Winemaker Notes
A deep garnet with amethyst reflections in the glass. Aromas of dark berries, ripe raspberry and flint follow through to the balanced palate. Bright acidity is supported by the addition of Petit Verdot, adding great roundness. Silky tannins extend on the persistent finish.
Blend: 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
This shows notes of ripe dark cherries, blackcurrants, walnuts, graphite and hints of tobacco. Medium- to full-bodied with polished, nicely crafted tannins and a velvety texture. Seamless and lingering.
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Tasting Panel
This approachable Cabernet sourced from two Alexander Valley vineyards has a deep ruby color with aromas of rich black fruit-jam, cassis, and currant-mixed with hints of leather, warm cinnamon and clove, and subtle notes of bay leaf and black pepper. On the palate, the dark fruit mingles with notes of tobacco and chocolate, leading to a smooth and silky finish.
A noble variety bestowed with both power and concentration, Cabernet Sauvignon enjoys success all over the globe, its best examples showing potential to age beautifully for decades. Cabernet Sauvignon flourishes in Bordeaux's Medoc where it is often blended with Merlot and smaller amounts of some combination of Cabernet Franc, Malbecand Petit Verdot. In the Napa Valley, ‘Cab’ is responsible for some of the world’s most prestigious, age-worthy and sought-after “cult” wines. Somm Secret—DNA profiling in 1997 revealed that Cabernet Sauvignon was born from a spontaneous crossing of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in 17th century southwest France.
Nearly a northern extension of Napa Valley, Alexander Valley starts just north of the small, Knights Valley, and is just a few minutes drive from the Napa town of Calistoga. It is Sonoma County’s hottest AVA. But the Russian River, which runs through the valley, creates cooler pockets and its soft, alluvial soil is ideal for grape growing, especially Cabernet Sauvignon. In fact, some believe that Alexander Valley Cabernets truly rival the best from Napa Valley and many of the heavy-hitter producers have largely invested here.
In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes up over 50% of plantings, Merlot and old vine Zinfandel thrive here. Ample, fleshy Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominate white wine production. Some old-vine plantings of Grenache have also been discovered and more recent experiments with Sangiovese and Barbera show great promise.