2022Cabernet Sauvignon
2022Cabernet Sauvignon
The 2022 Tenor Cabernet Sauvignon is a celebration of the layered texture and expressive depth that can only come from Columbia Valley’s most dynamic vineyard sites. Sourced from our most prized vineyard parcels—including Quintessence and Canyons (Red Mountain AVA), Wallula Gap (Horse Heaven Hills AVA), and Scarline (Royal Slope AVA)—this wine embodies the diversity and precision that define our mission at Tenor.
A relatively cool growing season in 2022 gave way to a late surge of warmth, extending ripening and pushing harvest to November 9—our latest pick date on record. Hand-harvested in the cool morning hours, the fruit arrived at the winery in pristine condition, retaining vibrant acidity and refined tannin structure.
Each lot was carefully sorted, cold-soaked, and fermented in small tanks, with over 30 days of extended maceration to unlock depth and complexity. The wine was then aged for 21 months in 100% new French oak, where it developed additional layers of structure and polish.
Only 11 barrels were selected for the final blend—100% Cabernet Sauvignon composed of six distinct clones: 2, 4, 6, 8, 21, and 191. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, this wine is a pure, vibrant, and age-worthy expression of Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon at its most refined.
Tasting Notes
This Cabernet Sauvignon captivates with a dense, dark garnet hue, hinting at a vibrant core. The nose is a symphony of ripe blackberry and black cherry, mingling with elegant cedar spice and the alluring richness of cacao nibs. The palate unfolds with a sumptuous wave of juicy plum, refined cassis, crushed violets, and a delicate thread of star anise. Broad-shouldered and viscous, the full-bodied texture is remarkably elevated by a seamless tapestry of fruit, tannin, and structure. The finish lingers with sweet spice nuances, decadent black fig, and seductive raspberry liqueur.
Varietal Composition
100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Awards & Accolades
"Despite its massive scale, there’s remarkable balance, with each component pulsing in sync. As it moves, you’ll find subtleties of cigar box, lavender, and dried sage tucked beneath the surface. Though it already hints at greatness, the wine is tightly wound and built for the long haul. A prolonged decant is essential if opened early, though patience will be richly rewarded. Highly recommended and editor’s choice."
98 points, Jeremy Young, International Wine Report
"Creamy texture brings the full-bodied palate into focus on the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, steeped in soft cassis, plum, and a richness of milk chocolate. Supple tannins add length and breadth, with grip biting just beneath. This is a lovely, layered wine that should age another 12-15 years."
95 points, Virginie Boone, jebdunnuck.com
"A floral gardenia note is swept up in a breeze of Bing cherry, dark chocolate and fig compote aromas. The same cherry appears on the palate as a flavor, along with cacao nibs, black coffee and a whisper of citrus. Fine-grained tannins unite with the wine's elevated acidity to create a perfect support team. This wine is only offering a snapshot of its potential at the moment. CELLAR SELECTION"
95 points, Michael Alberty, Wine Enthusiast
"Matured for 21 months in 100% new French oak, the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon has detailed aromas of chocolate-covered cherries, salumi, licorice, lavender and soy sauce. The full-bodied palate pairs mineral-laced flavors with pixelated tannins and fireworks of fresh acidity, and it has a very long, floral finish. It has a latency that suggests it will benefit from several years in the cellar. 258 cases were made."
94+ points, Erin Brooks, The Wine Advocate