Pedroncelli Three Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California

2018 vintage – 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petite Verdot, 1% Malbec. Estate fruit harvested from the northern reaches of Dry Creek Valley, where these Bordeaux varietals excel. The varietals develop exceptional character on the vineyard sites, receiving the right amount of sun and cooling fog which develops optimal flavors in the grapes. Grapes are de-stemmed, fully crushed, and cold soaked for 48 hours. The must is inoculated with the Bordeaux yeast strain and fermented/macerated in stainless steel tanks. The fermenting juice is pumped over the cap daily for extraction of color, tannins and flavor until dry. Once pressed it is stored until barreled in the winter. 65% of the Cabernet Sauvignon was aged in American oak barrels for 16 months in order to develop smoothness and complexity. An additional 30% was aged in new French oak to provide a subtle backbone of vanilla and toasted oak highlights. Tasting notes: Aromas of dark ripe berries, dried herbs and earthy notes introduce this medium bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. Round tannins are framed by cherry, plum and blackberry fruit followed by highlights of oregano and mocha. Great structure and good acidity combine with a lingering, spicy finish. Enjoy upon release or cellar up to ten more years.