Varietal Composition: 100% cabernet sauvignon Alcohol: 14.8% by Volume Time in Oak: 20 Months Bottling Date: June 16 & 17, 2007 Production: 2,637 cases 750 ml, 169 cases 375 ml, 60 cases 1.5L
This 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon was produced from grapes grown primarily at Champoux, Sagemoor, Klipsun and Tapteil Vineyards. These four vineyards are some of the most highly regarded properties in Washington State and produce fantastic wines in their own right. In blend, they produce extraordinary wine.
The 2005 vintage was one of the finest that I have ever experienced. We achieved extraordinary ripening with physiological maturity achieved through leaf stripping, green harvesting and generally improved cultural practices throughout the vineyards. This Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented in very small stainless steel tanks and was punched down or pumped over twice a day. Aging in predominantly new French Chateaux barrels has produced a complex and generous red wine.
This wine has a generous nose of spicy oak and cedar integrated with ripe black fruits and cherry. A sweet, rich mouth feel begins with cassis and ripe black berry leading towards chocolate and mocha. The finish is complex, generous and long. While this wine can be enjoyed now it will definitely benefit from additional cellaring and with proper storage should develop for eight years or more.
Earth and tobacco flavors weave through the chunky cherry and black tea character, making this more savory than most. Yet has the structure to age. Definitely worth cellaring. Best after 2010"
Reviewer: Wine Spectator
Reviewer Publication: Wine Spectator
Review: Recommended
"March, 2008 How can a $47 cabernet be a value? Have you priced Napa cabernet lately? Have you tried the latest new Washington red wine made by yet another brand new wine maker that costs as much? You're missing out if you haven't experienced the wines of veteran winemaker Rick Small with more than 20 vintages under his belt, The man flat out knows how to make stellar cabernet. It's rich and luscious while showing typical cedary cabernet character. Even in its youth it tastes great and will only get better over the next few years."
Reviewer: Pike & Western Wine Shop
Reviewer Publication: Pike & Western Wine Shop
Review: Double Gold
Reviewer: San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Reviewer Publication: San Francisco Chronicle
Review: Two & 1/2 Stars - Very Good
"Kevin Mott, winemaker at Woodward Canyon since (2003), thinks 2005 is one of the finest vintages he has experienced. Aromas of dark chocolate-covered cherry, dusty blueberry, blackberry, cherry cola and freshly dug earth. Dense palate of just-ripe blackberry, well-integrated oak and nuanced sweetness; remarkably supple."
Reviewer: San Francisco Chronicle
Reviewer Publication: San Francisco Chronicle
Review: 92 points
"July, 2008: The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Artist Series is 100% varietal from three superb terroirs (Champoux, Sagemoor, and Klipsun). Opaque purple, the aromatic array includes cedar, leather, spice box, black currant, blackberry, and a hint of eucalyptus in the background. The wine is round and sweet on the palate with well concealed tannin, savory, spicy flavors, and 4-6 years of aging potential. This lengthy effort will be at its best from 2012 to 2025."
Reviewer: Robert Parker
Reviewer Publication: The Wine Advocate
Review: Double Gold
"The vineyards where this wine's grapes originated read like a who's who of Washington viticulture: Champoux, Sagemoor, Klipsun and Tapteil. The result is a wine with plenty of depth. It opens with aromas of black currants and cedar, followed by flavors of black raspberries, plums and chocolate. It is loaded with flavor through the lengthy finish."
Reviewer: San Francisco International Wine Competition
Reviewer Publication: San Francisco International Wine Competition