Frequently Asked Questions
Crafted at an extraordinary altitude of 2,640 feet on the volcanic slopes of California's Red Hills, Obsidian Ridge Half Mile Cabernet Sauvignon is a bold and elegant expression of mountain viticulture. This meticulously blended wine showcases the power of Cabernet Sauvignon with supportive layers of Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah, delivering notes of ripe blackberry, dried cherries, and a hint of black licorice. Aged exclusively in 100% Hungarian oak barrels, its flavors are enhanced by nuances of clove, nutmeg, and star anise, creating a luxurious harmony. With a velvety texture, structured tannins, and a long, earthy finish, it's the perfect choice for pairing with lamb, goat cheese, or indulgent chocolate desserts. Rated 95 points by Wine Enthusiast, Obsidian Ridge Half Mile offers an unmatched experience for those seeking sophistication and depth in every sip.
Process & Profile
Obsidian Ridge's Half Mile Cabernet Sauvignon is a triumph of high-altitude viticulture. Cultivated at an impressive elevation of 2,640 feet in California's Red Hills Lake County, this wine draws its name from the half-mile mark above sea level where the vineyard thrives. The blend is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, with complementary contributions from Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah, enhancing structure and depth. Aged for 18 months in 100% Hungarian oak barrels—crafted from the dense, volcanic Tokaj forest wood—this wine achieves harmonious complexity and a distinctive character. The volcanic soils and mountain climate develop small, thick-skinned grapes, resulting in bold flavors and robust tannins.Tasting Notes
This wine greets the nose with aromas of blackberries, dried cherries, and licorice, accompanied by an elevated freshness of pine forest essence. On the palate, expect rich flavors of cocoa powder, espresso, and juicy blackberries. The finish reveals a taut tannic structure and subtle earthy undertones. Its deep garnet hue and aromatic complexity showcase the hallmark of meticulously cultivated mountain-grown fruit.What Makes It Special
- Unique Elevation & Volcanic Soils: Grown at the highest elevations in California, atop volcanic red soils strewn with obsidian, this Cabernet stands out for its intensity and depth of flavor.
- Hungarian Oak Aging: Unlike any other Cabernet Sauvignon in California, this wine is aged exclusively in K√°d√°r Hungarian oak barrels. The high-density wood imparts subtle herbal and spice notes without overpowering.
- Winemaker's Blend: Crafted by selecting the finest individual barrels, this blend is a product of expert artistry, marrying power and refinement.
How to Enjoy
Obsidian Ridge Half Mile Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with savory dishes that match its bold profile. Enjoy with:- Grilled lamb seasoned with rosemary and garlic
- Goat cheese ravioli with a touch of lemon zest
- Rich, dark chocolate desserts for a luxurious finish
Why Choose Obsidian Ridge Half Mile Cabernet Sauvignon
Boasting a 95-point rating from Wine Enthusiast, this wine is the perfect choice for enthusiasts seeking a rare and expressive mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. It's a celebration of terroir, winemaking mastery, and the distinct character of California's high-elevation vineyards.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the unique feature of Obsidian Ridge Half Mile Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine is crafted from grapes grown at an impressive elevation of 2,640 feet on the Mayacamas mountain range, making it one of the highest vineyards in California. The volcanic soils and mountain climate produce a varietally vibrant, structured, and powerful Cabernet Sauvignon with distinct mineral-rich characteristics.
What is the blend composition of this wine?
The Half Mile Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by nearly equal parts of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot, which contribute structure, floral notes, and complexity.
What are the tasting notes for this wine?
This full-bodied wine offers rich and complex flavors. Aromas include blackberries, dried cherries, licorice, and fresh pine. On the palate, expect notes of cocoa powder, espresso, and juicy blackberries, concluding with a structured tannic finish and an earthy undertone.
What type of oak is used for aging this wine?
Obsidian Ridge Half Mile Cabernet Sauvignon is aged exclusively in Hungarian oak barrels made from high-density wood sourced from the Tokaj forests. This oak imparts refined and subtle flavors without overwhelming toastiness. The wine is aged for 31 months in these barrels, 50% of which are new.
What foods pair well with this wine?
The robust flavors and structure of this wine make it an excellent companion for dishes like lamb rump, goat cheese ravioli, or anything with confit lemon. The bold tannins also complement hearty meat dishes and richly flavored cheeses.
What distinguishes Obsidian Ridge from other Cabernet Sauvignons?
Obsidian Ridge is unique not only for its high-altitude vineyard but also for its exclusive use of Hungarian oak barrels. The volcanic soils of its vineyard add mineral complexity, and its sustainable farming practices reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Can this wine be aged, and for how long?
Yes, this wine has excellent aging potential due to its high elevation, structured tannins, and meticulous winemaking processes. With proper cellar storage, it can develop even greater depth and complexity over the next 7-10 years.
Is the wine considered vegan or natural?
Obsidian Ridge wines are considered vegan, as they do not use animal-derived products like egg whites or fish gelatin for clarification. While not classified strictly as natural wine, their sustainable farming practices and minimized chemical inputs align with many principles of natural winemaking.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The Obsidian Ridge Half Mile Cabernet Sauvignon has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 14.9%, typical for a full-bodied red wine of this caliber.
What should I do if a specific vintage is not available when ordering?
If a particular vintage is unavailable, a comparable vintage will be substituted for online orders. Always check the bottle label or contact the retailer for questions about specific vintages.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
You may also like
Recently viewed
