This is a unique and exotic expression of Alexander Valley benchland Cabernet Sauvignon. It was aged in small French oak cooperage for about thirty months, with infrequent racking. Bottled without fining or filtration to respect the expression of the site, this 100% varietal wine enjoys both a youthful suppleness and the structure necessary for lengthy storage.

Those of you who have had our Cabernet with 8-plus years of age understand the reward that comes with patience and classically balanced wine. There is an appealing generosity to the primary flavors of this wine, but its balance and structure promise a very graceful evolution and long life (I wish we could do that for ourselves). It reminds me most of our 2002 Scherrer Vineyard Cabernet at a similar stage, except that this might have slightly more going for it on all fronts: There’s a nice definition and intensity of fruit – the plummy/cassis/violet-floral/fresh loam/ thing on the nose, while it’s juicy, finely woven acidity and tannin support these in the mouth all the way thru its very long, graceful finish. There is a hint of red fruit that lingers on the palate a good minute. As impressive as it is today, many of us know what another 5-10+ years will do for wines like this. 180 cases produced.

Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
Bright purple. Perfumed, complex nose displays red- and blackcurrant, pipe tobacco, mocha and licorice. Broad, sweet and perfumed, with suave spicy lift and energy to the flavors of blueberry, licorice and bitter chocolate. Finishes with very good precision and alluring sweetness, leaving a spicy note behind. 91 points. Josh Raynolds May 2012