2018 Reserve Cuvée
The 2018 Matthews Reserve Cuvee was crafted from several small vineyard parcels across four separate AVAs in Washington State, primarily the Royal Slope and Red Mountain. Merlot-dominant, with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon blended in. Farmed using sustainable practices, the vines were limited to primarily one cluster per shoot or three clusters per spur to create maximum concentration in each cluster. They were hand-harvested in the early morning between September 12th– October 18th, 2018. Upon arriving in the winery, each cluster was hand-sorted, berry-sorted, and then fermented in 55% stainless steel and 45% concrete tanks either. Using only the free-run wine, it was then moved for 23 months to 100% new custom French oak barrels for cellaring with over 40 individual evaluations by our winemaking team. The resulting barrels were bottled, without fining or filtration, on September 21, 2020, producing only 266 cases.This wine is currently not available. Join the mailing list to stay informed about Matthews releases.
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93 points - Sean Sullivan, Wine Enthusiast
Tasting Notes
Powerful red fruits, white tea, spices and vanilla bean. Beautifully saturated on the nose with floral notes accenting the raspberry puree, dried strawberry, and red currants. Swirling brings density and sweet black fruits, with spun sugar reminiscent of caramelized pastry and fruit compote. The palate is remarkably plush with flawless tannins, sweet fruit and a gorgeously vibrant and lingering finish. It will age well, but with only a short amount of time after opening; it’s irresistible to drink.
Wine Facts
Labeled Appellation:
Columbia Valley
Vineyard(s):
Dionysus, Bacchus, Scarline, Stillwater Creek, Solaksen, Angela’s, Hedges Family Estate, Quintessence, Shaw 32, Canyons, Blue Mountain, Eritage
Varietal Composition:
74% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot
Vinification:
Fermented in 55% stainless steel and 45% concrete tanks. Aged for 23 months in 100% new French oak barrels.
Alcohol:
14.6%
Cases Produced:
266
Drinkability:
Now-2032
Trade Materials
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