2017
Quilceda Creek
“CVR” Red Wine
Modeled after Bordeaux’s “super second” wines, our CVR program delivers the essence of Quilceda Creek’s approach to viticulture and winemaking. For 2017, the fruit was sourced from the Champoux, Galitzine, Palengat, and Wallula vineyards, with a blend is very close to the 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon that went into our ultra-premium Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. In addition to the 96 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, there is 3 percent Merlot, and 1 percent Cabernet Franc.
These tiny additions make a difference, leaving the wine a little softer and more enjoyable in its youth. Dense and lush, the wine is centered on the red and blue fruit typical of Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon, with nuances of star anise, smoke, and cedar. It was immediately impressive upon release (deemed “a stunning value” by critic Jeb Dunnuck, among others). With additional time in the cellar — up to 15 years — its flavors will continue to come together and add elegance and complexity.
Paul Golitzin, Director of Winemaking
95 points
"The 2017 'CVR' is an absolutely incredible wine that consists of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc which was sourced from all Quilceda Creek's vineyard sites. This immediately bursts open with gorgeous aromas of blackberries, dark cherries and black plums that are accented by bell pepper, tobacco, graphite, spices and hints of dried herbs. On the palate this is full-bodied, expressive and beautifully structured with polished tannins and a supple texture. It goes on to display outstanding balance, with a wonderful combination of dense ripe fruit that is framed by gorgeous underlying acidity keeping it fresh and inviting all the way through the plush finish. Overall this is a sensational release which is drinking exceptionally well today and is every bit as impressive as the rest of Quilceda Creek's lineup in this vintage."
95 points
"The 2017 Columbia Valley CVR is smoking stuff. Based on 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc sourced from the Champoux, Galitzine, Palengat, and Wallula Vineyards, it has loads of cassis, toasted spice, graphite, and dried tobacco notes as well as full-bodied richness, a broad, expansive mouthfeel, and sweet tannins. It’s not far off the top releases here, and it remains a stunning value in world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink it any time over the coming 15 years or more."
94 points
"Lush color, soft, warm vanilla-inflected nose, smooth, rich and luscious; toasted, rich and deep with plum, raspberry and cherry; sweet new oak and lovely balance, long and lovely."
94 points
"The 2017 ‘CVR’ is a seductive blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon with small portions Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The wine was aged in roughly 50% new French oak before bottling. The nose has exotic appeal with its dense blue and black fruit aromatics that meld with Asian spices and shades of dusty terroir that all take their shape in the glass. The mouthfeel and texture of the wine is superb and this shows plenty of richness and a bright acid backbone. Deep blackberry cobbler, mocha, tar and blueberry compote flavors all come together marvelously on the palate. Marvelously structured and showing good poise, the 2017 ‘CVR’ is up there with the best ever made from this storied Washington estate. Drink 2019-2029"