14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon: A Bold and Flavorful Red Wine

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is a popular red wine known for its rich and juicy flavor profile. Produced in the Columbia Valley in Washington State, this wine is celebrated for its aromas of dark cherry, black currant, and coffee, with subtle hints of spice. The 14 Hands winery has gained recognition for its approachable and flavorful wines, and the Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception, offering a well-rounded and enjoyable drinking experience.

This wine is primarily a Cabernet Sauvignon, blended with additional varietals including Merlot and Syrah, resulting in a delightful combination of flavors. The 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon has a refined tannin structure and a touch of oak that complements the rich and robust flavors, making it a favorite among wine enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes, 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile and accessible choice for wine lovers seeking a classic red wine experience.

Overview of 14 Hands Winery

History

14 Hands Winery is a Washington-based winery that was established in 2005. The winery is located in the Columbia Valley, which is known for its unique terroir and ideal grape-growing conditions. The name "14 Hands" was inspired by the wild horses that once roamed the region, which were said to be about 14 hands tall.

Philosophy

The winery's philosophy is to create approachable, fruit-forward wines that are perfect for everyday drinking. They strive to create wines that are both affordable and of high quality, and their focus is on making wines that are easy to drink and pair well with a variety of foods.

The Reserve and Limited Releases

In addition to their regular lineup of wines, 14 Hands also produces a number of limited release and reserve wines. These wines are made from the best grapes and are aged in oak barrels to give them a more complex flavor profile. One of their most popular limited release wines is the Unicorn Collection, which features unique blends that are only available for a limited time.

New Releases

14 Hands Winery is constantly releasing new wines to keep up with changing tastes and trends. Their most recent releases include a 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, which has received high praise from critics for its bold, fruity flavor and smooth finish.

All Wines

14 Hands Winery produces a wide range of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. Their most popular wines include their Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. They also produce a number of blends, such as their Hot to Trot Red Blend, which is a blend of Syrah, Merlot, and other red varietals.

Overall, 14 Hands Winery is known for producing high-quality, affordable wines that are perfect for everyday drinking. With their focus on approachability and fruit-forward flavors, they have become a favorite among wine lovers across the country.

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon

Vintage Profiles

The 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon offers a range of vintage profiles, with the 2022 vintage showcasing the winery's commitment to quality and consistency. Each vintage reflects the unique characteristics of the Columbia Valley, capturing the essence of the region's terroir and climate.

Tasting Notes

With its signature aroma and flavor profile, the 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon boasts bold and rich characteristics, featuring a harmonious balance of tannins and acidity. The wine exhibits notes of dark cherry, complemented by hints of spice and oak, creating a velvety texture that lingers on the palate.

Vineyard and Terroir

Sourced from select vineyards in the Columbia Valley appellation, the 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon benefits from the region's diverse terroir, including its unique soil composition and microclimates. This contributes to the wine's depth and complexity, making it a standout representation of the area's winemaking prowess.

Wine Characteristics

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is a rich, juicy red wine that boasts comforting aromas of dark cherry, black currant, and coffee with subtle hints of spice. The wine is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 2% Malbec, which gives it a complex flavor profile.

Aroma and Flavor

The wine features aromas of dark cherry, black currant, and coffee with subtle hints of spice. It also has notes of plum, spicy oak, vanilla, and cranberry. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with flavors of black cherries, currants, and berries. The refined tannins and a touch of oak complement the flavors for an enjoyable finish.

Texture and Finish

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon has a smooth texture with a medium finish. The wine is well-balanced, with a good acidity level that makes it easy to drink. The tannins are firm, but not overpowering, which makes it a great wine to enjoy on its own or with food.

Food Pairings

The wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and hard cheeses. It also goes well with hearty pasta dishes and stews. The wine's rich flavor profile and smooth texture make it a great wine to enjoy with food or on its own.

Overall, 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is a well-balanced and flavorful wine that is perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavor profile and smooth texture make it a great wine to enjoy with food or on its own.

Wine Varietals and Blends

When it comes to wine, varietals and blends are two terms that are often used interchangeably. However, there is a difference between the two. A varietal wine is made from a single grape variety, while a blend is made by combining two or more grape varieties.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the world's most popular grape varieties, known for its full-bodied flavors of black currant, blackberry, and tobacco. It is a thick-skinned grape that is resistant to disease and can grow in a variety of climates. Cabernet Sauvignon is often blended with other grape varieties to create complex and balanced wines.

