Winemaker Notes
These estate vineyards produce classic Cabernet Sauvignon, full of intense and bold flavors, along with lifted, nuanced aromatics. Tannic, structured and intense, this is a Cabernets lovers’ wine from start to finish. A deep ruby hued spectrum draws you in to a wine that obviously punches above its weight. Sense of place aromatics, and perfect varietal characteristics deliver the goods through Adelaida Dust, and Willow Creek spice. The wine opens with vibrant black fruit scents that are carried on a wave of exotic and intense, incense, scents. Never lacking for concentration and power, the flavors ride a rollercoaster of plum, cherry, and single origin chocolate, which are accented by graphite, exotic spices, cedar and oak barrel spice. A taut and firm wine whose tannins are masterfully integrated.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
The nose is delicate and perfumed, with notes of blackcurrants, raspberry compote and sweet spices. The palate is full-bodied with firm tannins and bright acidity, showing wild blackberries, river stone and dried thyme. Very fresh and balanced. Drink or hold.
As Paso Robles, California has soared in number of wineries and gained in popularity, Cabernet Sauvignon has firmly taken root as the region’s number one varietal. Alone, it accounts for just over 40% of plantings and is grown throughout both the western and eastern sides of the appellation. Though viticulture here dates back to the 18th century, Cabernet Sauvignon didn’t emerge as a significant grape here until the 1970’s. But since then it has definitely made up for lost time.
Legendary winemaker and consultant Andre Tchelistcheff first recognized Paso’s potential with Cabernet Sauvignon in the early 1960’s. The calcareous soil and dramatic diurnal temperature changes of Paso’s westside particularly intrigued him. Today modern winemaking techniques and focused experimentation with various clones, rootstocks and vineyard strategies optimize the region's ideal combination of soil and climate to deliver the best fruit possible.
The results are evident in the glass. Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon can be mesmerizing, with rich aromas and flavors of blackberry, cassis, black cherry, graphite, toasty oak, vanilla and spice. The structure, balance and unbridled opulence of these wines impress from first sip to last. Not surprisingly, Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignons have steadily grown in reputation, not just in the U.S., but around the world.