2018Reserve Cuvée
2018Reserve Cuvée
The 2018 Matthews Reserve Cuvee was crafted from several small vineyard parcels across four separate AVAs in Washington State, primarily the Royal Slope and Red Mountain. Merlot-dominant, with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon blended in. Farmed using sustainable practices, the vines were limited to primarily one cluster per shoot or three clusters per spur to create maximum concentration in each cluster. They were hand-harvested in the early morning between September 12th– October 18th, 2018.
Powerful red fruits, white tea, spices and vanilla bean. Beautifully saturated on the nose with floral notes accenting the raspberry puree, dried strawberry, and red currants. Swirling brings density and sweet black fruits, with spun sugar reminiscent of caramelized pastry and fruit compote. The palate is remarkably plush with flawless tannins, sweet fruit and a gorgeously vibrant and lingering finish. It will age well, but with only a short amount of time after opening; it’s irresistible to drink.
Roast duck with caramelized onions
74% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit
Awards & Accolades
"This is the inaugural release of this wine, with Merlot making up just under three-quarters and the rest Cabernet Franc (16%), Cabernet Sauvignon (8%) and Petit Verdot (2%). Still settling in, baking spice aromas are out front, followed by notes of cinnamon and raspberry. Fruit and barrel intertwine on the palate. It needs time, but the stuffing is all there. Best after 2024."
93 points, Sean Sullivan, Wine Enthusiast
"The Merlot-dominant (74%) 2018 Cuvée Reserve shows off ripe dark currant tones alongside creosote, dried herbs and shades of milk chocolate on the nose. The palate is decadent and rich with great finesse. Silky tannins line a core of rich dark fruits with scorched earth and garrigue notes on the palate. Refined and delicious to consume now, this has a long way to go in the cellar."
92 points, Owen Bargreen, Vinous
AVAs
Red Mountain
Red Mountain
- Designated
- 2001
- Vineyards
- 2,382 acres (963 hectares)
- Top Varieties
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
- Average Annual Precipitation
- 5 inches
- Soil
- Silt, sand, volcanic basalt
- Average vine age
- 22yrs
