2018 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon "Owl and Crown"

92 Points

Bright red-ruby.  Brooding, lightly medicinal aromas of cassis, licorice, menthol, and bitter chocolate.  Rich, sweet, pliant, and edge-free, showing serious concentration to its dark berry, spice, and dark chocolate flavors. Lovely depth of fruit here with the menthol element giving it energy and an element of reserve. Offers noteworthy pliancy and vinosity to go with its intensity.  Ultimately a bit more ripe and less herbal than the 2017 edition and balanced from day one. Finishes with a touch of herbs and very ripe smooth tannins.  Despite the difference in varietal makeup, this wine had much in common with the 2018 ReRe than the 2017 Owl and Crown, but here the tannins are firmer. – Stephen Tanzer

19.5/20 points, Highly Recommended

This stellar 100% Cabernet displays a semi opaque ruby color and intoxicating aromas of blackberry, cherry, Damson plum, cassis, wild black roses, sweet tobacco, cedar, sweet pea flowers, sagebrush, mace and oriental incense. The flavors are simultaneously deep, brooding and supple, with layers of dark fruits that are intermixed with licorice, Swiss chocolate, French roast and glacial till minerals. The penetration continues on the back with sensations of macerated fruits, roasted walnuts, mocha, kirsch and cassis liqueurs, toasty integrated oak and finely ground graphite, all leading seamlessly into a firm yet satiny sweet tannin finish. - Rand Sealy, Review of Washington Wines