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1996 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County

Vintage

1996 was an early ripening year overall, but due to the naturally late ripening of our estate grapes (this bottling is 95% estate grapes) and stringent irrigation practices, we were able to lengthen the time on the vine. As a result we harvested mature, ripe fruit characterized by good balance and great texture. This Reserve bottling, the result of a meticulous selection process, represents only a small percentage of the grapes harvested in 1996 from the estate property.

Vinification

This Benziger Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvigon was blended from nine lots harvested from six vineyard blocks. A variety of techniques were used to maximize the distinct character of each lot. For example, all lots were cold-soaked, but some for as little as one day and others for as many as five days. Three different yeasts were used, and some were fermented in 3/4 ton bins, punched down daily by hand, while others were fermented in stainless steel tanks and pumped over. All of the lots underwent malolactic fermentation and all were aged in French oak barrels, 30% new, 30% two-year, 20% one-year and 20% neutral. The lots were blended in March of 1998 and bottled, unfiltered, in July of 1998. Alcohol 13.7%, total acidity .59, pH 3.66, residual sugar .11. 1,345 cases produced.

Tasting Notes

This is a beautifully mouth-filling, rich and smooth wine, with moderate tannins and good length. Color is dark red - opaque purple; aromas are of ripe black fruit, cedar, light mint, spice and newly turned earth; flavors are a complex interlacing of baked berry pie, subtle herbs and toasted oak with a well-integrated earthiness. Cellared properly, this wine will develop over the next 5-10 years and should last 15-20 years. Best with full-flavored foods such as beef and venison, stews and roasts, and well-aged cheeses.