Canvasback is one of the many labels under the famous "Duckhorn Vineyards." It is proudly the only Washington label. They debuted their first Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon in 2012, and soon after planted on their Estate "Longwinds Vineyard". They additionally source from other vineyards, including the the renowned Klipsun, Quintessence and Ciel du Cheval, to create a variety of different Cabernet Sauvignon styles that standout from their Californian sister wines.
2019 Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
“This lush & alluring wine begins with aromas of ripe strawberry, grenadine and Bing cherry that leap from the glass, followed by notes of sarsaparilla, root spices, black licorice, cinnamon & star anise. On the palate, it is both luxurious & energetic, with plush tannins & ripe red berry flavors balanced by enlivening energy & sophisticated hints of cigar wrapper, granitic minerality & sweet baking spices.”
Price $44
Rating 4.1
2019 Longwinds Cabernet Sauvignon
“Vibrant and alluring, this Cabernet Sauvignon offers tantalizing aromas of berry compote, black licorice and fennel, with hints of sagebrush & desert air mingling with ethereal floral layers. On the palate fine-grain tannins, bright acidity and a dynamic structure frame the generous berry and spice flavors, while carrying the wine to a long, resonant finish.”
Price $74
Rating 4.2
2019 Klipsun Cabernet Sauvignon
“Bursting forth with dark-fruit aromas of blueberry, black plum, and blackberry cobbler, with lifted notes of violet and pomegranate, as well as hints of chocolate and marmalade. Lush and hedonic, with voluptuous, mouthcoating layers of dark berries, robust, savory tannins and hints of cedar and sweet tobacco leaf that drive to a rich and sophisticated finish.”
Price $74
Rating 4.3
2019 Ciel du Cheval Cabernet Sauvignon
“Combining classic Red Mountain aromas of candied cherry, sarsaparilla, sage, & star anise with notions of Angostura bitters, grenadine, orange zest & juniper, this tantalizing wine draws you in with its bouquet. At the first sip, darker fruits emerge, with luxurious layers of blackberry & cassis mingling with subtle hints of tobacco leaf, cinnamon & spice. Throughout, shapely tannins frame the dynamic flavors of rich fruit & spice fireworks.”
Price $74
Rating 4.0
Canvasback's Cabernet Sauvignon lineup was a great education and comparison of the grapes from the various Walla Walla vineyard's. All the Cabs were lighter style, and our favorites were the 2019 Klipsun Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and 2019 Longwinds Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2019 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, coming from older vines, had the most terroir and tannins.
We were additionally offered the very good 2019 Walla Walla Syrah (rating 4.2) and a rare treat 2018 GSM (rating 4.5) - the latter they no longer produce, we were told. Interestingly, these were our favorites, which we purchased.
Finally, we absolutely loved the 2017 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Cabernet Franc (rating 4.6), but unfortunately it is sold out!
There is a cab for everyone at Canvasback. It is definitely a different cab than their Californian sister wines, but that's a good thing, and a great example of Washington's own style.
