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. 15.2% ABV. Stunning nose of blue fruits, molten licorice, Whitman Sampler Box and flowers. Tremendous structure and concentration. Impeccable balance. Dark fruits in spades. Blueberry, creme de cassis, vanilla bean and tobacco on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish with prominent silky tannins. Blockbuster Cabernet Sauvignon that should cruise to 25 years of age.
My rating: 95 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. The 2021 was recently released to the mailing list and cost $150.