Chateau Ste Michelle for The Seattle Times
October 18, 2017

What is it that makes cabernet sauvignon Washington’s reigning grape?

Cabernet sauvignon is known among winemakers and viticulturists worldwide as the king of grapes because of its rich aroma and flavor, high tannin levels in the skins and immense depth.

Washington state has become a kingdom ruled by cab in recent years, with a record-high harvest of 71,100 tons in fall 2016. That’s more than the total number of all varieties of grapes produced statewide in 1999.

Washington state cabernet sauvignon wines have become known around the world as an excellent quality-to-price value. “Comparing Washington, Napa, Bordeaux and Italy, our cabs are the most affordable, in part because our land is less expensive,” says Rob Bigelow, master sommelier and senior director of education and on-premise development at Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville. “Plus, Washington has the highest percentage of cabs that have scored 90 points or above in wine publications. That combination is unbeatable.”>>>Read entire article on The Seattle Times