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
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96 Points
Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
94 Points
Juice explodes right out of the glass with its dark purple in color and bursting aromas of black cherry jam, boysenberry, raspberry and wild cherry interlaced with hints of baking spice, espresso bean, and toasted nut. The palate is ripe and juicy with flavors of dark cherry, huckleberry and raspberry perfectly integrated with notes of spice, dark chocolate, and a kiss of toasty oak.
