The Central Coast of California is a region that boasts a diverse range of microclimates and soil types, making it ideal for cultivating a variety of grape varietals. This area is known for its cool ocean breezes and fog, which create a unique climate that is greatly influenced by the Pacific Ocean. These maritime influences help to moderate temperatures, resulting in a longer, more even growing season.
ARIEL Vineyards takes full advantage of this favorable terroir to produce exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The vineyards are meticulously tended to by skilled viticulturists who carefully manage the vines throughout the year. They pay close attention to factors such as pruning, canopy management, and irrigation, ensuring that the grapes receive the optimal conditions for growth and ripening.
When the grapes reach their peak maturity, they are hand-harvested to ensure that only the highest quality fruit is selected. This meticulous attention to detail is crucial in producing wines of exceptional character and complexity.
Once the grapes are harvested, they are transported to the winery where they undergo a gentle pressing to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented using traditional winemaking techniques, including temperature control to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the grapes.
After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels to further develop its complexity and enhance its structure. The use of oak imparts subtle flavors of vanilla, spice, and toast, adding depth and dimension to the final product.
The result is Ariel Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine that showcases the best of California's Central Coast. It is characterized by its rich, dark fruit flavors of blackberries, black currants, and plums, with hints of cedar and tobacco. The wine has a velvety texture, well-integrated tannins, and a long, lingering finish.
I have personally had the pleasure of tasting Ariel Cabernet Sauvignon and can attest to its exceptional quality. The wine displays a perfect balance of fruit, tannin, and acidity, making it a true delight to savor.
Ariel Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the esteemed ARIEL Vineyards, which benefits from the access to J. Lohr's extensive estate vineyards along California's Central Coast. The combination of the region's unique climate, meticulous vineyard management, and traditional winemaking techniques result in a wine that truly showcases the best of this renowned winegrowing region.