Are you looking for a duo of California Cabernets, though from different producers, parts, and vineyards, united by one thing? And is that thing you desire…SMOOTHNESS?
Well you’ve come to the right blog.
Now, don’t take smooth like these wines are devoid of edge or interest. They just aren’t going to clobber you over the head with pumped-up brawn and muscle-flexing.
So what are the wines? I’m glad you asked. And BTW, both were sent to me as samples.
The first is the 2010 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon ($53). Perhaps you remember Jordan from my epic podcast, vineyard tour, and cheese eating extravaganza? Check it out! AGAIN!
Anyway, there is many a thing to love about this Cabernet from Sonoma’s Alexander Valley. The Jordan is elegant right out of the gate; no need to sit on it for a decade. BUT IF YOU DO, it will be awesome, like the 2003 I had at the winery. Just make sure you give the 2010 plenty of time in the decanter and it will awaken in your glass.
Ok, would I want to hold onto it for ten years and then give you a full report? Sure! But that would mean sending Jordan an e-mail where I tell them this: “Good news! I have scheduled a post regarding the 2010 Cabernet to be published…IN 2024!”
Trust me, it’s a wine with a pedigree and a track record. Buy a case and drink one every year. If you do that and tell me, you can write a guest post on the development of it from 2015-2026. Or I’ll just call you on the phone and we can record a segment for my podcast. Seriously.
And if we’re talking about longevity, how can we not mention Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars? This Napa icon was established in 1970 and is still going strong. Case in point being the 2011 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Artemis ($55). This Napa Valley Cabernet, like the Jordan, can please the impatient as well as reward those with long-term impulse control. And it’s very expressive for such a youthful wine. (Translation: Smells real good right away.)
Also, Artemis is the Greek Goddess of the Hunt, which is cool. (Also of the Forest, Hills, Moon, and Archery. What a show-off.)
So when it comes to California Cabernet, do not be swayed by preconceived notions. Let your taste be like that of a Greek God or Goddess: inquisitive, with a healthy skepticism, and BEHOLDEN TO NO ONE! (This is how I imaging Greek mythological figures act.)
Note: Both prices taken from the winery website.
Stacked stones by a.pitch from Flickr.
