92 Points James Suckling: The nose is full of rich notes of black currant and black cherry, freshly brewed coffee, a slight hint of vanilla, and a little bit of spiciness. The entry is nice and round, with a rich mid-palate throughout. The mouth is full of ripe black fruit notes, some spiciness, and a touch of herbaceousness.

Wine Information

Initially apple and potato farmers, Butch and his brother Jerry put down agricultural roots in Eastern Washington long before 1997, the year they planted their first grapevines in the area now designated as the Wahluke Slope AVA. Fast forward two decades and the Milbrandt's are currently farming over ten distinct vineyard sites in the Wahluke Slope AVA and four vineyards to the north in the Ancient Lakes AVA.

Now a multi-generational brand with Butch and his son Buck taking the lead.  Their grapes are still highly prized—they’re regarded as the best growers in the state.

Winemaker Canadian-born Kendall Mix arrived in Washington in 1993 and ranks among the state’s most important winemaking figures. He worked for two of Washington’s largest producers before landing at Milbrandt. He is a graduate of the viticulture and enology program at the University of California-Davis.

This Cabernet Sauvignon is made from estate grown grapes harvested from three different sites in the heart of Columbia Valley (Clifton, Ravenscliff, and Northridge).  After fermentation 62% of the wine was barrel aged in neutral  American oak for 13 months. 

Grilled preparations, Hearty stew, Red Meat, Slow-smoked Barbeque/BBQ Sauce