Alexander Valley is the source for the Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, where the grapes are grown at high elevations on sloped hillsides with good drainage. This naturally puts an element of stress on the vines which creates small clusters, small berries and intensified flavors. The grapes were hand-sorted and underwent a five-day cold soak prior to fermentation to extract optimal color and flavor. After a long and slow fermentation, the wine was allowed to remain on its skins for an additional eight days to build structure and integrate tannins. The wine is then aged in 100% French oak barrels, where it underwent malolactic fermentation, followed by 20 months of aging.
This is a rich Cabernet with deep, layered aromas and concentrated flavors of dark cherry, plum, cocoa bean and dried sage. Firmly structured with dusty tannins and a long, lingering finish.