Matthews Winery Claret Columbia Valley 2021 (750ml)
Product price
Description
All five Bordeaux red varietals find their way into this Columbia Valley blend from Matthews Winery, with Cabernet Sauvignon leading at 34 percent, trailed closely by Cabernet Franc and Merlot, then small portions of Malbec and Petit Verdot. The 2021 spent nineteen months in French oak, about a quarter of it new, and it represents a deliberate shift in style for the house toward something more polished and intentional.
The aromatics open on a savory note, wild anise and a whisper of incense before the fruit arrives, ripe and fleshy but cut through by a linear, almost crunchy freshness that keeps everything in line. Red and black berries gather alongside dried thyme and white peppercorn, with oak and spice layering in behind. The tannins are fine-grained, the acidity succulent, and the finish is generous and food-friendly, the kind of wine that makes you reach for the table.
Product Details
| Category | Wine |
| Color | Red |
| Country | USA |
| Region | Washington |
| Subregion | Columbia Valley |
| Varietal | Bordeaux Blend Red |
| Producer | Matthews Winery |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Size | 750 ML |
| Subtype | Still |
Expert Reviews
A Cabernet dominant blend of all five Bordeaux varietals. This wine's wild anise savoury notes drive forward the aromatics, followed by ripe fruits and a touch of frankincense. There is a linear element to the fruit that cuts through the ripe, fleshy palate. It comes together with notes of dried thyme, white peppercorn, and dollops of red and black berries. There is an undeniable ripeness with a crunchy fruit character that brings it home.
Made from 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 29% Merlot, 5% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2021 Claret opens with a broad, deep and juicy profile. It marks a monumental shift in the house style, showcasing a step in the right direction for quality-focused wine crafted with specific intentions. This wine is big and juicy, with a generous and well-rounded character that is not lacking in any aspect. The Claret is fresh and complex, unfolding fruit, oak and spice layers. It features fine-grained tannins and succulent acidity, creating a brilliant and flavorful finish that has me craving food. Bravo. The wine aged 19 months in 27% new French oak. The 2021 vintage marks a pivotal point for the Matthews brand. 60,996 bottles produced.