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
Rich and full-bodied, packed with dark fruit flavors of blackberry, ripe plum, and dark cherry. Notes of cocoa, cedar, and warm spice add complexity, while firm tannins and a touch of volcanic minerality reflect the bold characteristics of Calistoga’s terroir. Full-bodied in texture, and remarkably velvety. The tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit.
92 Points
Deep floral notes (violets), blackberry, black cherry, and cassis. Driven by the mountain's steep, cool-climate terroir, it balances rich notes of blackberry and pomegranate seamlessly intertwined with dark plum, cocoa dust, and roasted mocha, hints of roasted mocha and spice undertones add depth to its complex profile, culminating in a bold, yet elegant finish.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
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