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
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.
91 Points
Shimmering ruby-purple hue. The nose is a walk through a damp Sonoma forest—mossy bark and wild earth—brightened by high-toned notes of cranberry sauce and blood orange. On the palate, it's generously long in the mouth, with good concentration. It's a masterclass in tension: intense, cherry and red current fruit meets dark spice and fine, sandy tannins.
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.
