Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine & Spirits
Patrick Campbell sold Laurel Glen to Bettina Sichel after the 2010 vintage. Sichel brought on winemaker Randall Watkins to manage the cellar, and viticulturist Phil Coturri Phil Coturri to introduce organic farming practices to the estate’s sunny plateau on the volcanic eastern flank of Sonoma Mountain. Their first season, 2011, was cool and late—they finished harvest on November 1, and yields on the property averaged around 2 tons per acre. In blending Counterpoint, Watkins selected lots with comparatively soft tannins and fresh, approachable fruit. While this may be a "second wine," it’s in beautiful form in 2011. The cool year comes through as a green edge that feels fresh, the scent of the wine suggesting California hillsides—bay, madrone and redwood. There’s mouthwatering firmness to the tannins, the wine’s structure carrying a mineral sparkle while a beam of black currant shines through the middle, growing brighter with a day or two of air. This is a dynamic and expressive California cabernet. Given the wine's humble price tag and aging potential, laying down a case seems like a great idea. (1,482 cases)
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.