Winemaker Notes

The 1998 season began with a cool late spring, which delayed flowering and set the stage for a harvest that was three to four weeks later than normal. Cool weather in early September added to our worries, but sunny skies in October were enough to fully ripen all but the very latest vineyards of Cabernet. Merlot and Cabernet Franc, which ripen a week to two weeks earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon, were especially successful in contributing ripe flavors to the blend.

This wine displays aromas of cedar, ripe currents, spice, and leather with a soft, silky finish and a lingering aftertaste. It is crafted to be enjoyable to drink as a young wine and will continue to improve in the bottle. Try it with bold flavored pastas or Sonoma duck or lamb.

Dynamite Vineyards

Dynamite Vineyards

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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.

GLO7228525_1998 Item# 10689