Frequently Asked Questions
Crafted from the elevated vineyards of Alexander Valley, the 2018 Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to mountain winemaking excellence. This full-bodied red boasts complex layers of dark fruits such as blackcurrant, raspberry, and plum, complemented by savory notes of dried herbs, violet, and a touch of milk chocolate. Aged for 20 months in oak, it reveals subtle hints of vanilla, tobacco, and anise, culminating in a well-structured palate framed by fine tannins and vibrant acidity. Perfectly balanced and highly expressive, this wine is a luxurious choice for connoisseurs, pairing effortlessly with robust dishes or delighting as an elegant standalone sip.
Process & Profile
Crafted from the extraordinary Alexander Valley in California, the 2018 Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon embodies the essence of mountain winemaking. This wine is a blend predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon, with subtle additions of Petit Verdot, matured for 20 months in 35% new French oak. The fruit is sourced from high-altitude vineyards ranging from 400 to 2,400 feet, which lend complexity and intensity to each bottle. With an alcohol content of 14.3%, this wine delivers a harmonious balance of bold flavors and refinement.Tasting Notes
Discover a symphony of flavors and aromas that make this vintage unforgettable:- Aromas: Initial notes of blackberry, blood orange, and fresh herbs like bay leaf, layered with hints of violet, chaparral, and mint chocolate.
- Flavors: Deep bramble fruit, black currant, plum, and blackberry dominate, accented by cocoa, licorice, and baking spices.
- Palate: The wine boasts a rich, inviting mouthfeel supported by fine-grained tannins, bright acidity, and a lengthy, concentrated finish.
What Makes It Special
- Mountain-Terroir Excellence: Stonestreet's estate vineyards, in the Mayacamas Mountain range, benefit from lean soils and cool climates, leading to smaller berries with intense flavor profiles.
- Award-Winning Vintage: The 2018 vintage has earned critical acclaim, receiving 94 points from Wine Enthusiast and Wine Advocate for its balance of elegance and complexity.
- Sustainable Craftsmanship: Hand-harvested and produced using traditional methods like native yeast fermentation, every step is designed to highlight the best of the fruit and terroir.
How to Enjoy
- Pairings: Savor this wine alongside robust dishes such as grilled lamb, braised short ribs, or aged cheddar cheeses to complement its bold structure and layered flavors.
- Serving Tips: Decant for 30–60 minutes to allow the wine to fully open up, and serve at 60–65°F.
- Aging Potential: Already delightful, the 2018 Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon will continue to evolve beautifully in the cellar through 2042.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tasting notes of Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon?
Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon features rich and complex flavors, including dark fruits like blackberry and blackcurrant, complemented by notes of bramble, cocoa, and bright acidity. Secondary flavors include savory hints of dark caramel, California bay, and chaparral. The wine offers fine tannins, a full-bodied texture, and a long, concentrated finish.
How is Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon produced?
Grapes for the Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon are grown across the winery's high-elevation vineyards in Alexander Valley, ranging from 400 to 2,400 feet above sea level. The wine is aged for 20 months in oak barrels (35% new French oak), which enhances its structure and imparts flavors of spice, vanilla, and licorice.
How does Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon compare to other Cabs?
Stonestreet Cabernet Sauvignon distinguishes itself with its mountain-grown fruit, delivering a blend of boldness and refinement. Its high-elevation terroir fosters concentrated flavors and a structured profile, offering a balance of bright acidity and plush tannins, setting it apart from lower-elevation wines.
What food pairs well with Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine pairs excellently with hearty dishes like roasted lamb, grilled steak, and braised short ribs. It also complements richly flavored cheeses, roasted root vegetables, and dark chocolate desserts, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Can Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon be aged?
Yes, Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon has excellent aging potential due to its robust tannin structure and balanced acidity. When properly stored, it will continue to evolve, developing richer and more integrated flavors over time, with peak enjoyment often occurring 7–10 years after bottling.
What is the alcohol content of Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon?
The wine typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 14.5%, aligning with the standard for premium, full-bodied Cabernets from California.
Does Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon require decanting?
Decanting is recommended to fully appreciate its complex flavors. Allow the wine to breathe for at least 30 minutes before serving. This process helps to soften its tannins and enhance aromatic intensity.
Where is Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon grown?
The wine is crafted in the Alexander Valley AVA in Sonoma County, California, specifically from mountain vineyards in the proposed Pocket Peak AVA. These high elevations provide optimal sun exposure, cooler temperatures, and unique soil compositions for producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon.
Is Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon a single varietal or a blend?
While primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 vintage includes a small percentage of Petit Verdot (1.5%) to add complexity and depth.
How is Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon rated?
The 2018 vintage received critical acclaim, with a 94-point rating from both *Wine Enthusiast* and *Robert Parker's Wine Advocate*. Critics praise its elegant structure, depth of flavor, and aging potential.
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