2016 Père de Famille

Quintessential Washington Cabernet Sauvignon.  That was the quest that we embarked upon over twenty years ago, when the first vintage of Père de Famille, the Father of the Family, was resting in the cellar. The journey to find it has had us crisscrossing the state ever since, exploring vineyards from the Western Yakima Valley to Walla Walla, searching for superlative, expressive parcels. After two decades of stained hands, purple teeth, and dusty shoes, we think we’re on to something: a wine that expresses the powerful and penetrating soul of Columbia Valley Cabernet. 

The vibrant, purple magenta color of the 2016 Pére de Famille extends from one rim of the glass to the other, a hint of the intense aromatics to follow.  The breadth of what’s here is phenomenal and sensual: black and blue berries, crushed bay leaf and thyme; eucalyptus, rose petal, and fresh tobacco. On the palate, the wine has power and dimension, with rich cassis, baking spice, and a hint of graphite.  Terrifically fresh, the minerality that lingers through the finish is pronounced and lengthy. At turns expansive, elegant and muscular, this is delicious now but has the promise of a brilliant life ahead in the cellar.