Sequoia Grove 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa
Who would have guessed Napa Valley, a small pioneer community established during the gold rush days would flourish into one of the most prestigious wine growing regions in the world today? Surrounded by its purple hued mountains, Sequoia Grove Winery sits on 22 acres right in the heart of the valley floor in a region referred to as the “Rutherford Bench”. Here the alluvial soil, rich in minerals, combined with the fog from the bay, mingling with the warm inland temperatures create the ideal location to produce Cabernet Sauvignon. Michael Trujillo, the Director of Winemaking and President, has been with Sequoia Grove since its beginnings joining the team in 1982 and has the passion to acquire the best Napa Valley fruit available.
Opening a bottle of the 2011, which is a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec and aged for 20 months (60% French and 40% American oak), I noticed a dark purple, almost inky color with aromas of fresh ripe red and blue fruit. The palate shows the fruit nicely with raspberries and black cherry flavors, a little jammy, firm tannins, touch of spice with smoky chocolate and coffee nuances. Decanting this young Cabernet will benefit. Nice value around $35.
Cheers!