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. In addition to the flagship Cabernet Sauvingon, Quilceda Creek also produces several single vineyard wines and a Columbia Valley Red Wine.
Purple in color. 14.9% ABV. Sublime nose of black and blue fruits, leather, wet leaves and violets. Plush, rich and full bodied. Powerful and concentrated with brooding fruits and impeccable balance. Black currants, blueberry liqueur, tobacco leaves and chocolate on the palate. The finish is long and supple. Really, delicious and about as Bordeaux like as Quilceda Creek would ever get. Best over the next 4-6 years but I might hang on to my magnum until 2034.
My rating: 94 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 2022 was recently released.