this wine the distinctive qualities that make it a top-tier expression of Columbia Valley terroir.
How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate this wine, decant it for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing its rich aromas and silky tannins to develop. Serve at 63–65°F in a large glass to highlight its bold flavors and aromatic complexity. The 2019 Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon pairs excellently with hearty dishes like braised short ribs, lamb shanks, or veal ragù. For vegetarian pairings, opt for grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted winter vegetables. For dessert, indulge in dark chocolate cake or berries with a dark chocolate drizzle to complement the wine's luscious fruit and subtle sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key characteristics of the Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019?
This wine features intense flavors and deep color, thanks to its origins in Cold Creek Vineyard, one of Washington's oldest and most acclaimed vineyards. It offers dark purple fruit tones, notes of dusty toast, lavender, lilac, and bright cherries. The persistent tannins provide a gripping finish, making it a bold and structured option.
What food pairs well with this wine?
The Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as osso buco or Pappardelle with Veal Rag√π. Its bold structure complements rich, savory flavors, making it an excellent choice for indulgent meals.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The alcohol content of the Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 is 14.8%, ensuring a full-bodied and robust tasting experience.
How is the wine aged?
51% of the wine is aged in new oak barrels, predominantly French oak, which enhances its complexity and adds layers of subtle toastiness to the flavor profile.
Where is the Cold Creek Vineyard located?
The Cold Creek Vineyard is situated within the Columbia Valley AVA in Washington. Established in 1973, it benefits from warm, dry growing conditions and low rainfall, which contribute to the concentrated flavors and small berry size in the grapes.
What makes the Cold Creek Vineyard special?
As one of Washington's oldest vineyards, Cold Creek encompasses over 800 acres and is renowned for producing moderate yields with concentrated, high-quality grapes. Decades of cultivation have allowed the vineyard to develop a distinctive old-vine character that enhances the quality of the wine.
How many cases of this wine were produced?
A total of 7,034 cases of the Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 were produced. This limited production reflects the winery's focus on quality over quantity.
Can the wine be aged further?
Yes, the Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 has excellent ageability due to its robust structure, persistent tannins, and concentration of fruit flavors. Proper cellaring can enhance its complexity over time.
What accolades has this wine received?
The Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 has been rated 89 points and described as "Excellent," showcasing its standing within the realm of premium wines.
Where can I purchase this wine, and are there discounts for bulk purchases?
The wine is available for purchase directly through Chateau Ste. Michelle's website and select retailers. Discounts may apply for bulk purchases, such as 10% off on orders of 6 or more bottles and 15% off on orders of 12 or more bottles.