2023 Elerding Cabernet Sauvignon
Double Gold - 94 points - 2026 Cascadia International Wine Competition (link)
Tasting Notes
This isn't a wine that tries too hard; it just delivers. You’re going to get plenty of bold black
fruit like cherry and blackberry right up front. Because we didn't bury it in new oak, you can
actually taste the grapes and the dirt they grew in—there’s a cool, stony mineral vibe and a
bit of dried herbs. It’s got some grip to it, but it’s smooth enough to enjoy right now. It’s a
big, honest Cab that finishes clean and makes you want another sip.
Winemaking
We treated this lot with a lot of respect but didn't overcomplicate things. After fermentation,
we tucked it away for 22 months in French oak barrels. We only used 15% new oak because
we wanted to round out the edges without making the wine taste like a sucking on a popsicle
stick. Elerding Vineyard is a Sustainable WA certified site, meaning they give a damn about
the land and the future of Washington wine, and that quality shows up in the glass. We kept
the winemaking straightforward and honest to let the vineyard do the talking.
Food Pairing
This is a wine made for a real meal. Fire up the grill for a thick ribeye or some charred burgers
with grilled onions. It’s great with a hearty beef stew or even just a wood-fired pepperoni
pizza if you’re keeping it simple. If you’re doing a cheese plate, grab some sharp cheddar or
something smoky. It’s built for good food and better company—nothing fancy required.
Technical Data
Alcohol: 14% ABV
Production: 89 cases