October 13, 2021
7 Big, Bold Cabernet Sauvignons Under $25
Still
Miro Tcholakov
Alexander Valley
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo., Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Sangiovese
Geyserville Estate Vineyard.
Sustainable
The 200 acre Geyserville Estate Vineyard consists of 12 red grape varietals, varying in age from 4 to 128 years old. While the majority of the vines are supported by trellis wires, the Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Carignane blocks are head pruned, which allows these varieties to produce higher quality fruit. Although more labor is involved in farming grapes this way, the improved fruit quality outweighs the increase time and labor cost. All of the fruit is handpicked, mostly at night which keeps the temperature of the juice from 50 to 60 ° F, which preserves and enhances the flavors of the grapes. Soil-building cover crops are used to add nutrients and nitrogen into the soil, as well as control erosion and suppress unwanted weeds, which is part of the winery's sustainable farming efforts. Nothing goes to waste as grape stems and pomace for instance, are composted, turning them into a nutrient-rich material that can be used in the vineyards.
After destemming and cold soaking for 5 days, the grapes were fermented using native and “designer” yeast for an average of 10 days. Post fermentation, all lots were put through extended maceration for another 30-40 days.
15 months in 26% new French and European Oak.
Bottle, Cork
0.750
Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania
Attractive dark red, slightly garnet color followed by abundant varietal aromas and flavors of blueberries, blackberry, and dark plums. The French oak aging contributes aromas of maple, cocoa dust and slight toast. The mouth feel is medium dense and juicy, with balanced acidy and very soft and ripe tannins. Although drinkable now, this wine will continue to improve for 5-7 years for those who have the patience.