Winemaker Notes
The fruit for the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon comes primarily from mountain-grown fruit in Alexander Valley. Fog drifts over the tops of the coastal mountains and burns off quickly in the morning sunshine, resulting in a warm climate with almost full sun throughout the day – ideal conditions for Ferrari-Carano's Cabernet Sauvignon mountain vineyards.
This is a powerful wine with great finesse. It is a deep, glowing garnet color with a concentrated nose of dark chocolate, black tea and ripe, juicy blackberry and boysenberry fruit accompanied by toffee, caramel, and licorice flavors on the palate. With a delicious, concentrated fruit entry, ripe, showy tannins and a long finish, this wine will continue to improve with age.
The 2004 Ferrari-Carano Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with roasted, broiled or barbequed heavy game and red meats such as lamb, beef, pork and veal. Medium and strong-flavored cheeses such as blue cheese or sharp cheddar also pair nicely with this wine.
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.