Randy Dunn and Allen Shoup
Napa Valley vintner, Randy Dunn, has built a reputation over four decades for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignons. After making wines at Caymus from 1975-1985, Randy established Dunn Vineyards on Howell Mountain where he continues to craft distinctive wines of high acclaim. Now partnering with Allen Shoup, Randy brings his artistry and expertise to Washington State to produce small quantities of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Columbia Valley's finest vineyards.

Tasting Notes: Ripe and beautifully balanced, the 2005 Feather is a wine with great concentration and depth. Bursting with mocha-scented blackberry and plum flavors that offer a rich mouth-feel across a long, lingering finish. It is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon from a classic Columbia Valley vintage.

Vintage: Columbia Valley growing seasons are remarkably consistent, but the 2005 vintage may well be remembered as one of the finest to date. Ideal temperatures during the summer months allowed grapes to build perfect sugars, and then as if made to order, the vines slipped into a slow and even ripening pattern in September. Warm daytime and cool nighttime temperatures throughout the fall extended hang times and allowed us to pick at perfect maturity.

Winemaking: Randy visits his favorite Columbia Valley vineyards throughout the growing season to ensure low yields and proper canopy balance to promote even ripening. Once harvest is underway, he returns to taste and inspect the grapes' skins for dark complexions before making the call to pick. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is hand-harvested, fermented in small lots and aged 22 months in Vicard French oak, Randy's cooper of choice at Dunn Vineyards as well.

Vineyards: A diverse selection of Tri-Cities area vineyards (42%), including Sagemoor, provide deep color and ripe, flavorful tannins to the wine. Stillwater Creek Vineyard on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills (38%) adds bright, vibrant fruit characteristics. Grapes from Wallula, Champoux and Alder Ridge Vineyards in the Horse Heaven Hills (30%) add layers of earth, dark fruit and refined tannins.

Bottle Size: .750