2024-11-14 | By Tom A.
Region: Alexander Valley | Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon | ABV: 14.5% | Price: $30
Description
This Cabernet Sauvignon captivates with a deep ruby core, gradually transitioning to a garnet rim, revealing a wine that is both vibrant and elegant in its clarity. On the nose, it boasts an inviting bouquet of dark, ripe plums intermingled with a hint of cedar wood and whispers of vanilla. Additional notes of lush black cherry and a subtle touch of mint mingle, creating an enticing aromatic profile that invites exploration. The palate unfolds with a balance of refined acidity and velvety tannins that frame the lush fruit. It is neither overly sweet nor starkly dry; instead, it offers a beautifully rounded mouthfeel. The flavors echo the aroma with a pronounced dark berry essence accented by a trace of cocoa and spice. The finish lingers thoughtfully, leaving a velvety texture that invites another sip.
Notes & Pairing
This wine embodies the essence of Sonoma's terroir, showcasing its lineage through every sip. Hints of earthiness emerge with aeration, complementing its fruit-forward character.
Some pairing ideas would include savoring this alongside a herb-crusted lamb shank or a grilled portobello mushroom burger. The wine also pairs beautifully with a rich, aged cheddar, allowing the cheese's sharpness to dance off the Cabernet's fruit alongside roasted vegetables to create a vibrant dish that highlights its complexity.
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The 2021 Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon is bursting with flavors of lush blackberry, dark cherry, and hints of mocha, complemented by its firm structure and supple tannins. It pairs perfectly with a savory grilled steak, where the wine’s robust nature enhances the meat's umami richness, while its dark fruit notes add a delightful contrast to the charred flavors.
The firm tannins and full-bodied profile of the Cabernet Sauvignon create an excellent match for the protein and fat in grilled steak, softening the meat's richness. The wine's fruity acidity elevates the steak’s flavors, while subtle mocha and oak notes blend harmoniously with smoky grill marks, enhancing the overall complexity and making each bite and sip a dynamic experience.
"Alexander Valley is located in Sonoma County, California, known for its diverse microclimates and topography. It offers a range of styles and varietals, primarily focusing on premium red wine production."
Viticulture Area: Alexander Valley AVA
Famous for: Alexander Valley is recognized for its high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon and its rich, fruit-driven wines. The region features a warm climate, ideal for grape ripening, and a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture.
Varietals: No varietals available
Total Vineyards: 42
Preferred Terroir: Moderate to warm climates with well-drained gravel or sandy soils.
Major Regions: Bordeaux (France), Napa Valley (USA), Coonawarra (Australia), Stellenbosch (South Africa), Mendoza (Argentina)
Black fruit: Blackcurrant (High), Black cherry (High), Plum (Medium-high)
Herbaceous: Green bell pepper (Medium), Mint (Medium)
Oak: Vanilla (Medium-high), Cedar (Medium)
Spice: Black pepper (Medium)
Earth: Graphite (Medium), Forest floor (Medium-low)