Substance 'Cs' Cabernet Sauvignon
Substance 'Cs' Cabernet Sauvignon is Charles Smith's proof that Washington makes world-class Cabernet at an everyday price — the "Cs" standing for Cabernet Sauvignon, the variety this Columbia Valley bottling is built entirely from. Sourced from vineyards including Goose Ridge, Painted Hills, Badger Mountain, and Sportfisher, it is fermented with native yeast in 100% whole berries and bottled unfiltered and unfined. The result is a layered, deep Washington cabernet that drinks far above its price. It's available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
- Size: 750mL
- Origin: Columbia Valley AVA, Washington, USA
- Production: native yeast; 100% whole-berry fermentation; barrel-aged on lees; bottled unfiltered/unfined
- Winemaker: Charles Smith (K Vintners / Wines of Substance, Benton City, WA)
- Style: layered and deep — "blackberry, currant, pencil lead, cedar" (Charles Smith)
Charles Smith's Everyday Masterpiece
Charles Smith built Wines of Substance on a radical idea: serious Washington wine without the ceremony — hence the minimalist black-and-white "Cs" label. The Cabernet is the flagship: 100% whole-berry fermentation and native yeast give it depth and texture, while Columbia Valley's desert climate delivers the ripe black fruit. In Smith's own words: "Blackberry, currant, pencil lead, cedar. Layered and deep." It has collected 90+ point scores across recent vintages, and it remains one of the best values in American Cabernet. Discover more Cabernet Sauvignon or the Substance wines at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Per the winemaker: blackberry and currant at the core, graphite and pencil lead minerality, cedar and spice from barrel aging; layered and deep through the mid-palate; firm, savory tannins on the finish.
How to Enjoy
Decant 20–30 minutes. Pair with grilled burgers, lamb chops, or a hearty beef stew. Serve at 60–65°F.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Cs" stand for?
Cabernet Sauvignon — the wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the label abbreviates it to "Cs" in the brand's minimalist style.
Where is Substance Cs made?
Columbia Valley, Washington, by Charles Smith of K Vintners / Wines of Substance in Benton City, WA.
Is it filtered?
No — it is bottled unfiltered and unfined, preserving its texture and depth.
Washington Cabernet, priced like Tuesday night — order Substance 'Cs' Cabernet Sauvignon online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.