Gold Medal - 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Competition
Polished with a very modern feel - think rich, concentrated, intense, deep and very long, with tons of sexy black fruit, and just the right touch of French oak. Drinks great now, and will easily go for a decade or more in your cellar.
Pair with rich cuisine including blue cheeses, grilled pork chops, beef bourguignon, dry aged ribeye, or braised lamb shank.
VINTAGE
This outstanding Reserve blend consists of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot all from the beautiful Cassata Vineyards Estate in Sonoma Valley.
VINEYARD
Cassata Vineyards is located in beautiful Glen Ellen, California. This area is known for its outstanding growing soils and climate. The vineyard was re-established along the gentle rolling hills. In the center of the property, a pond has been incorporated to act as a beautiful oasis for local wildlife. The pond also provides a much needed water resource. The entire property is managed bio dynamically so that future generations can enjoy a pure and simple refuge in this isolated valley.
Winemaker: Michael Muscardini
Appellation: Sonoma Valley, Sonoma County
Vineyard: Cassata Vineyards
Varietals: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot
Harvested: September 28, 2017
Bottled: June 9, 2021
Alcohol: 14.4%
Cases Produced: 360
95 Points
Aromas of wild berries, black fig and ripe dark fruits are intertwined with hints of fresh mountain herbs, mineral, leather, savory spices, and cigar box. On the palate, the rich fruit flavors of dark cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, red currants and cassis are layered with notes of wild sage, dark chocolate truffle, cinnamon, clove, and a kiss of oak.
94 Points
Opens with an aromatic burst of black cherry jam, wild huckleberry, and a hint of crushed espresso bean. On the palate, the fruit is lush and primary, but it's the secondary notes—toasted nutmeg, dark chocolate truffle, and the signature 'Dry Creek Dust'—that provide a long, savory finish.