2012 Pursued by Bear Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Masculine complexity is not an oxymoron.
If men are as simple as said to be, they should be easily understood.
Kyle MacLachlan, known for his roles in Twin Peaks and other iconic shows, adds "winemaker" to his repertoire. His Pursued by Bear project, a collaboration with Dunham Cellars, produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington's renowned Columbia Valley. The 2012 vintage offers a compelling snapshot of this wine's style.
Pursued by Bear: A Passion Project
Pursued by Bear came about due to MacLachlan's passion for wine and his connection to Washington's growing wine scene. He partnered with Dunham Cellars, a well-respected winery with access to top vineyard sites, to create powerful yet elegant Cabernet Sauvignons.
Columbia Valley: Ideal for Cabernet
The vast Columbia Valley AVA encompasses several smaller wine regions in Eastern Washington. Warm days, cool nights, and well-drained soils create perfect conditions for ripening Cabernet Sauvignon while retaining freshness.
The 2012 Vintage: A Warm Welcome
The 2012 growing season in Columbia Valley was exceptionally warm, which led to ripe and concentrated grapes. Careful vineyard and winemaking techniques are essential in harnessing that power without sacrificing elegance.
Tasting Notes: 2012 Pursued by Bear Cabernet
Appearance: Deep ruby red with potential for a slight brick rim suggesting its maturity.
Aroma: Expect a mix of blackberry, cassis, dark cherry, cedar, tobacco, and a hint of vanilla and spice.
Palate: Full-bodied with rich dark fruit flavors, complemented by notes of mocha, spice, and fine-grained tannins. A balanced acidity keeps it fresh.
Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering dark fruit and a subtle savoury quality.
Food Pairings
The 2012 Pursued by Bear Cabernet Sauvignon demands bold flavours:
Grilled Steak: A classic pairing, try it with ribeye or New York Strip.
Lamb Burgers with Mediterranean Toppings: The acidity cuts through the richness.
Hard Cheeses: Aged cheddar or Gouda complement the wine's complexity.
Cellaring Potential
While ready to enjoy now, the 2012 vintage has the potential to continue evolving gracefully for several more years with ideal cellaring. Expect additional complexity and a softer tannic structure to emerge.
Where to Find It
Older vintages from specific producers might be challenging to find. Here's where to try:
Winery Website: Pursued by Bear might offer library wines for sale.
Online Wine Retailers: Check websites specializing in older or boutique wines.
Wine Auctions: Platforms offering aged wines might have listings.
A Taste of Washington Cabernet
Pursued by Bear Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Wines offer a delicious peek into Washington State's Cabernet prowess. Whether a fan of Kyle MacLachlan or simply a lover of bold yet balanced reds, this wine is worth seeking out.