Need Northwest Red Suggestions

[winelessinseattle]

Hi all! I just found this list today and am looking forward to learning about wines! Does anyone have any suggestions for a good Cab? I'm in the Northwest and have tried some really good ones like Quilceda Creek and Leonetti, but am in of some more "affordable" ones. I've got a dinner party coming up and would like to serve a decent bottle. Doesn't have to be Northwest, I'm open to other regions as well. Thanks in advance for any advice!

[Innkeeper]

Hi W.L.I.S. and welcome to the Wine Board. Not sure what is "more affordable" but a wonderful cab from your area is made by Kiona. Sells in the mid 20s.

[wondersofwine]

Others have recommended Snoqualmie Cabernet or Cabernet/Merlot blend. I liked their Merlot when I don't always like Merlot as a varietal, so imagine I would like the C.S. even more.

[winelessinseattle]

Hmmm, I've heard of Kiona. What about their Merlot? Is that good too? CS is always a good choice too, very reliable. Thanks for the suggestions!!

[stevebody]

Welcome to the screwy world of WA bargain Cabs! Not much to see here. Most everybody who introduces a new Cab prices it at $30 right off the bat. Here's a list of stuff I sell to my customers a lot. BTW, come into Esquin at 2700 South Fourth and I'll show you these personally.

Sand Hill: About $22 and worth a LOT more.
Columbia Crest Grand Estates: Maybe the best $10 Cab in the state.
Austin Robaire Columbia Valley: About $24. Flawless and rich.
Kestrel: Amazing Cab that gets better every vintage. Goes for around $26 usually; $20.99 from me.
Waterbrook Red Mountain: GREAT juice! About $20 and the essence of rich and deep.
DiStefano: Fine French-styled claret. About $25
Cascade Cliffs: Underrated, underappreciated.
Snoqualmie Reserve: Maybe THE most underappreciated fine Cab in the state. Joy Anderson has great fruit and knows how to craft a big but balanced Cabernet. Usually about $20.

Must respectfully disagree on the Kiona

Powers '00. Nice, about $10
COMING SOON: Fox Estates. Wonderful Cab, with a lovely balance and forward fruit but a ton of character. About $15.