2022 Cabernet Sauvignon
This 2022 Cabernet is the epitome of what Red Mountain's unique terroir and high quality grapes brings to the table.
** WINNER of a Silver Award from the SF Chronicle Wine Awards **
2022 Obelisco Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Blend: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 12% Malbec
AVA: Red Mountain
Vineyards: 76% Quintessence, 12% Scooteney Flats, 12% Obelisco
Case Production: 420 cases, 750 ml
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.
