“ACHIEVING PERFECTION”

”Rasa Vineyards has earned an enviable reputation for crafting wines of extraordinary quality, but the recent release of their Cabernet Sauvignon marked a new pinnacle. I was compelled to award this wine a rare 100-point score—a testament to its near-perfect harmony of flavor intensity, structural balance, and complexity. This Cabernet is profound, with layers of nuanced aromas and flavors, seamless tannins, and an exceptionally long, memorable finish. It stands as a benchmark, not only for Rasa but for Washington wines as a whole.

With a deep, radiant purple-red core and a vivid crimson rim, the 2021 Naravane Cabernet Sauvignon immediately commands attention—both visually and aromatically. This is a wine of stunning depth and detail, revealing an intricate aromatic mosaic that evolves with each swirl: ripe black cherries and wild mountain blackberries emerge first, followed by layers of dried rose petals, cedarwood, and crushed thyme. Hints of eucalyptus and baking spice linger in the background, adding lift and nuance to the bouquet. On the palate, it delivers a thrilling interplay of richness, power, and finesse. Luxurious notes of black plum, cassis, and dark chocolate unfold gracefully, merging with delicate accents of crushed violets, graphite, and tobacco leaf. The wine’s architecture is impeccable—broad yet focused, with beautifully integrated, ultra-fine tannins and a line of acidity that brings freshness and drive. Despite its commanding structure, the wine glides effortlessly, showcasing precision and poise from start to finish. Beneath the surface lies a quiet intensity that promises decades of evolution. Each element—fruit, structure, acidity, and minerality—feels calibrated to perfection. Crafted with extraordinary care by Billo Naravane, this is not only a pinnacle for Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, but one of the finest expressions of the variety being made anywhere today. Profound, ageworthy, and deeply moving. Highly recommended and editor’s choice.”