Winemaker Notes
Cherryblock vineyards surround the Sebastiani Sonoma Valley winery. Formerly a cherry orchard, the land has proven ideal for late-harvesting Cabernet Sauvignon. Moderate yields from the nine acres of old vines (about forty years old) of small, red-blue berries result in concentrated, opulent wines.The 1998 harvest was the coolest of the 1990's pushing Cherryblock to ripen by early November producing characteristics not typical of Cherryblock terroir.
Dark garnet color, ripe cherry, herbal-tea and earthy, truffle aromas, medium body and lower alcohol are all reflections of the cooler growing period. The wine is more elegant than vintages past.
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.