Discover the elegance of Novelty Hill Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, a full-bodied red wine crafted under the masterful direction of acclaimed winemaker Mike Januik. Sourced from Washington's renowned Columbia Valley, this luxurious Cabernet boasts layers of vibrant black cherry, juicy blackberry, and fresh plum, enhanced by earthy notes of tobacco, spice, and a touch of roasted pumpkin seeds. Aged in a harmonious blend of French and American oak, it delivers refined tannins and a rich, lingering finish. Perfectly versatile, it elevates hearty dishes, grilled vegetables, or a quiet evening with its sophisticated and bold profile. Whether you're a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this wine promises to delight every palate with its balance, depth, and charm.
Process & Profile
The Novelty Hill Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterful expression of Washington State winemaking. Sourced from top-tier vineyards, including the winery's acclaimed Stillwater Creek Vineyard, the wine showcases meticulous hand-picking, small-lot fermentation, and expert aging. This premium Cabernet is aged in French and American oak barrels, yielding a polished and elegant Bordeaux-style profile. Celebrated for consistently high ratings, including scores of 90+ from prestigious critics, this wine embodies sophistication and structure.
Tasting Notes
Prepare your senses for a journey of vibrant flavors and aromas. The Cabernet Sauvignon opens with inviting notes of ripe black cherry, wild blackberry, and plum. Subtle hints of vanilla spice, cedar, and dark chocolate add depth, while whispers of tobacco and dried herbs lend complexity. The palate is rich, full-bodied, and textured, with refined tannins that lead to a long, savory finish. A harmonious blend of bold fruitiness and layered notes makes this wine compelling from start to finish.
What Makes It Special
This Cabernet stands out for its precision and pedigree. Crafted from prized Columbia Valley vineyards, including Stillwater Creek, which has been hailed as one of Washington's top vineyards, the wine reflects the region's unique terroir. The winemaking process emphasizes quality, using small-batch techniques and thoughtful oak aging to enhance complexity. Its accolades, including consistent 90+ point ratings from Wine Spectator, James Suckling, and Wine Enthusiast, affirm its exceptional craftsmanship.
How to Enjoy
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a stellar addition to any dining experience. Enjoy it with braised short ribs, roasted lamb shanks, or grilled veal chops for a hearty meal. For lighter fare, pair it with roasted winter vegetables or artisanal cheeses. Best served at a slightly cool room temperature (60–65°F), this wine shines as both a dinner centerpiece or a contemplative sipper for special occasions. Decanting for 30–60 minutes before serving will further enhance its flavors and aromas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the flavor profiles of Novelty Hill Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon?
The wine features rich and concentrated flavors with layers of ripe plum, black currant, and wild blackberries. It also has aromatic notes of cedar, vanilla, and spices, achieved through extended aging in French and American oak barrels.
Where are the grapes sourced for this wine?
The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are primarily sourced from Novelty Hill's Stillwater Creek Estate Vineyard on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills in Washington's Columbia Valley. Additional complexity is added by blending grapes from top vineyards in Red Mountain and Wahluke Slope.
What is the aging process for this Cabernet Sauvignon?
The wine is aged for 21 months in a combination of 65% French and 35% American oak barrels, with 40% of the barrels being new. This process enhances flavor complexity and softens the wine while preserving its structure.
What is the alcohol content and acidity of this wine?
The Novelty Hill Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 14.4%, with total acidity of 0.54 g/100 ml, giving it a balanced yet bold character.
What food pairs well with this wine?
This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like grilled steaks, roasted lamb, or even aged cheeses. Its rich tannins and dark fruit flavors complement robust, savory meals.
What makes this wine unique among Cabernet Sauvignons?
This wine is crafted by acclaimed winemaker Mike Januik, who utilizes his deep knowledge of the Columbia Valley vineyard profiles. Its blend of estate and select vineyard grapes combined with meticulous winemaking techniques delivers a textured, mouth-filling wine true to its varietal character.
Is this a good wine for aging?
Yes, the Novelty Hill Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has excellent aging potential. With its high tannin levels and oak aging, it can develop more complexity over 5–10 years if stored properly.
What is the typical blend in this wine?
The wine typically consists of 93–96% Cabernet Sauvignon, with small amounts of Merlot, Malbec, and sometimes Cabernet Franc, which add layered complexity and balance to the finished wine.