Introduction:
The 2019 Corliss Secret Squirrel Cabernet Sauvignon from Columbia Valley is a powerful, meticulously crafted Washington State Cabernet that reflects Corliss Estates’ signature intensity, precision, and age-worthy structure. Produced in very limited quantities, Secret Squirrel represents a hidden-gem cuvée—rich, concentrated, and unapologetically bold—while maintaining balance and polish through disciplined winemaking.

Terrior:
Fruit is sourced from select Columbia Valley vineyards, where warm continental conditions promote full ripeness and concentration, and cool evenings help preserve acidity and structure. Soils throughout the region—ranging from basalt-derived gravel and sandy loam to silty alluvium—provide excellent drainage and contribute mineral tension. These conditions are ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon, yielding wines with dark fruit depth, firm tannins, and longevity.

Appearance:
Opaque inky garnet with a nearly black core and slow-forming, stained legs. The wine shows exceptional density and saturation, indicative of concentration and extract.

Nose:
Deep and brooding, with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark plum layered with graphite, espresso, cocoa powder, and cedar. Savory notes of dried herbs, tobacco leaf, and crushed stone emerge with aeration, adding complexity and dimension.

Palate:
Full-bodied and muscular, delivering concentrated dark fruit framed by firm, fine-grained tannins. Flavors of cassis, black cherry, and ripe blackberry are supported by notes of dark chocolate, espresso, vanilla bean, and subtle baking spice. Despite its power, balanced acidity keeps the palate focused and structured rather than heavy.

Finish:
Exceptionally long and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, mineral notes, and drying yet polished tannins. The finish is savory and authoritative, signaling excellent aging potential.

Food Pairings:

• Meat: Grilled ribeye; dry-aged New York strip; braised beef short ribs

• Vegetarian: Mushroom and lentil stew; roasted portobello with balsamic glaze; black truffle risotto

• Charcuterie Board: Aged cheddar; manchego; bresaola; cocoa-dusted almonds

Overall Impression:
Combining its sun-driven Columbia Valley terroir, inky appearance, intense dark-fruit and savory aromatics, powerful yet balanced palate, and commanding finish, the 2019 Corliss Secret Squirrel Cabernet Sauvignon is a serious, cellar-worthy wine. Best enjoyed with robust, protein-rich dishes or after extended decanting, it exemplifies the bold, structured style for which Corliss is known.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.8%
Farming Practices: Sustainably farmed vineyard sources
Producer Name: Corliss Estates
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington
Grape Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2019
Wine Style: Still red; full-bodied; concentrated; age-worthy
Winemaking Techniques: Small-lot fermentation; extended maceration; aging in French oak barrels (predominantly new)
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Bordeaux-style bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork

• Corliss Estates producer notes and release information
• Columbia Valley AVA viticultural and regional references