Hottest day of the year so far in the Pacific Northest Westest, which called for a barbecued steak with a tomato and onion salad outside on the patio with a nice red wine. Could not have chosen better than the 2014 Woodward Canyon Charbonneau. An iconoclastic Bordeauxish field blend (41% CS, plus merlot, CF and PV) that WC's been making since forever from an old distressed vineyard overlooking Washington's Snake River that rarely produces more than two tons per acre, and for that reason sadly destined for demolition by the vineyard's owner, this vintage could be the last for one of my personal favorites (woe is me).
Drank well immediately upon opening, decanting not required. Sure airtime gently adds to the wine's presence but it's a journey you'll want to take. No sediment. Highly aromatic nose leaning more toward black currant than black cherry with graphite, tobacco and licorice. There is nothing typically-Washington about this wine. It's more feminine than masculine, but assertively so in a way that's capable, not pushy, and pretty while it's doing it. A joy to drink. Bought three bottles when I visited the winery last year, should have bought more. Can't think of a cabbish Washington red I like more.