Winemaker Notes
The bouquet of this wine has gobs of dark berry and cherry fruit, a touch of cocoa and a hint of spice from the right combination of American to French oak barrel aging. Once on the palate, the potential of this vintage is expressed with firm texture and a broad mouth feel. There are forward flavors of blueberry and blackberry, while tea and dark chocolate linger in the finish.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
The winery's reserve Cab has been variable over the years, but this '02 is really a very good wine that will reward cellaring. It's luscious now, but such are the tannins, the dry balance, and the freshness of the blackberry flavors, that time in the bottle is bound to reward. Should open by the end of 2007, and drink well for the next five years. Cellar Selection.
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.