Stonestreet Bear Point 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon
In the autumn of 1989, Jess Jackson acquired the Zellerbach winery and renamed it in honor of his late father, Jess Stonestreet Jackson. Stonestreet quickly garnered international acclaim for their powerful reds and luscious whites. Today, Stonestreet wines are undergoing a transformation, using fruit from Alexander Mountain Estate and new winemaking techniques. Alexander Mountain Estate, with lean, well-draining soils and cooler temperature, produces fruit with smaller berries and more intense color and flavor. Stonestreet is dedicated to fulfilling the promise of Alexander Valley’s exceptional and distinctive vineyards. Traditional, Old World methods of hand harvesting, small barrel lot production, native yeast fermentation and bottling each wine unfiltered brings out the best in specific grape varieties and provides the quality framework for each Stonestreet wine.
I recently reviewed the 2009 Monument Ridge, which is from several vineyards, and I will now compare it to Bear Point, also a 2009, from a single Vineyard. The Bear Point Cabernet block is situated between 1,000 and 1,200 feet in a cooler spot below the fogline. Only a small amount is produced, as only 511 cases were made compared to about 3900 for the 2009 Monument Ridge. Opening, and be sure to decant, I noticed a very dark enticing red color, with a nose of black and blue fruits, and complex spices. The taste develops nicely showing black berries and cherries with some sweet raspberries, tangy spice, oak and cacao with smooth tannins and balanced acidity. The finish lingers nicely and ends elegantly. This wine will complement a steak as well as a milder dish, and will not disappoint. Grab a Bear Point, if you can find one! Delicious!
Cheers!