Winemaker Notes
The Dry Creek Valley is an undiscovered gem, producing some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon in California. Primarily known for Zinfandel, the valley has almost as much Cabernet Sauvignon planted. This lush and elegant Cabernet Sauvignon initially displays aromas of plum, blackberry and cranberry, followed by bay leaf, sage and white pepper. A first taste of the full-bodied wine reveals flavors of black currant and black cherry. Hints of herbes de Provence, mocha and fine leather bolster its richness, while firm tannins provide structure. The plush palate and well-rounded mouthfeel make this Cabernet approachable in its youth while also perfect for aging.
Blend: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 4% Merlot
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Lots of mint and creme de cassis in the aromas and flavors of this full-bodied, velvety-textured wine. It’s structured, layered and generously tannic, offering blackcurrants, chocolate and cherries with hints of cedar and tobacco leaves.
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Wine Enthusiast
There’s a charming freshness to the nose of this Cabernet that displays aromas of black cherry and herbal mélange. The palate displays ample tannin for aging, but also conveys plenty of lightness as well as flavors of rich plum jam, cocoa powder and graphite.
Established in 1972, Dry Creek Vineyard is Dry Creek Valley’s flagship winery located in the heart of Sonoma County, California. As the region’s first new winery following Prohibition, founder David Stare paved the way for a viticultural rebirth in this vibrant winegrowing appellation. Among other industry benchmarks, Dry Creek Vineyard is recognized as the first winery to plant Sauvignon Blanc in the Dry Creek Valley, and was also the first to use the term “Meritage” with the 1985 vintage.
This premier, family-owned winery is now led by the second generation. Dave’s daughter, Kim Stare Wallace, serves as President overseeing a successful family winemaking and grape growing business that includes 185 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards. The second generation is dedicated to all aspects of the business, from vine to shelf, with a goal to remain one of the last truly private, family-owned, iconic wineries consistently producing 90+ point wines.
Dry Creek Vineyard is firmly committed to a “No Compromises” philosophy, producing appellation-focused, terroir-driven, varietal-defining wines, including Heritage Vines Zinfandel, which was selected as a Wine Spectator “Top 100” Wine of 2019. Named one of the Top 100 wineries of 2015 by Wine & Spirits Magazine and a Top 10 Tasting Room by USA TODAY, the winery is also 100% Certified Sustainable. Dry Creek Vineyard proudly produces delicious Dry Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Meritage blends as well as a portfolio of single vineyard selections.
A noble variety bestowed with both power and concentration, Cabernet Sauvignon enjoys success all over the globe, its best examples showing potential to age beautifully for decades. Cabernet Sauvignon flourishes in Bordeaux's Medoc where it is often blended with Merlot and smaller amounts of some combination of Cabernet Franc, Malbecand Petit Verdot. In the Napa Valley, ‘Cab’ is responsible for some of the world’s most prestigious, age-worthy and sought-after “cult” wines. Somm Secret—DNA profiling in 1997 revealed that Cabernet Sauvignon was born from a spontaneous crossing of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in 17th century southwest France.
A multifaceted and highly reputable sub-region of Sonoma, Dry Creek Valley is responsible for a wide range of wine styles—both red and white. One of the smallest AVAs in California, Dry Creek Valley has a winning combination of ideal geography and climate. Fertile, well-drained soils create concentrated varietal character while long, warm days, bookended by cool nights, allow grapes to reach full phenolic ripeness and balance. The warm and welcoming appellation is home to a number of family-owned vineyards and wineries that place a strong emphasis on sustainable farming practices.
Zinfandel reigns supreme here and still produces in a great number of very old vineyards—often 100 years old or older. These old vines create a powerful, voluptuous and sultry wine unlike those of any other region. Sauvignon Blanc, the valley’s signature white grape, also performs exceptionally well. Many other varieties grow comfortably here, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah. Petite Sirah is often found in blends with Zinfandel.