Winemaker Notes
The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon fruit was harvested in late September, after a long, cool growing season, which produced very flavorful grapes. Following fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine was aged in newer French oak barrels for two years. The resulting wine is wonderfully complex with powerful berry, spice and earth flavors. Delicious now, this Cabernet will continue to develop and improve with further bottle aging.
Since its founding in 1970, Kenwood Vineyards has been committed to producing varietal wines of excellence which reflect Sonoma County's finest vineyards in character and style. Nestled in the western hills of the Sonoma Valley, Jack London Vineyard is one of these vineyards - an extraordinary place, graced with beauty, touched by history and endowed with a unique environment for growing grapes. Kenwood Vineyards has been producing bottlings exclusively from Jack London Vineyard for more than 25 years, each one an expression of singular vineyard character.
Professional Ratings
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.