Description
2017 was a vintage of contrasts. Our ample rainfall in January and February allayed any talk of drought, but winter rains were followed by a warm spring and many heat spikes through-out the summer until we began picking the first lot on September 7. After harvest each lot was de-stemmed, fermented separately, then aged in 25% new American and French oak barrels for 14 months.
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic Alexander Valley wine with medium body, great fruit flavors and smooth, structured tannins. Winemaker Kevin Hall added 12% Merlot for structure, a touch of Cabernet Franc for floral notes and Malbec and Petit Verdot for color.
This is an elegant wine with aromas of black cherry, cassis, plum, vanilla, oak and a hint of chocolate. In the glass there are lush flavors of cherry, cassis, blackberry and chocolate. The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon evolves with each sip. This is a graceful wine with great balance and a long, lingering finish. Enjoyable upon release, this wine will reward those with the patience to lay down a few bottles.
90 Points The Wine Advocate