2005 Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley

Accompanied: Angus Steak / Grilled, Broccoli, baked potatoe

Sealed: Natural Cork

Abv. 14.2%

Tasted: August 9, 2009

Label Description:

“Our Indian Wells series wines showcase a signature fruit forward, mouth-watering style. Wines from the area are intensely ripe and boldly flavored. The Indian Wells Cabernet Sauvignon is a decadent, fruit-driven wine with lush texture and concentrated blackberry and black cherry flavors.”

RATING: Very Satisfied

As I often do, I pull the cork and look to see if there is any damage or indication the seal may have been compromised. In this case the cork was clean with a dark wine stain at the bottom and nothing on the side… looking good!

I then always take a quick smell of the bottle itself to check for TCA or similar. Whow! Not only no TCA but  already very strong bouquet of fresh berries and black cherry… knew this was going to be good!

And it was …

Dark garnet in color with a very pleasing aroma of black berries and cherry. Good mouth feel with well integrated medium tannins and oak, and a solid finish.

This is the second or third time I have tried this wine with consistent impression each time. This wine is a solid thumbs up with very good QPR at a retail price of $18 / ($16.20 in a case or mixed case) This is a wine I would seek out and highly recommend.