2014 Quilceda Creek, CVR $51.50

Winery info: Founded in 1979 by Alex Golitzen in Snohomish. They have always been dedicated to the production of world class Washington state Cabernet and produce some of the most highly-aclaimed and award winning wines in the state.

Winemaker: Alex’s son Paul Golitzen, assisted by Marv Crum and Jesse Schmidt.

Grapes: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec, from declassified lots that did not make in into their flagship wines.

Vineyard source: Champoux, Palengat, Tapteil, and Wallula Gap vineyards

Flavor profile: Inviting aromas of spice and dark chocolate lead to perfectly balanced flavors of black and red fruit. 2014 was a warm and even vintage, producing a wine that is very lush and approachable.

Production/Availability: This is always a limited wine, but we get a decent allocation and can probably get more.

Drinkability: Even though it is young, this wine is drinking beautifully now but you could definitely let it evolve for another seven to ten years.

Food Pairing: As always, an excellent match for grilled meats, ribs, or other hearty fare.

2012 Forgeron Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, $37

Winery info: After studying and training in her native France, Marie-Eve Gilla came to the U.S. to further her winemaking experience. She worked at several northwest wineries, including Argyle, Hogue, and Covey Run, before founding Forgeron Cellars in Walla Walla, in 2001. As she says on her website, she creates “substantial wine of eloquent American character—with just a hint of French accent!”

Winemaker: Marie-Eve Gilla

Grapes: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot,

Vineyard source: Sourced from some of the top Cabernet vineyards in the Walla Walla and Columbia valleys, including Dionysus, and LaCoye on Red Mountain. From the classic 2012 vintage, with its warm summer and perfect autumn growing season.

Flavor profile: Fruit from the warm Dionysus Vineyard provides lush, vibrant, ripe flavors and forms the backbone of this wine. LaCoye fruit adds strength, richness, and structure. Altogether, the wine is full-bodied and elegant, with smooth dark flavors and a lovely silky texture.

Production/Availability: 792 cases produced. Still in good supply

Drinkability: Gorgeous now, but it should continue to gain complexity for another five to ten years.

Food Pairing: Marie-Eve suggests pairing it with braised short ribs, a juicy rib-eye steak, or a braised lamb shank.