Winemaker Notes
The 2021 Prescription Vineyard Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon pours a deep garnet color with inviting aromas of black currant, ripe blackberry, and a hint of cedar. On the palate, it reveals rich flavors of dark plum, cassis, and a touch of dark chocolate, balanced by notes of toasted oak and espresso. The mouthfeel is velvety and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins that provide structure and a smooth texture. A lively acidity adds balance, leading to a long, elegant finish with lingering fruit and spice.
The 2021 Prescription Vineyard Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with grilled ribeye, roasted lamb, braised short ribs, and herb- crusted pork tenderloin. It also complements rich mushroom dishes, hearty pastas, and aged cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese. For a sweeter pairing, try it with dark chocolate desserts or a flourless chocolate cake, making it a versatile choice for both savory meals and indulgent treats.
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
A moody, well-structured red with grainy tannins that possess a slight grip. Blackberry and black olive are seasoned with Italian herbs and balsamic while notes of black and blue fruit generously fill out the palate, setting a dynamic tone.
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.