The 1998 Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon was the winning bottle in the December Installment of Pick My Next Bottle.
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 several single vineyard Cabernets and a Columbia Valley Red Wine.
Crimson in color. 14.4% ABV. Stunning nose of red fruits, leather, cedar and mint. Soft, supple and plush. Exceptional mouthfeel with warm, caressing fruit. Currants, cassis liqueur, spiced plums, mint and smoke on the palate. The finish is long and seamless with ever so silky tannins. Gorgeous Cabernet that presents in an old school way when compared to the more versions circa 2002 and beyond. Just a pleasure to drink on the eve of New Years Eve. Best over the next 1-2 years.
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.