Vintner's Reserve Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Aromas of lush, bright black cherry, blackberry and cassis draw you in. Round, rich seamless tannins provide a robust backbone and supple mid-palate. Notes of cedar, vanilla and a hint of mocha linger on the finish.
Acclaim
2018 Vintage
90 points, Editors' Choice, Wine Enthusiast, Apr 2021
2017 Vintage
90 points, Erin Brooks, Robert Parker Wine Advocate, Dec 2019
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Vintner's Reserve is a blend of 92.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec, 1.5% Petit Verdot and 1% Merlot, aged 12 months in 65% French and 35% American oak (14% new overall). Deep ruby-purple, it opens with cassis, grilled black plum, blueberries, vanilla bean and pie spices with red fruit sparks. Medium to full-bodied, it offers great flavor intensity, a grainy frame and juicy acidity to lift the long finish. This is approachable right out of the gate and great value.
Winemaking
Aged 11 months in French (65%) oak barrels, American (30%) oak barrels, and stainless steel. 96% Sonoma County, 4% Mendocino County,
Artisan winemaking techniques, such as cold soaking and extending maceration were used to enhance and simultaneously soften the tannins, deepen the color and intensify the flavors.
Vineyards
Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are blended with Merlot for softness, Cabernet Franc for tannins, and Petit Verdot to enhance the mouthfeel, Malbec for roundness. Sonoma County mountain and hillside vineyards add black cherry flavors and superb wine structure. Mendocino County mountain vineyards impart blackberry and mocha flavors.
