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.
Dark crimson in color. 14.9% ABV. Sublime nose of black and blue fruits, leather, cigar box and violets. Polished and concentrated with exceptional balance. Black currants, blueberry liqueur, plums and tobacco on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish with silky, fine grained tannins. Gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon even if it is over shadowed by the near perfect 02 and breathtaking 03. Best over the next 5-8 years.
My rating: 96 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. Look for the 2018 that was released this Spring.