Chateau Ste. Michelle produces good wines across the board. Their new releases of Cabernet Sauvignon are all competently made, correct, above average quality wines. All three vintages exhibit fine color and ripeness, medium body, crisp, tart acidity, and compact personalities. If this winery could get their acidity level lower, the wines would possess more interesting textures and an even broader appeal. Nevertheless, they are cleanly made Cabernet Sauvignons for drinking in their first 5-6 years of life. Where well-stored, they may last even longer.

Chateau Ste. Michelle produces good wines across the board. Their new releases of Cabernet Sauvignon are all competently made, correct, above average quality wines. All three vintages exhibit fine color and ripeness, medium body, crisp, tart acidity, and compact personalities. If this winery could get their acidity level lower, the wines would possess more interesting textures and an even broader appeal. Nevertheless, they are cleanly made Cabernet Sauvignons for drinking in their first 5-6 years of life. Where well-stored, they may last even longer.

Tight, firm and chewy, with a pretty beam of ripe, spicy currant and black cherry flavors enlivened by crisp acidity and flanked by firm tannins. Needs time to soften and mellow. Start drinking around 1998. -