For thoughts on Chateau Ste Michelle’s uniqueness and recent evolution, consult my extensive April, 2013 text designed to introduce recent tasting notes. The Ste. Michelle 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Canoe Ridge Estate is unblended save for a touch of Syrah such as finds its way into many of this winery’s otherwise Bordelais blends. Aged in diverse barrels 60% of which were new but are thankfully discreet, this displays the ripe dark cherry fruit with piquancy and cut of berry pip and skin and rich savor of blond tobacco, nut oils, dark chocolate, and nutmeg. The combination here of textural caress with vivacity is noteworthy – no doubt reflecting this relatively cool, prolonged growing season and windy, riverside location – and hints of salt and iodine add invigoration and saliva-inducement to a satisfyingly-sustained finish. Plan to enjoy this excellent value over the next half dozen years, though I would not be shocked to find it satisfying for significantly longer. Tel. (425) 488-1133

The purple-colored 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Canoe Ridge Estate was aged for 22 months in 60% new French and American oak. Enticing aromas of Asian spices, incense, violets, tobacco, blackberry, and plum lead to a savory, structured wine with excellent volume and depth. It has the structure to evolve for 1-2 years and will drink well through 2020. Chateau Ste. Michelle's portfolio remains strong.www.ste-michelle.com

A fine bottle — full, fleshy, immediately throwing out dense aromatics with toast and roasted coffee and bitter chocolate components. A deep vein of black cherry and cassis keeps the core tight and focused, and a small splash of Syrah adds the scent of black pepper. ——P.G.(5/1/2011)—— 91