I've had a taste for Washington Cabernets lately so it was time to pull one of these out of my cellar. Ever since the 2005 vintage was honored as Wine Spectator's wine of the year, the Columbia Crest Reserve has been a bit tough to locate. Even the 2006 alluded me, but I got a jump on the 2007 and secured a few for cellaring.I popped the cork and sampled, found it to be be a bit tight, but quite drinkable now. After the Vinturi and decanter, it opened right up.
I would agree with the winemaker's notes in that there was a slight mint, a bit of green pepper, definite anise and blackberries. Very well structure cab here, it will cellar for the next 5 years with no concerns. In fact, I plan to leave the others alone for a few years.
This is one of the finest, if not the best cab, at this price point. I bought a few Louis Martini Monte Rossos at a steal price, but still, they were a bit more than this one. Very nicely done, not as large as a Napa or Paso Robles cab, but tight tannins, fruits, green pepper and earth complete the Columbia Crest Reserve, making it a solid all around cab.
T-Scale - 92. I give kudos to the winemakers for letting this one go for $37 or so. I've seen it a bit cheaper, but again, it's pretty scarce.
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