Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Reserve comes from K-J’s holdings in Sonoma, primarily Knights Valley. Composed of 94.9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4.4% Petit Verdot and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc, aged primarily in French oak although some American oak is utilized, this is a powerful, rich, concentrated and convincing effort for a 2011. Deep cassis flavors intermixed with cedarwood, vanillin, spice box and licorice emerge from this medium to full-bodied, ripe, attractive 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.