RKS 2024 Wine: Hostage to Cali Cabernet Sauvignons

Posted byRobert K Stephen (CSW)Posted inWineTags:, , , , , , ,

In Canada in terms of American Cabernet Sauvignon we are hostage to California Cabernet Sauvignons. I am sure Texas produces some notable Cabernet Sauvignons but timid buyers for our state liquor monopoly the Liquor Control Board of Ontario would rather sell their mother than look to Texas or 48 other states for American wine. My my. Let’s not spook our customers. Chambourcin from Pennsylvania? Cabernet Franc from Virginia? Merlot from Long Island?

Thank goodness for Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon but even then it is barely flowing in like a severe BPH manifestation.

What about a Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon? 11% Syrah in this.

Aroma: Think blueberries and blueberry pie. Generous overlay of cassis and blackberry zipped up in coconut.

Palate: More of that blueberry and blackberry. Ok with me so bring it on! Short and smooth finish. Jammy every once in awhile is fine.

Personality: Don’t compare me to Cali Cab Sav. Comparisons are odious in the wine world. Respect the terror of terroir and not a state!

Cellarbility: Drink by 2025-year end.

Food match: Japanese cod curry.

Price: $27.95 CDN (Ontario).

RKS 2024 Wine Rating: 91/100.wineandspirirtmagazine.com 91.

(Chateau Ste. Michelle 2020 Indian Wells Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Paterson, Washington, 750 mL, 14.5%).

Published by Robert K Stephen (CSW)

Robert K Stephen writes about food ,drink, travel, film, and lifestyle issues. He also has published serialized novels "Life at Megacorp", "Virus # 26, "Reggie the Egyptian Rescue Dog" and "The Penniless Pensioner" Robert was the first associate member of the Wine Writers’ Circle of Canada. He also holds a Mindfulness Certification from the University of Leiden and the University of Toronto. Be it Spanish cured meat, dried fruit, BBQ, or recycled bamboo place mats, Robert endeavours to escape the mundane, which is why he has established this publication. His motto is, "Have Story, Will Write."

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