Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Here is a big, bold wine that's comfortable in its own skin. It draws from a deep well of dark berries, well-integrated oak spices and accents of tobacco and singed herbs for great breadth and complexity. While full bodied and rather tannic, those tannins are silky and the wine feels relaxed as you sip. Best through 2030.
Cellar Selection -
James Suckling
Rich cassis, blackberries, sandalwood and chili chocolate on the nose followed by a smoothly rendered palate with juicy and supple fruit. Tight and fine-grained, with a lengthy, fruit-expressive finish. 58% cabernet sauvignon, 21% merlot, 16% cabernet franc, 3% petit verdot and 2% malbec.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
Nearly a northern extension of Napa Valley, Alexander Valley starts just north of the small, Knights Valley, and is just a few minutes drive from the Napa town of Calistoga. It is Sonoma County’s hottest AVA. But the Russian River, which runs through the valley, creates cooler pockets and its soft, alluvial soil is ideal for grape growing, especially Cabernet Sauvignon. In fact, some believe that Alexander Valley Cabernets truly rival the best from Napa Valley and many of the heavy-hitter producers have largely invested here.
In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes up over 50% of plantings, Merlot and old vine Zinfandel thrive here. Ample, fleshy Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominate white wine production. Some old-vine plantings of Grenache have also been discovered and more recent experiments with Sangiovese and Barbera show great promise.