A Taste of Tradition – Big Papa Cabernet Sauvignon

Our Flagship Big Papa Cabernet Sauvignon is named in tribute to Daniel Ferrelli’s grandfather. The name “Big Papa” is passed down to the eldest of the Ferrelli Patriarch, making Daniel our current beloved “Big Papa”. This wine, made from some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the state, is a prime example of seriously great Washington Wine. Big Papa Cabernet Sauvignon embraces the legacy and spirit of our EFESTĒ family winemaking traditions.

What’s in a name?

Daniel Ferrelli’s grandfather, the original “Big Papa,” faced many challenges living in Chicago during the Great Depression and Prohibition. His family sold jug wine out of their brownstone basement just to get by. Despite these hardships, the tradition of winemaking remained strong in the Ferrelli family.

When Daniel was a young man, his grandfather moved from Chicago to Seattle to be closer to family. Upon arrival, they found an old winemaking press and continued the family tradition that had started long ago. Daniel recalls teaching his Big Papa how to write his signature, while his grandfather instilled in him the family tradition of winemaking. Starting at just 12 years old, Daniel learned the art of winemaking, crafting Zinfandel from grapes trucked up from Lodi, California. The entire Queen Anne neighborhood would have the telltale smell of fermentation during those times every year.

The old press found in Seattle was used every year from 1959 to 2003. From the OG Big Papa to the current Big Papa, the winemaking process included children, grandchildren, nephews, and nieces, making it a true family tradition. Over the years, Daniel continued this tradition, involving his son-in-law and EFESTĒ partner, Kevin Taylor, in the process. The vintage press, now displayed in EFESTĒ’s Woodinville tasting room, stands as a testament to Big Papa and the enduring family tradition.

The Winemaking Process

Four years ago, we transitioned our old vine Cabernet Sauvignon to a single-grower program sourced from the newly formed White Bluffs AVA. Returning this wine closer to its roots, the 2022 vintage is unfined and unfiltered. Sourced from some of Washington State’s oldest vineyards, including Bacchus, Sagemoor, and Dionysus Vineyards, we co-ferment this Cabernet Sauvignon for a unique, robust profile. The specialized oak program enhances the mouthfeel, providing excellent length and roundness to the tannins. Barrel aging in 60% new oak from Seguin Moreau, Boutes, and Garronnaise cooperages adds complexity.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Big Papa Cabernet Sauvignon opens with heavy, aromatic notes of dark fruits and spice. Its signature big, bloody, and earthy profile includes bold flavors of herbaceous black currant and plum. The finish is long and enduring, making it an ideal pairing for red meats and bold flavors. This wine will age well, with peak drinkability around 10 years from vintage.

The Vineyard

The White Bluffs AVA offers a unique terroir, characterized by cooler nighttime temperatures, which allow for a longer growing season. Soil consists of windblown silt over ancient lakebed sediment, with an annual precipitation average of 6 inches. The elevation spans from 600 to 900 feet on a southwestern slope with soft rolling knolls, providing a warm site with excellent air drainage. Sagemoor Vineyard, established in 1972, is a significant part of this AVA, including over 1,300 acres across six vineyards near the Columbia River in Pasco, WA.

Reviews and Accolades

Some highlighted acclaim for our recent vintages of Big Papa Cabernet Sauvignon:

2022 Vintage:

• Wine Enthusiast –91 Points
• Wine Spectator: “Well-sculpted and seductive in texture, this red shows expressive cherry flavors that are laced with mint and bramble. Finishes with polished tannins. Drink now through 2032.”–93 Points

2021 Vintage:

• James Suckling: “A juicy and mellow cabernet with notes of ripe cherries, plums, beets, and mint leaves. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a supple finish. Drink or hold.” –91 Points
• Paul Gregutt –92 Points

2020 Vintage:

• Jeb Dunnuck: “Semi-opaque ruby/plum-hued, it gives up a solid nose of red and black currants, savory herbs, lead pencil shavings, and Asian spices. It’s medium to full-bodied and has a beautifully polished, layered mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. This beautiful, elegant Cabernet knocks it out of the park in the vintage, and it’s going to evolve for two decades.” –95 Points

A Special Holiday Offer

From now until December 15, you can taste the legacy of our Big Papa Cabernet Sauvignon with our 12 Days of EFESTĒ Cheer 4-Pack at 2005 OG Pricing!

Also, get a taste of vintages past and save big on our 2017 Big Papa 1.5L Magnum!