Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet, 2009

At my tasting last weekend I tasted out Chateau Ste. Michelle 2009 Cabernet ($17).  This is from Columbia Valley, Washington.  It is 83% Cabernet Sauvignon blended with 9% Merlot, 3% Syrah, 2% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot - aged for 16 months in American and French oak (31% new).  The aroma was a heavenly dark fruit and spice.  The flavor a hint of dark fruit with more coffee on the palate.  Medium tannins that were nicely integrated.  Customers enjoyed this wine.   

Winemaker's Notes:  "Our goal with the Columbia Valley Cabernet is to highlight concentrated Washington red fruit in an accessible style. This is our inviting Cab with plenty of complexity and structure with silky tannins. It’s also very versatile with food--try it with beef, pork or pasta.    

Food Pairing:
     Foods:   bleu cheese, duck, beef, veal, dark chocolate
     Herbs:   mustard, paprika, rosemary, thyme
     Spice:    allspice, cloves, ginger, mace, nutmeg"