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. In addition to the flagship Cabernet Sauvingon, Quilceda Creek also produces several single vineyard wines and a Columbia Valley Red Wine.
Crimson in color. 14.9% ABV. Heady nose of red and black fruits, cigar box and leather. Medium to full bodied with tremendous structure and concentration. The balance here is notable. Currants, cassis, framboise and bittersweet chocolate on the palate. The finish is long and silky with prominent tannins. Not for the faint of heart but if you are a fan of the house style there is no question this is aging well. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 93 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 2024 will be released next Spring. I recently dropped off the mailing list as I have well over 20 vintages of Quilceda Creek in the wine cellar and I do find my tastes shifting from this style of wine.