Rodney Strong Alexander's Crown Cabernet Sauvignon 1996

The 1996 Alexanders Crown is a powerful wine emanating first from a beautiful bouquet of blueberry, currant, orange blossom and sweet fig. Coffee and earthen aromas mingle with a touch of brown sugar inviting a taste. The aromas are proportionate to the lush mouth feel, full of cherry and dark plum flavors and a slight touch of oregano. Oak aging in the finest French and American oak barrels imparts subtle chestnut and cedar notes. While a small percentage of Merlot in the blend has helped to highlight the sweetness of fruit, the Cabernet of this vintage has provided great structure and a long, silken finish.

A very special meal prepared around the 1996 Alexanders Crown might include a beef tenderloin with wild mushroom sauce or a roast leg of lamb. - Richard B. Sayre, Winemaker