Chateau Ste Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon, Cold Creek Vineyard, Columbia Valley, 2008

Planted in the 1970's, Cold Creek is heralded as one of Washington's iconic vineyards. A cool vintage from beginning to end, 2008 saw bud break and bloom (noted June 11) about two weeks late. Patience was rewarded as grapes methodically ripened over the summer and the October harvest, still two weeks late, delivered Cabernet with natural acidity and beautiful structure. Alc. 15.0% by vol. ste-michelle.com. Produced and bottled by Chateau Ste. Michelle Vineyards and Wineries, Paterson, WA.