Quick Sip: 2003 Soléna Klipsun Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon - grapes from the other side of the Columbia

Soléna Klipsun Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (2003)
Soléna Estate
Cabernet Sauvignon
Red Mountain AVA, WA

The final warm weather varietal tasted at Soléna's Carlton tasting room with Lynnette.

Appearance: Deep garnet color, clear to brownish rim

Nose: Clean, dark/black fruit, plums, black cherry, some perfumed aromas at top of glass

Palate: Dry, full body, medium-high round tannin, vegetal/bell pepper, dark fruit, smooth, long oaky finish

Despite my constant encouragement for people to try new types of wines, I must (and believe I have previously done so) admit that Cabernet Sauvignon is not at the top of my personal preference list. That said, I always make an effort to try new ones that I don't have any experience with, and I've found some that I really love, and some I don't care for. While Oregon is definitely not considered a region where Cabernet might flourish, regions that are part of Southern Oregon AVA do produce some.

This bottle in particular though is sourced from the Red Mountain appellation in Washington state, on the other side of the Columbia River. Red Mountain is the smallest AVA in WA. My experience is that WA Cabernet tends to be much softer, smoother, and fruitier than many of those from California. For whatever reason, I do typically like those from the Northwest. Again, not my pick of the WWVs offered at Soléna, but definitely worth trying in comparison if you're looking for something outside of the California Cabernet Machine.

Cheers!