2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Chateau Ste Michelle, Columbia Valley, Washington
To be honest, this wine absolutely bowled me over, completely and utterly - so much that I sent a bottle straight to my brother, who as an American wine connoisseur, I knew would love it too. This is a wine simply too good not to be shared.
If you’ve ever made salted caramel, and I appreciate there is a good chance that not many of you have, there is a stage when the butter hits the caramel, crackles and sizzles then gently emulsifies into the hot sugar creating a smooth, very satisfactory velvety sauce - the aroma omitted is intensely rich, and is a perfect balance of sweet and savoury, yet with a delicious umami element that sends the senses into utter confusion.
The aroma of the cabernet sauvignon from Chateau Ste Michelle took me back instantly to this deliciously indulgent scent. The palate did not disappoint either with a velvety weave of warming bramble fruits, a subtle creaminess of American oak and a hint of cedar at the end. Unbelievably well balanced, deliciously smooth and a fabulously long finish.
Ste Michelle is Washington's oldest winery and due to its Northern proximity enjoys a refreshingly cooler climate than its Californian cousins further south resulting in a wine that is less jammy and more balanced and elegant than many of the bigger fruit driven styles that are often associated with the Golden state.
What do you pair with it?
Personally, I would pair this with a leaner red meat, cooked on the rare side. Think a chargrilled piece of aged fillet, a little Dijon mayo and a side of charred courgettes, sultanas and pine nuts. Or a swiftly seared lamb cannon, with some freshly made salsa verde and a grilled marinated vegetable salad. A side of baked balsamic and thyme potatoes would go rather nicely with either. Or just enjoy a glass on its own! In case you are wondering about my food references then, as well as having started in the wine industry some 20 years ago, I have also been a private chef for a number of years, and I love balancing food and wine together.
Mary-Ann Poole
Customer Service, Mr.Wheeler.
Tasting note:
Chateau Ste Michelle is Washington's oldest winery. This wine is perfectly smooth, there are blackcurrants, blackberries and vanilla on the nose and similar black fruits on the palate, subtle vanilla and cedar.