Powerhouse wine reviewers Nathan and Courtney Marton of Winery Reflections recently posted a review of our 2021 New World Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon on their Instagram platform. Based in Southern California, Nathan and Courtney have always been very generous with their praise. They paid us a visit in person many years ago and actually made a return trip a few months ago to taste through the latest wines in person. We felt incredibly lucky to be on their itinerary when they were back in the Willamette Valley.
This is what they wrote:
Courtney and Nathan Marton of Winery Reflections in the Bells Up estate vineyard.
Intriguingly concentrated yet elegant undulations of freshly-picked blueberry, wild blackberry, dark cherry preserves, and licorice lead a deep yet strikingly ethereal display brilliantly lifted by fragrant floral tones of rose and blooming violet. Hints of toasted poblano pepper, tobacco, and pine resin gently reveal seductive herbal streaks interlaced with distinctly pretty baking spices of vanilla, nutmeg, and clove. Notes of graphite and crushed rocks expose beautiful underlying earthiness while delicate impressions of espresso and bittersweet chocolate impart a subtle kiss of opulence.
Impressively pure, balanced, and restrained on the palate with outstanding complexity present alongside uncommon softness and approachability; exhibiting a unique and highly characterful presentation that boasts an attractively silky texture and layer after layer of captivating depth. Medium bodied with moderate tannin backed by fresh acidity. This 2021 “New World” Summit View Vineyard Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon by Bells Up Winery is a nuanced and note-worthy red from the Walla Walla Valley.
Although Cabernet Sauvignon is frequently made into some of the most powerful and intense wine on the planet, this grape is also capable of possessing tremendous subtly and finesse when handled with a delicate touch. This bottling, crafted by Bells Up Winery using Cabernet Sauvignon grown at the Summit View Vineyard in Milton-Freewater, is an incredibly compelling example of Cabernet made in a decidedly classic style.
This leaps from the glass with aromatic blue and black fruits complimented by lifted floral character, delicate baking spices, clean herbs, complex earthiness, and understated coffee-led richness. It is absolutely sublime at its current stage yet also promises many decades of positive development ahead of it, and is sure to impress those who prioritize balance over brawn. Wow.
