
The 2016 Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon from Columbia Valley, Washington, USA, is a notable expression of Cabernet Sauvignon. Produced by Quilceda Creek, this wine features a 15.2% alcohol content and is sealed with a cork. This red wine is widely appreciated by professional reviewers and has garnered high ratings.
Jeb Dunnuck awarded this wine a score of 98, noting that it has "a more classic profile than the more sexy, massive 2015" and praising its "beautiful notes of creme de cassis, lead pencil shavings, graphite, dried herbs, and loamy earth." Dunnuck also highlighted its "full-bodied, incredibly pure and perfectly balanced" nature, comparing it favorably to the 2002 vintage for its "uber classic, balanced yet broad and powerful style" (jebdunnuck.com, 4/11/2019).
Wine Spectator also reviewed the wine positively, giving it a score of 93. According to their review, the wine "combines polish with a firm, complex structure," featuring "blackberry, black olive, and smoky accents" that build richness towards "fine-grained tannins." They recommend enjoying the wine from 2021 through 2027 (Wine Spectator, 4/24/2019).
James Suckling rated the wine 95, emphasizing its "impressive composure" and aromas of "cedar and dark berries," with a focus on fresh fruit and "oak-derived spices." Suckling appreciated the "superb tannins," describing them as "super fine but dense and ripe" and noted that the wine carries long on the finish (jamessuckling.com, 7/5/2019).
Wine Enthusiast also gave the wine a 95, recognizing Quilceda Creek as a "benchmark in Washington since its first vintage in 1979." They described the wine with "aromas of pitch-black cherry, graphite and spice," leading to "ripe, intense, layered dark-fruit flavors" supported by "velvety but firm tannins." The review suggests the wine will benefit from time in the cellar, recommending it be enjoyed after 2026 (Wine Enthusiast, 10/1/2019).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon at 98, praising its "precise and generous" nature with a "robust, boisterous and fruity nose." The review highlighted flavors of "juicy plum, black raspberry, cocoa nibs, and cinnamon cherries" with "elegant baking spice tones and enticing floral essence." The wine remains "juicy with lively tannins and expressive flavors" and is starting to hit its stride with additional years in the bottle (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 4/8/2021).
Overall, the 2016 Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon is a highly regarded wine with excellent reviews across the board, showcasing a well-balanced and complex profile ideal for both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging.