Quilceda Creek Vintners was founded in 1978 by Alex and Jeanette Golitzin. Alex Golitzin is a nephew of André Tchelistcheff, the legendary winemaker who put Beaulieu Vineyard at the forefront of Napa Valley Cabernet in the 1960s and 70s. He credits summer trips to visit his uncle in St. Helena, California with developing his early interest in wine. Alex’s son, Paul Golitzin is now chief winemaker at the winery.
Quilceda Creek Vintners Cabernet Sauvignon has earned some of the highest scores of any wine produced in the United States. The 2002, ’03, ’05, ’07 and ’14 vintages of the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon all scored 100-point ratings from Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate. Additionally, the ’14 Galitzine received 100 points as well. Quilceda Creek also produces a Bordeaux blend from Palengat Vineyard and a Columbia Valley Red Wine.
Galitzine Vineyard is situated on Red Mountain and was planted in 2001 and 2002.
I opened this bottle for a couple reasons. First and foremost QC just completed bottling their 40th vintage. What an achievement! Secondly the mailer for the ’17 Galitzine lands on Tuesday. I’m a buyer.
Crimson in color. 14.9% ABV. The first vintage of Galitzine. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Heady nose of black fruits, molten licorice, scorched earth and Whitman Sampler box. Rich, plush and exceptionally concentrated. Just a touch of heat on the back of the palate. Flavors of black cherry, black currants, cassis liqueur and cherry cordials. The finish is exceptionally long and silky. The heat is slightly distracting but there is no denying the wine is still showing well at sixteen years of age. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 92 points.
Quilceda Creek is best obtained via the mailing list and you may be able to find some at retail in late March or early April.