2020 Cabernet Sauvignon has enticing aromas of dark and red fruit, integrated with French Oak makes a great first impression.  This is a wine of distinction.  Flavors of black cherry and plum abound, the wine has a long, rich, complex finish supported by a healthy amount of tannin that is balanced from the wine's fruit concentration.  Aged 20 months in New French Oak barrels .

97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cab Franc

350 Cases produced.

Winemaker Marv Crum

Amongst Covale's trio of 2021 releases, the Cabernet Franc is by far the more feminine in style of the three. While some Cab Francs exhibit vegetal or green pepper notes, not this one. Instead there's a ripeness that shows pure fruit with a bit of dark cherry and sarsaparilla notes, along with a subtle but pleasant chocolately carmel backdrop and a kiss of toasty oak. This is a gorgeous wine that is so easy to like it will be appreciated by a wide array of wine lovers, with a soft, silky finish. Look forward to a wine that is slightly darker and richer than most Cabernet Franc's out there, and if you haven't had winemaker Marv Crum's Cabernet Franc before, expect it to change what you think of this varietal.

- David LeClaire, Sommelier

Winemaker Marv Crum

We can't wait to see where this wine goes from here, because it's pretty amazing already just upon release. This is a classic, rockstar Cabernet with everything you want from the king of grapes, and more. Expect a wine with enough structure to deliver a nice, long finish, along with enough rich dark fruit to provide the elusive balance winemakers strive for. We are honored to be able to source Quintessence Vineyard fruit for this Cabernet, experts in viticulture and easily one of the best vineyards in Washington State. Located on Red Mountain, known for its' heat and southwest exposure, this wine has both the fine, dusty tannins that you want in a Cab, along with the layers of red and black fruits and a silky texture you'd expect from a premier Cabernet. If you can't wait to enjoy this Cab by cellaring it, we can't blame you, life is short, and it's drinking good now.

- David LeClaire, Sommelier

Winemaker Marv Crum

It's been said that if it wasn't for Sideways, Washington State would have become known for great Merlot. And this wine is a great example of that, with the depth and power one would expect from a well-made classic Cabernet. Another gem from Red Mountain's Quintessence Vineyard, this wine is voluptuous, dark, and rich, yet has the subtle, soft tannins for the structure you'd expect in a world class wine. While sourced from one of Washington's best vineyards and AVA's, it was also aged in super-premium new French oak barrels. Notes of dried blueberry, ripe dark plum, and cassis along with just enough integrated oak to elevate this wine to a higher status than most would expect from a Merlot. This wine is approachable now and ready to redefine expectations for those lucky enough to experience it before it's gone forever.

- David LeClaire, Sommelier

Winemaker Marv Crum

While Cabernet Sauvignon is usually considered the top of the food chain when it comers to super premium big time reds, this Cabernet Franc delivers and would rival many of the best Cabs.  It has all of the layers of flavor you want along with great balance and an elegant, long finish.  Once again Marv Crum has crafted a spicy Cabernet Franc that will turn heads and make many fans until the last drop is gone.  Instead of the more typical herbaceous notes this varietal can be known for, this is a showcase of ripe dark fruits like black cherry and a little black currant, with some pleasant baking spices.  The tannins are present but refined, and the wine has a fun yet elegant personality. 

David LeClaire, Sommelier

This wine reminded me of why I like good wine so much. Every once in a while you taste a world class wine that just has the depth, finesse, and polish that makes you smile and want to immediately take another sip. Close your eyes when sipping and you might imagine aromas and flavors of dark plums, ripe blackberries, and maybe even blueberries, along with just a wisp of toasty oak and a kiss of vanilla and caramel. The wine is silky smooth with very subtle soft dusty tannins for the long finish you'd expect from a wine of this caliber. This cellar worthy Cab is surprisingly already approachable if you just can't wait. 

David LeClaire, Sommelier

Most people think of Merlot to be the softer, prettier red compared to the more masculine Cabernet. But this Merlot changes that perception quickly, with it's more Bordeaux like structure and finish. After decanting for an hour the blue and black fruits such as plum and blackberry along with a bit of olive, a touch of amaro flavors, and some woodsy background notes jump out, and the tannins soften a bit. If you decide to not cellar this wine, decant it and give it a little time to mellow and open up, and we'll all be glad you were patient.

David LeClaire, Sommelier