Milbrandt Cabernet Sauvignon The Estates 2016

Wahluke Slope

$18.69 btl. | $98.75 ½ case ($16.46) reg. $25.00

91 points, Wine Spectator

We’re asked on a regular basis for a good varietal Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington State that costs less than $20.00, and while it’s doable enough to answer the request in a fragmented way, i.e., good Cabernet or under $20.00 Cabernet, it’s a bit more problematic to combine the two in a truly satisfactory manner. Too often they're artificially constructed facsimiles of what we’re really wanting, more of a chemistry project than art and craft and just the fruit from the vine. But occasionally, it can happen. Enter Milbrandt.

Over the last 20+ years the Milbrandt family have taken what was once apple and potato growing acreage and transformed it into a world class vineyard and winery operation. A pioneer of the Columbia Valley wine region, Butch Milbrandt saw the potential in Eastern Washington. In 1997, this fourth-generation farmer took a risk in planting grapes and soon became recognized for helping establish two of the top AVAs in Washington State: Ancient Lakes and Wahluke Slope.

Now a multi-generational and still family-owned brand with Butch and his son Buck taking the lead, Milbrandt Vineyards remains a symbol of perseverance and reward.

Winery notes:

“Our estate bottling of Cabernet Sauvignon is filled with aromas of plum, black cherry, black currant and dried herb, with notes of mocha and espresso. It has a broad, viscous entry with a dense chewy mid-palate, followed by a very long finish.”

This wine is composed of 85.7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Malbec, and 3.3% Petit Verdot. Aging takes place in 20% new American Oak for a period of 28 months.

It’s a good deep purple to rim with ripe aromas; blackberry, cassis, mocha, a bit of sage and oak vanillin. Really textured on the palate - ripe and long black fruit and silky dark flavors with a lingering finish. Youthful, fresh and delicious. A lot of wine for this price level.

91 points, Wine Spectator:

“Expressive and well-structured, with blackberry, espresso and spice flavors that finish with refined tannins. Drink now through 2024.”

There’s never enough of a classic Cabernet Sauvignon at a great price to go around, and this Gold-Medal winner from Milbrandt is sure to please. This is the end of the vintage for this wine, and it will only be available at this price for a brief time and when it’s gone, that’s it.