# Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley (2020)

- **Producer:** Chateau Ste. Michelle
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah
- **Region:** Washington, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €15
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–17 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, black cherry, plum, blackberry, cassis, currant, cedar, chocolate, mocha, tobacco, vanilla, meaty flavors, olive oil, bacon fat, cedar brush spice, dried tobacco leaf

## About this wine

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley 2020 is a red wine from Washington State's Columbia Valley AVA. Produced by Chateau Ste. Michelle, a winery with a history dating back to 1934, this wine is a blend primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, with contributions from Merlot and Syrah. The Columbia Valley's climate, known for its abundant sunshine and temperature fluctuations, provides an ideal environment for cultivating grapes that exhibit both ripeness and acidity. The 2020 vintage experienced wildfire activity in the region, a factor that may have influenced the wine's profile.

## Interesting facts

- Founded in 1934, it's one of Washington's oldest wineries.
- Awarded 'American Winery of the Year' by Wine Enthusiast in 2004.
- The Columbia Valley's climate is similar to Bordeaux, France.
- The 2020 vintage faced challenges from wildfires in the region.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and proteins, helping to cleanse the palate. The dark fruit notes in the wine can harmonize with savory and earthy flavors found in dishes like mushroom risotto or braised meats.

## Wine making process

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley 2020 is crafted by blending primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller proportions of Merlot and Syrah. The grapes are grown in the Columbia Valley AVA, benefiting from its distinct climate. Post-fermentation, the wine undergoes aging, with specific durations and oak usage varying by bottling. For instance, some bottlings are aged in a mix of new and neutral French oak, contributing to the wine's structure and aromatic profile. The 2020 vintage was characterized by regional wildfire activity, which may have imparted subtle nuances to the wine.