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 2% Malbec. It has aromas of dark cherry, black currant, and coffee, with subtle hints of spice. The wine has refined tannins and a touch of oak that complement the flavors for an enjoyable finish.

Merlot and Blends

Merlot is another popular grape variety that is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon to create balanced and complex wines. Merlot is known for its soft, velvety texture and flavors of black cherry, plum, and chocolate.

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon also includes 12% Merlot in its blend. This addition gives the wine a softer texture and adds flavors of plum and chocolate to the mix. The 2% Malbec in the blend adds a touch of spice and complexity to the wine.

Overall, the blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec in 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon creates a balanced and complex wine that is enjoyable to drink on its own or paired with a variety of foods.

Wine Selection and Purchase

Choosing Your Wine

When selecting a wine, it is important to consider the occasion, your personal preferences, and the food you will be pairing it with. For those who enjoy bold, full-bodied wines, 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice. This wine boasts comforting aromas of dark cherry, black currant, and coffee with subtle hints of spice, making it a great complement to hearty meat dishes and rich pasta sauces.

Another important factor to consider when selecting a wine is the region it comes from. 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is produced in Columbia Valley, Washington, which is known for producing high-quality wines. The region's unique climate and soil conditions give the wine its distinctive taste and character.

Value for Money

When it comes to purchasing wine, value for money is an important consideration. 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon offers excellent value for money, with a price point that is accessible to many wine enthusiasts. The wine's rich flavor and bold character make it a great choice for those looking for a high-quality wine at an affordable price.

In addition to its affordability, 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is also widely available at wine retailers and online. This makes it easy to purchase and enjoy, whether you are a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of wine.

Overall, 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice for those looking for a bold, full-bodied wine that offers excellent value for money. Its rich flavor and distinctive character make it a great complement to a wide range of dishes, and its accessibility and affordability make it a great choice for any occasion.

Winemaking Process

From Vine to Bottle

The 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is made using a traditional winemaking process that starts with the careful selection of grapes from the Columbia Valley. The grapes are harvested at their peak ripeness to ensure maximum flavor and aroma.

Once the grapes are harvested, they are destemmed and crushed to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature to preserve the wine's natural fruit flavors and aromas. During fermentation, the wine is punched down several times a day to ensure uniform color and tannin extraction.

After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels to add complexity and depth to the wine. The oak aging process imparts flavors of vanilla, spice, and toast to the wine, which complement the bold fruit flavors of the Cabernet Sauvignon.

Oak Aging

Oak aging is an important part of the winemaking process for the 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is aged in a combination of new and used French and American oak barrels for 12-18 months, depending on the vintage.

The oak barrels used for aging are carefully selected to ensure they complement the wine's flavor profile. New oak barrels impart more intense flavors of vanilla, spice, and toast, while used oak barrels provide a more subtle oak influence.

The oak aging process also helps to soften the wine's tannins and add a smooth, creamy texture to the wine. The result is a rich, bold Cabernet Sauvignon with flavors of dark cherry, black currant, and rich coffee, complemented by a tantalizing undercurrent of spicy oak.

Overall, the winemaking process for the 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is designed to create a wine that is approachable, yet complex and flavorful. The careful selection of grapes, controlled fermentation, and oak aging all work together to create a wine that is perfect for any occasion.

Wine Enjoyment

Serving Suggestions

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of foods. It pairs well with grilled meats, hearty stews, and strong cheeses. The wine's bold characters of black currant, dark cherry, and espresso, with hints of spice, make it an excellent complement to rich and flavorful dishes.

When serving 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon, it is recommended to decant the wine for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the wine's flavors and aromas to fully develop, resulting in a more enjoyable drinking experience.

Tastings and Tours

For those who want to experience 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon in a more immersive way, the winery offers tastings and tours. Visitors can taste a variety of wines, including the approachable red that is the 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon, and learn about the winemaking process.

The winery's tasting room is open daily and offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can also take a tour of the winery and vineyards to learn more about the history and culture of winemaking in the Columbia Valley region.

Overall, whether enjoyed at home or experienced at the winery, 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that is sure to please. Its comforting aromas and bold flavors make it an excellent choice for those looking for an approachable yet flavorful red wine.

