Red Mountain, Columbia Valley, Oregon/Washington, USA
I often struggle with the wines from Washington State. Too often, I find them to come across as big, over the top fruit bombs with many unsuitable for long-term aging. However, there are some exceptions and the wines of Andrew Will are one of those exceptions. This Ciel du Cheval bottling has been cellared away since release and happens to be the last in an original purchase of 6. Ciel du Cheval was originally planted in 1975 and now comprises of over 100 acres of vines with an average age over 36 years. I’ve long admired the quality that comes from this vineyard. The 2008 version of this wine was nearly equal parts Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc with just the touch more Merlot than the other two. From the start, this was buzzing with dark fruits, sweet tobacco, baking spices and leather. The texture is so ever so velvety soft. The tannins are super fine and we’ll integrated at this point. A wine of impeccable balance that has delivered the goods for several years now and I suspect, will continue to do so for many years to come. That being said, I am happy to have consumed my last bottle at this stage in its evolution. It’s clearly firing on all cylinders now.
I often struggle with the wines from Washington State. Too often, I find them to come across as big, over the top fruit bombs with many unsuitable for long-term aging. However, there are some exceptions and the wines of Andrew Will are one of those exceptions. This Ciel du Cheval bottling has been cellared away since release and happens to be the last in an original purchase of 6. Ciel du Cheval was originally planted in 1975 and now comprises of over 100 acres of vines with an average age over 36 years. I’ve long admired the quality that comes from this vineyard. The 2008 version of this wine was nearly equal parts Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc with just the touch more Merlot than the other two. From the start, this was buzzing with dark fruits, sweet tobacco, baking spices and leather. The texture is so ever so velvety soft. The tannins are super fine and we’ll integrated at this point. A wine of impeccable balance that has delivered the goods for several years now and I suspect, will continue to do so for many years to come. That being said, I am happy to have consumed my last bottle at this stage in its evolution. It’s clearly firing on all cylinders now.
1 person found it helpfulApr 6th, 2020
With several hours to decant, this Cabernet Franc-Cabernet Sauvignon blend is excellent after 10 years!
With several hours to decant, this Cabernet Franc-Cabernet Sauvignon blend is excellent after 10 years!
Jun 3rd, 2018
Deep dark berries, anise, smoke. Very good, but still young and will get even better with time in the bottle.
Deep dark berries, anise, smoke. Very good, but still young and will get even better with time in the bottle.
May 25th, 2017
Two thumbs up for this WA blend. Palate is complex- smooth blue and red fruit at first, then a little spice, earthy funk, oak, and finally a moderately tannic finish. Probably even better in a few more years. Nice QPR too. Great job @Andrew Will Winery !
Two thumbs up for this WA blend. Palate is complex- smooth blue and red fruit at first, then a little spice, earthy funk, oak, and finally a moderately tannic finish. Probably even better in a few more years. Nice QPR too. Great job @Andrew Will Winery !
Aug 26th, 2016
Still has all of its fruit from its youth, but now it also has developed great bottle bouquets.
Still has all of its fruit from its youth, but now it also has developed great bottle bouquets.
Jul 9th, 2016
Clean and refined taste while retaining incredible structure.
Clean and refined taste while retaining incredible structure.
Nov 2nd, 2013Bob had this 11 years ago
Bob had this 11 years ago
Nov 22nd, 2013
