Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A similar situation exists with the Cabernet Sauvignons. They are all 100% Cabernet Sauvignons made in 200-case lots, with the exception of the Monument Ridge, and all are aged 18 months in French oak of which 70% is new. There are just too many similarities between them even though they come from various elevations (ranging from 500 feet to as high as 2,400 feet). All the Cabernets are dense, tannic and full-bodied with impressive levels of richness, minerality and blue and black fruits. My favorites include the Christopher’s, Bear Point, Rockfall, and Cougar Ridge. Interestingly, the Monument Ridge and Monolith tasted more tannic, closed and difficult to evaluate. These are big, concentrated Cabernet Sauvignons and even though some of the vineyards are separated by as much as five miles, there is an overall similarity that comes from this Alexander Mountain Estate despite the various elevations and expositions. Perhaps 15-25 years of aging will confirm Jess Jackson’s belief that they are different. That being said, they are all high quality, promising Cabernets that should still be drinking well in 25-30 years. Rating: 92+
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.