1989 Woodward Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley

The 1989 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a magnificent nose of sweet red and black fruits, licorice, spices, oak, and herbs. In the mouth, the wine reveals a claret-like stylishness, medium body, elegant yet rich flavors, firm tannins, decent acidity, and a long, intense finish. It was bottled unfiltered, so purchasers should expect some sediment to develop over the next decade or more. Ideally it needs several years to shed some tannins, but this beautifully made Cabernet should last 12-15 years. Woodward Canyon's two red wines in 1989 are only slightly less impressive than their blockbuster 1988s. Unfortunately, Woodward Canyon's wines are difficult to obtain given the modest quantities produced, but they are among the most interesting wines being made in America. www.woodwardcanyon.com.