Doubleback

Doubleback sits within Washington wine through a Walla Walla story: Drew Bledsoe returned to his hometown after retiring from the NFL in 2007, and the project centers on fine Cabernet Sauvignon. Its wines are offered in limited releases to list members, with Bledsoe and winemaker Josh McDaniels shaping the label’s Walla Walla Valley identity.

Walla Walla Cabernet with estate-vineyard intent

The useful way to read Doubleback is through its Walla Walla origin and Cabernet focus. Bledsoe’s return after the NFL explains the name, while McDaniels is central to the winemaking direction. The 2023 vintage statement points to attention across the estate vineyards and to effort in each bottle.

The 2018 Estate Reserve gives a clear technical signal: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Malbec, aged for 23 months in a mix of new French and Italian oak barrels. Doubleback’s wines are aged in French and Italian oak barrels, with the oak used to add structure and depth without overpowering the fruit. The 2021 Estate Reserve Red Wine has also been noted for continuing to evolve and impress after a later retasting.

Limited releases and recognition

Doubleback’s wines are offered on an allocated basis in limited releases exclusively to list members. Since its first release, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, the label has received numerous accolades, including a spot on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list.

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