And while a bottle of Alexander Valley Silver Oak will run $100..
this incredible Cabernet is an absolute steal for less than half.
Their prior vintage scored 95 Points and Double Gold.
Vineyard
The fruit for this wine was harvested from a 1.5 acre vineyard parcel with a SSW facing slope 450 feet above the Russian River. Planted in 1998 in challenging terrain with great soil for Cabernet, the vineyard faces many challenges during the growing season. This block requires a specially designed fertilizing, irrigating, and leaf-pulling regimen to keep the vines in optimal health for growing perfect Cabernet.
Vintage
The 2019 vintage was a leisurely growing season with a late summer start. This seasonal change allowed for longer standing times, even ripening and fuller fruit while preserving natural acidity. Harvest started about a week later than average compared to prior vintages. Mild growing conditions led to a very long season, with fruit picking lasting well into October. This extended season allowed for picking each block of grapes at the ideal level of maturity, producing balanced, flavors with complexity and nuance.
Winemaking
100% Estate Grown and comprised of mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon, with small additions of Petit Verdot, Syrah and Merlot. Hand-picked and sorted, the grapes were crushed and gently destemmed to tank for a 5-day cold soak and 22-day ferment with punchdowns 3 times daily descending as fermentation progressed. The final blend was transferred to French oak barrels in early December for a 24-month aging process. The impact of new and neutral French oak on the 2019 Cabernet provides an elegant and complex tannin structure suitable for aging over 10-15 years.
APPELLATION: Alexander Valley
VINEYARDS: Estate-Grown - Hillside Fruit
VARIETAL: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 2% Syrah and 2% Merlot
AGING: Aged for 24 months in new and neutral French Oak.
ALCOHOL: 14.3% by volume
All Wines
Luxurious & Delicious...
Aromas of rich cherry, black currant, dark plums, with hints of lightly toasted vanilla, mint and crushed slate. The concentrated flavors further integrate with blackberries, tobacco, anise and earthiness with a balanced oak profile, layered palette, leaving you with its delightful finish.
92 Points
Aromas and robust flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, mocha, espresso and hints of black pepper. Incredibly balanced with a smooth mouthfeel and body against a backdrop of structured tannins. The wine unfolds with notes of clove and dried herbs, ending with a long rich finish.
Rich & Luxurious!
Beautiful ruby color and opens with aromas of bright red plum and raspberry, cassis, and a touch of mint. The tannins are soft yet structured, and complemented by vibrant acidity, with hints of clove and baking spice from the oak aging. The wine ends with a long, smooth finish and lingering intensity encouraging you to enjoy another juicy sip.