Winemaker Notes
Individual, high-quality batches of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from steep hillside vineyards in Alexander Valley and an incredibly rocky site in Knights Valley form the core of this wine's character. Each batch was fermented separately in small lots. After racking off lees, the resultant wines from the vineyard selections were further selected on quality and style, to produce the final Reserve Cabernet blend. The blend was then matured a further 12 months in a combination of new and used American oak barrels to integrate both the vineyard and oak components. The wine has not been fined or final filtered.
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.