There is no doubt that when it comes to high-end red wine in California, Cabernet is king. Part of this is probably due the fact that Cabernet does well with warm weather, and can grow in a variety of different soils and climates. While Napa has good Cabernet vineyards all over, in Sonoma Cab is mostly found in Sonoma Valley, Dry Creek, and Alexander Valley. Each of these regions brings something unique to the table, Dry Creek Cabs really shine when the vines are planted on the hills above the valley. Today’s offering from Owl Ridge fits the bill, from the Passalacqua Vineyard planted 400 feet above the valley floor.
The 2006 Owl Ridge Passalacqua Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is garnet in color, showing just a hint of its 7 years of age at the rim. The nose is pure Cabernet, with tobacco and leather taking the lead, along with cassis, plum and cedar. The palate shows more youth than the nose, with black berry, cigar box, damp earth, and a spicy finish. Medium bodied with moderate acidity, this is a well-balanced Cab that will pair with a wider range of food than Cabernet made in a bigger, riper style. It’s drinking beautifully now and should be consumed over the next year or two. At a price that is basically unheard of well-made, hand-crafted Cabernet in California, this is one to stock up on for near-term enjoyment.
Winemaker: Joseph C. Otos
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, T.R. Passalacqua Vineyard
Barrel Aging: 100% French Oak, 35% new.
AVA: Dry Creek Valley
97 Points
Aromas of blackberries, graphite, and crushed rock, along with cedar, tobacco leaf, cassis, and a medley of dry herbs and spice.
A substantial mouthfeel, full-bodied structure, firm tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit. Well-balanced acidity collaborate harmoniously to accentuate the intricate flavors of berry compote, spices, and oak nuances reminiscent of mocha.
94 Points
Aromas of candied apple, lemon peel, and toasted marcona almond. The palate is rich yet finely balanced, offering a creamy texture lifted by bright acidity. Delicate and composed, it finishes with a gentle mineral snap and lingering citrus.
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.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
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.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
96 Point Vintage
Entices with aromas of Bing cherry, raspberry, and cedar spice. Indicative of the cool vintage, the wine carries a freshness throughout. The palate offers a harmonious balance between bright red fruit, spice, and nicely woven tannins.
93 Points
A beautiful garnet color in the glass. Aromas of pomegranate, vibrant cranberry, candied strawberry, gravel, and rose perfume lead to a palate of cinnamon, clove, tea leaf, bing cherry, a touch of earth, and an opulent, fleshy texture.
97 Points
Rich dark fruit flavors of blackberry and cherry with notes of baking spices, licorice, coffee, and chocolate that interlace seamlessly with complexity, creating a wine that is both structured and delightfully supple, achieving an ideal balance of tension and grace. Artfully composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon with 17% Cabernet Franc, resulting in harmonious depth and freshness.
