Winemaker Notes
The deep, inky violet color gives the first hint of the mountain-derived intensity in the glass. Signature notes of Cabernet Sauvignon emerge in the aromas: plum, boysenberry, violet, cassis, cedar. Even more compelling are the undertones of cocoa, mandarin orange zest, jasmine blossom, sage, and other fresh herbs. The interplay of juicy acidity and fine-grained tannin characterizes the palate, one supporting the other as the wine unfolds seamlessly from entry to extended finish. Irresistible freshness and vibrancy suggest a degree of approachability unusual for such a wine in its youth, while the underlying structure leaves no doubt about the suitability for long-term cellaring.
Blend: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Aromas of pine needles and flowers with mint and dark fruit. Full-bodied with velvety tannins and creaminess. Medium-to full-bodied with savory flavors, such as mushrooms and dried citrus, and a juicy finish. Firm and nicely austere at the end. 87% cabernet sauvignon, 10% merlot and 3% cabernet franc.
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Vinous
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is aging beautifully. Dark, ample and potent, it rushes across the palate with black cherry, plum, chocolate, spice and incense. It is just starting to show the first signs of aromatic development yet retains gorgeous depth and fine balance. The 2014 captures all the linear energy of the year. It is a terrific wine for an estate that had just made a major push toward improving farming and winemaking at the time.
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.