2014 The Widowmaker
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Tasting notes
The irresistible 2014 Widowmaker is classic in every possible way. A bouquet of graphite, grange shavings and sage complement notes of blackcurrants and cedary spice. This is sweeping and elegant, with velvety textures lifted by vibrant acidity. Ripe red and black fruits swirl throughout, giving way to a balsamic tinge toward the close. Crunchy tannins resonate over a saturation of primary fruit while this finishes incredibly long and potent yet fresh, leaving notes of red plum and licorice that linger on. This is a testament to Cabernet Sauvignon from Walla Walla.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Eric Guido, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(14.4% alcohol; this vineyard was planted in 2000; aged in 50% new oak puncheons, mostly from Taransaud): Bright medium ruby. Knockout nose combines blackcurrant, blueberry, Damson plum, orange zest, espresso, hot rocks and smoked meat. Wonderfully fine-grained, tight wine with a savory meaty quality nicely complemented by fresh berry fruit. Lovely use of oak here. Very nicely balanced Cabernet with a strong saline quality and rich, tactile tannins. Boasts excellent length and finesse for such a big wine.
Getting a big "Wow!" from me, the 212-case 2014 The Widowmaker sports a deep, inky color (darker than any current vintage) to go with a masculine, Chateau Latour-like bouquet of blackcurrants, graphite, tobacco leaf and cedar. Rich, full-bodied, decadent and powerful, with ripe and polished tannin, it's a sensational Bordeaux blend from one of Washington's greats! Bravo.