The Kind of Wine that Made us Fall for Washington: Cadence

Who is making the best Bordeaux blends in Washington? In our expert opinions, if you have to count on ten fingers, Cadence is unquestionably one. These are the kinds of wine that made us love Washington red wine back in the day and damn if it isn't great to taste that! 

What's interesting is how comparatively low-key and decidedly under-the-radar they are. We're going to do our part to change that, starting today. Consider the gauntlet thrown, the signal sent: if you're a fan of Washington Bordeaux-style wines, your collection isn't complete without Cadence.

We just finished tasting the 2014 vineyard blends and holy expletives, these two are gorgeous.

Cadence Ciel du Cheval Vineyard 2014

$39.55 in any 12 bottle or Build a Case* order ($43.95 regular) 

The kind of wine that made me love Washington back in 2004, with a unicorn-like combination of dense structure and nearly impossible deliciousness. The nose pulls you in with graphite and spice-accented black fruits and the palate bursts with elegantly mouth-filling flavor before showing off its perfectly chewy density. The whole package resonates -- sings really, for minutes -- through the finish, showing off Ciel du Cheval soil mixing with sweet tannin. 33% Cab, 33% Cab Franc, 25% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot. 100% recommended. - Marcus

Cadence Bel Canto 2014

$53.95 in any 12 bottle or Build a Case* order ($59.95 regular) 

95+ points Wine Advocate: "Made from 50% Cabernet Franc, 38% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot, the 2014 Bel Canto sports a deep ruby color as well as sensational notes of graphite, leafy herbs, flowers, currants and dried soil. Elegant, seamless, silky and pure, with building, polished tannin, it's another wine that's the best to date from this terrific estate."

Sometimes I read a review and find there's little I can add in the way of wine descriptors. Jeb Dunnuck of the Wine Advocate nailed it here, and I can concur with the elegance and seamlessness while adding that this is as regal in style as Washington wine gets. It is pure class -- a brilliant harnessing of Washington's potential. - Marcus

We're looking forward to helping you with an order. Thanks for your support!