Winemaker Notes
The entire vintage was allowed to progress in small tanks through a native yeast fermentation with a cap management regime that extracted layers of flavor, concentrated texture and nuance that found its way to barrel ... and ultimately to the bottle and glass. Aged in 65% new French oak for 21 months, and blended with additional Bordeaux varietals that frame and enhance the Cabernet, the wine boasts perfumed aromas of black currants, blackberry jam, with hints of lavender, mocha and star anise. The rich and expansive texture, bolstered by the ripe, velvety tannins, creates a lush mouthfeel and indicates cellar worthiness.
Professional Ratings
Perhaps no other winery captures the casual luxury of Sonoma County better than Chalk Hill Estate. Founded nearly four decades ago, this spectacular 1300-acre property features 300 acres of vineyards, wilderness areas, winery, hospitality center, culinary garden, residence, stables, equestrian pavilion, sports fields, fishing and swimming ponds, and guest houses.
The winery's vineyards are thoughtfully woven through the native foliage and contoured to fit the intricate terrain. More than two-thirds of the Chalk Hill Estate remains uncultivated. The higher elevations offer stunning views of the Russian River Valley to the west and the Mayacamas Mountains to the east.
While Sonoma County is acclaimed—and rightfully so—for its Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Zinfandels, it also produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Of the region’s 18 American Viticultural Areas, only a handful produce top-notch Cabernet Sauvignon. These appellations include Alexander Valley, Knights Valley, Sonoma Valley and Dry Creek Valley. Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignons made in these appellations can offer a complex array of aromas and flavors. Fruit notes such as blackberry, blackcurrant, cassis, black cherry and raspberry often are accompanied by hints of graphite, dusty earth, cigar box, toast and vanilla. The varietal has a rich history in Sonoma, and some of these Cabernet Sauvignons and Cabernet-based blends rival the best from Napa Valley.