AROMAS & FLAVORS
The aromas of this fruit-driven Cabernet Sauvignon are as deep and rich as its inky color, effusing notes of blackberries, black cherries and cassis, layered with complex hints of cedarwood, cinnamon and white pepper. The depth of berry fruit is intense and compact upon entry, the flavors unfolding with vivid acidity and mouth-filling, espresso-dusted tannins. Full-bodied, fresh and firmly structured, this Alexander Valley Cabernet ends with a long, spicy finish.
VINEYARDS
Alexander Valley is best known for Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that thrive from the valley floor all the way up the rolling hillsides and mountain ridges. The gravelly loam soils straddling the Russian River also encourage other varietals like Chardonnay, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc to flourish. This is the fifth vintage of this wine from Chateau St. Jean and it captures the hallmark characteristics of Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon – rich, fleshy and voluptuous.
THE VINTAGE
2017 began with abundant rainfall, followed by a mild spring resulting in extended flowering. Warm late-summer temperatures moved harvest along quickly. Yields for the 2017 vintage were slightly lower than the previous couple of vintages. Overall, the vintage 2017 wines are of excellent quality, host complex flavors, concentrated color, and offer overall finesse.
FOOD PAIRINGS
This deep, rich characters of this Cabernet Sauvignon pair well with roasted, broiled or barbequed red meats such as lamb, beef, pork or veal. Medium and strong-flavored semi-soft, semi-hard, aged or creamy cheeses also pair beautifully with this wine.