Pairing and Recipes

When it comes to pairing 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon, there are a variety of food and drink recipes that can complement the wine's rich and full-bodied flavor. Here are some ideas to inspire your next culinary adventure:

Food Recipes

  • Cranberry Jelly: This tangy and sweet jelly is the perfect accompaniment to a hearty meal featuring 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon. Simply combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan and cook until the berries burst and the mixture thickens. Serve chilled alongside your favorite savory dishes.
  • Cherry Compote: For a fruity and flavorful addition to your 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon pairing, try making a cherry compote. Combine fresh or frozen cherries with sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan and cook until the mixture thickens and the cherries soften. Serve warm or chilled with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
  • Plum Sauce: This sweet and savory sauce is a delicious way to complement the bold flavors of 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon. Simply simmer fresh plums with sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and spices until the mixture thickens and the plums break down. Serve warm or chilled with pork chops or roasted duck.

Drink Recipes

  • Cabernet Sauvignon Sangria: This refreshing and fruity cocktail is a perfect way to enjoy 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon on a hot summer day. Simply mix the wine with fresh fruit, such as oranges, lemons, and berries, and a splash of brandy or liqueur. Serve chilled in a pitcher or individual glasses.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon Cocktail: For a more sophisticated and elegant way to enjoy 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon, try making a cocktail with the wine. Combine the wine with a splash of bitters, simple syrup, and a twist of lemon or orange peel. Serve chilled in a martini glass or over ice in a rocks glass.

These are just a few examples of the many food and drink recipes that can be paired with 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, fruity or spicy, there is sure to be a recipe that will complement the wine's complex flavors and aromas. Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect pairing.

Winery Experiences

Events and Visits

Visitors to 14 Hands Winery can enjoy a variety of events and experiences throughout the year. The winery hosts several events, including live music performances, food and wine pairings, and holiday celebrations. Visitors can also take guided tours of the winery and vineyards, where they can learn about the winemaking process and the history of the winery.

One of the most popular events at 14 Hands Winery is the Barnwood and Wine event. During this event, visitors can enjoy a wine tasting while creating their own unique piece of art using reclaimed barnwood. This event is a great opportunity to get creative while enjoying some of the winery's best wines.

Cellar 14 Club

For those looking for a more exclusive experience, the Cellar 14 Club offers members access to limited edition wines and unique experiences. Members receive quarterly shipments of hand-selected wines, as well as invitations to members-only events and tastings.

In addition to exclusive wines, Cellar 14 Club members also have access to the winery's library wines, which are aged and rare vintages that are not available to the general public. Members also receive discounts on all purchases made at the winery and online.

Whether you're a casual wine enthusiast or a serious collector, the Cellar 14 Club offers a unique opportunity to experience the best that 14 Hands Winery has to offer.

Connecting with 14 Hands

14 Hands Winery is dedicated to providing the best customer service possible. They understand that their customers are the backbone of their business and want to make sure that they are always satisfied with their purchases. Here are a couple of ways to connect with 14 Hands:

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns about 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon or any of their other wines, you can contact their customer service team by phone or email. Their phone number is (509) 786-5514, and their email address is info@14hands.com. They are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm PST.

You can also connect with 14 Hands on social media. They have a presence on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. Follow them to stay up-to-date on their latest offerings and promotions.

Mailing List

If you want to stay informed about 14 Hands Winery, you can sign up for their mailing list. By doing so, you will receive regular updates about their new releases, special promotions, and events. To sign up, simply go to their website and enter your email address in the designated field. You will then receive a confirmation email, and you will be added to their mailing list.

In conclusion, 14 Hands Winery is committed to providing excellent customer service and wants to make sure that their customers are always satisfied. Whether you have a question or just want to stay informed about their latest offerings, there are several ways to connect with them.

Special Collections

14 Hands Winery offers a range of special collections that make perfect holiday gifts or a treat for yourself. Their collections include The Reserve, Vintage Series, and Unicorn Collection.

Holiday Gifts

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? 14 Hands Winery has a range of gift options to suit every taste and budget. Their gift collections include a variety of wines, from their classic Cabernet Sauvignon to their limited-edition Sweet Cabernet Sauvignon. They also offer gift cards that can be redeemed online or in person at their winery in Washington State.

Unicorn Story

14 Hands Winery's Unicorn Collection is inspired by the mythical creature that symbolizes magic and wonder. The collection includes a range of wines, from their Unicorn Rosé to their Unicorn Red Blend. Each bottle features a unique label design that captures the spirit of the unicorn. The winery also has a fun story behind the collection, which you can read on their website.

In addition to the Unicorn Collection, 14 Hands Winery also offers a range of other limited-release wines that are sure to delight any wine enthusiast. These wines are crafted from the best fruit and represent the winemakers' most cherished creations.

Whether you're looking for a special gift or a treat for yourself, 14 Hands Winery's special collections are sure to impress.