2018
Quilceda Creek
“Palengat” Cabernet Sauvignon
The 2018 Quilceda Creek “Palengat” Cabernet Sauvignon is from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. It is comprised of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon from Champoux and Mach One vineyards, and 3% Cabernet Franc. The Cabernet Franc adds a floral aromatic lift, providing additional complexity and finesse. It has aromas and flavors of intense blueberry and black plum fruit, with elements of violets, ginger, graphite, and chocolate. The wine is seamless in its structure and has perfect balance. This is the first “Palengat” to be labeled as a Cabernet Sauvignon since its inaugural 2006 vintage, and is the best iteration of this wine to date.
Paul Golitzin, Director of Winemaking
97 points
“A silky blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (97%) from Champoux and Mach One Vineyards, with the Cabernet Franc (3%) from the Palengat Vineyard. Once on the nose this takes on tar and chocolate covered espresso bean aromatics that mingle with the deep blue fruits and red florals on this exotic bouquet. The palate is deep and voluptuous showing an insanely good texture and richness, yet not coming off overly heavy. A very light dusting of salinity adds to the complexity. Drink 2021-2036”
97 points
“The 2018 Palengat is the plushest and most forward of the releases, offering a gorgeous perfume of cassis, leafy herbs, lavender, scrub brush, and chocolaty spice. With full-bodied richness, a round, expansive, mouth-filling texture, and beautifully polished tannins, it’s already impossible to resist yet should easily evolve for 15-20 years. This release comes from the Horse Heaven Hills and is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon blended with a touch of Cabernet Franc.
This is unquestionably another brilliant set of releases from Quilceda, and these 2018s show the classic opulence this estate is known for backed up by beautiful purity and lots of underlying structure.”
96 points
“A silky blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (97%) from Champoux and Mach One Vineyards, with the Cabernet Franc (3%) from the Palengat Vineyard. Once on the nose this takes on tar and chocolate covered espresso bean aromatics that mingle with the deep blue fruits and red florals on this exotic bouquet. The palate is deep and voluptuous showing an insanely good texture and richness, yet not coming off overly heavy. A very light dusting of salinity adds to the complexity. Drink 2021-2036”
96 points
“Black plums, blackberries, dark cherries, chocolate, walnuts, pine needles and dried flowers. It’s full-bodied with firm, velvety tannins. Creamy and smooth with a ripe and fragrant character. Walnut and hot-stone notes on the finish. Long and polished. Drink or hold.”