Alexander Valley Cabernet 2018 is a tuly remarkable vintage for the region. With warm days, cool nights and a steady supply of moisture throughout the growing season, the grapes ripened slowly, allowing them to develop wonderful flavors and aromas.
Cabernet from Alexander Valley has long been kown for its complexity, structure and intense aromas. The 2018 vintage is no exception. It has beautiful dark fruit aromas of blackberry, currant and plum that mingle with hints of cedar and earth. On the palate it is full-bodied with silky tannins that provide a nice balance to the juicy fruit flavors that are highlighted by subtle notes of toasted oak and sweet vanilla. Its long finish lingers on the palate making it enjoyable to sip on its own or enjoy with food.
The combination of climate and soil conditions in Alexander Valley create an ideal environment for Cabernet Sauvignon to thrive. The alluvial soils impart a rich chocolate note that pairs beautifully with the bold fruit flavors of this varietal. This allws winemakers in Alexander Valley to craft wines that are truly distinctive while still capturing the classic characteristics we have come to expect from this well-known appellation.
Alexander Valley Cabernet 2018 is sure to be one of thse wines you will want to keep an eye out for in coming years as it ages gracefully and continues to showcase the unique terroir of this beloved wine region in California.
Alexander Valley's Notable Wines
Alexander Valley is renowned for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot wines. The area's alluvial soils provide a distinctive chocolaty character to the Cabernet, which is often described as robust and full-bodied. The region's Mediterranean climate also allows for long growing seasons in which the grapes can develop complexity and depth of flavor. In addition to these two varietals, Alexander Valley's terroir is also suitable for growing varieties such as Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Petite Sirah.
Source: lakesonomawinery.com
Is Alexander Valley Part of Napa Valley?
No, Alexander Valley is not part of Napa. Alexander Valley is an American Viticultural Area (AVA) located in Sonoma County, just north of the Mayacamas Mountains and east of the Russian River. It is bordered on the west by Chalk Hill AVA and on the east by the Dry Creek Valley AVA. The climate in Alexander Valley is significantly cooler than in Napa Valley due to its higher elevation and coastal influence, allowing for longer grape-ripening season that helps to create bold wines with great complexity.
Exploring Wines From Alexander Valley
Alexander Valley is renowned for its lush, rolling hills and warm climate, perfect for the production of some of the finest Bordeaux-style wines in the world. The five classic varietals grown in this region are Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. These varietals are grown to create a broad range of styles including robust reds with full tannins and black fruit flavors as well as lighter rosés and whites with crisp acidity and mineral notes. Alexander Valley wines often show unique characteristics – deep color, intense aromas of cassis and spice, ripe berry flavors and exceptional structure. Additionally, the region's vineyards are well known for producing some of California's finest Zinfandel wines. All these wines offer excellent value for money and can be found in many countries arund the world.
Does Unopened Cabernet Go Bad?
Yes, Cabernet can go bad if left unopened. Generally, an unopened bottle of Cabernet will last for up to five years after the printed expiration date, depending on how it has been stored. Factors such as the ambient temperature, humidity and exposure to light can all affect the life of an unopened bottle of Cabernet. Temperature is especially important; storing a bottle at a consistent temperature beow 55°F (13°C) will help preserve its freshness for longer. If you notice any signs of spoilage such as a change in colour or smell, it is best to discard the bottle.
Can You Drink 10-Year-Old Cabernet Sauvignon?
Yes, you can drink 10 year old Cabernet Sauvignon. This type of wine is renowned for its ability to age gracefully, and when aged for 10 years it will have developed complex flavors and aromas such as blackberry jam, tobacco, cedar, and leather. As the tannins have softened over time, aged Cabernet Sauvignon will be smooth and full-bodied on the palate with a long finish. That said, some people may find the flavors too intense or too muted depending on teir personal preference. Ultimately, it comes down to individual taste and experimentation.
Location of Alexander Valley: Napa or Sonoma?
Alexander Valley is located in Sonoma County, not Napa. The Alexander Valley Appellation is the largest AVA in Sonoma County and sits east of the 101 freeway in Northern Sonoma County, with vineyards sprawling acros the valley and stretching up into the foothills of the Mayacama Mountains. This region has long been prized for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc wines, as well as other varietals such as Merlot, Chardonnay, Syrah and Zinfandel. Winemakers have been able to take advantage of the warm summer days and cool nights to produce unique wines that reflect both soil and climate characteristics.
Differences Between Silver Oak Napa and Alexander Valley Wines
The Silver Oak Alexander Valley and Napa Valley wines offer differet flavor profiles depending on the winemaking techniques used to craft each. The Alexander Valley wines are aged in both new and once-used American oak barrels for about 14 months before being bottled, which gives them a softer, more rounded flavor. The Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, on the other hand, is aged exclusively in new American oak barrels for 20 months before being bottled. This produces a bolder, more structured flavor that is often described as having a richer bouquet and finish.
Number of Wineries in Alexander Valley
Alexander Valley is home to 42 wineries, spread across over 15,000 vineyard acres. The valley has become well kown for its production of high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon, which first began to be produced here in the 1960s and 1970s. Although the area retains its rural charm, it is also a thriving hub of winemaking activity, with an abundance of boutique wineries and larger producers alike.
Conclusion
The 2018 vintage of Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to the unique characteristics of the region, delivering a rich and full-bodied wine with chocolate notes and a long finish. Its deep ruby hue and intense flavors of blackberry and currant are complemented by firm tannins, giving this Cabernet Sauvignon an impressive balance, complexity and structure. This wine can be enjoyed now or cellared for the next decade or more. The Alexander Valley appellation is renowned for its exceptional Cabernets, making this vintage an excellent choice for those looking for an exceptional expression of this classic varietal.
