1999 Columbia Crest Walter Clore Private Reserve
$25 and change
Decanted
3 hour consumption time

The nose was very reminiscent of the 1997 Cinq Cepages, gorgeous black/blue fruit, cherry, and subtle oak. A blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Merlot, showing brilliant ruby red color, and a medium body. The first couple of hours this wine drank nice with rich cassis, red cherry, red raspberry, chocolate, and sweet smoky oak flavors. I have to say on the last (large) glass the wine shifted gears and began to sing . It was an amazing tranformation. Healty mocha, and super sweet tannins infused with blueberry, and more doses of sweet cassis, red currants, and plum became apparent. A wonderful lingering finish and good balance. This wine is derserving of your attention if you see it in the $25-30 range.
Score 91+

Seek,

Thanks for the TN. I have always enjoyed CC wines. This is obviously one of their stelar bottlings. I will try and find it.

IW

Great to hear that they have done will with this one again in the 99 vintage. The Reserve Red has been a cellar fixture for several yearsnow and just about all of our friends that have tried it have really enjoyed it. I saw some at Beverages & More for $25.99 but am holding out until Longs gets some in. That may be hard though.

I just purchased 3 bottles of this a few days ago. I've never tried it before, but I regularly buy CC wines. One of my favorites for value priced wines from washington. Now I'm really looking forward to opening a bottle a probably buying a few more! Thanks for the tasting notes!

Funny, I posted on this wine just a few days ago with no responses:

http://web8.winespectator.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=003885

Great notes, Seek1. The wine truly is excellent. I can also recommend the 2000 Reserve Syrah, equally as impressive.

Thanks for the notes seek. I picked up three of these not too long ago.