2009 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
The aroma of our Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon is very fruit driven, with a nice combination of blackberry, red currant, and a background of dark chocolate and cocoa. A hint of brightness in the fruit aromas, together with the classic Cabernet depth, signals this wine's Sonoma County roots. On the palate, dark chocolate-covered cherry flavors meet hints of mocha, and the dark fruit profile carries all the way through the lively mid-palate. The mouthfeel is soft and silky, with mouthfilling, velvety tannins that give the wine finesse and marry well with the wine's light acidity. In addition, the mixture of French and American oak aging lends light touches of vanilla and cinnamon to this wine's background complexity. This wine's focused fruit profile and depth, finishing with a long raspberry note, makes this wine stand out as a classic Sonoma County Cabernet.
THE WINEMAKING
The Sonoma County sub-appellations that make up this wine add depth and complexity to the final blend. The elegant, mouthfilling tannins stem from Dry Creek Valley and its well-drained, gravelly soils, whereas the soft, dark chocolate flavors and richness come from Alexander Valley Merlot, classically blended with Cabernet Sauvignon in small quantities. Additionally, a portion of this blend comes from undisclosed vineyards—typically high-end, cult vineyards that make up the backbone of Sonoma's best-known, prestige bottlings.
FOOD PAIRING
Serve Sivas-Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon with short ribs and truffled mashed potatoes to further bring out this wine's berry flavors. Blue cheese and figs would also pair well, as would a braised lamb shank over a bed of orzo.
