2022 Cabernet Sauvignon
2022 Obelisco Cabernet Sauvignon
AVA: Red Mountain
Blend: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 12% Malbec
Vineyards: 76% Quintessence, 12% Scooteney Flats, 12% Obelisco
Case Production: 420 cases
Aging: 100% French oak; 17% New
Tasting Notes: The fruit for this wine comes from a combination of vineyards on Red
Mountain. Quintessence vineyard is south facing and very warm giving the Cabernet power and
structure. The Merlot comes from Scooteney Flats vineyard and provides generous red fruit
and brightness to the wine. The Malbec, from Obelisco Vineyard, adds softness along with
purple fruit and floral notes. Aromas of a mix of wild berries like raspberries, blackberries, and
blueberries are accompanied by a subtle Vanilla spice. The mélange of berries on the palate are
complimented by round, yet robust texture indicative of Washington Cabernet Sauvignon.
Cellaring: Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon is drinkable now, showing youthful fruit
and a silky texture. If you enjoy aging your wine, the natural acidity and tannin structure of
this Cabernet will allow it to age gracefully for 15-18 years.
Production: The grapes were hand-picked from the various vineyard sites over the period
of 3 weeks. The grapes were cold-soaked for 5 days prior to fermentation to gently extract
color and flavor. The wine fermented over 2 weeks and was aged in a combination of old
and new French oak for 20 months to mellow the abundant natural tannin.
Harvest notes: The 2022 growing season started out with a cold, wet winter, putting
significant moisture into the soil. Early varieties started to bud at the end of March/early
April, aligned with recent history. A freak blizzard hit Columbia Valley in April, stalling bud
break for two to three weeks. Cool weather continued through bloom, and when summer
temperatures finally arrived the growing season was already two to three weeks behind.
October saw ideal growing conditions, with temperatures five or more degrees above
average, resulting in near-perfect finishing weather given the coolness of the season. The
wines show balance and finesse due to slightly larger berries and clusters.
