Tonight’s occasion: 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon by Prolific Vines Vineyard, Santa Cruz Mountains.
Rich inky color. Dark berries fill the air as soon as you uncork it. Closer inspection reveals a slightly warm nose with more plum and caramel and a hint of red vines licorice. A quick swirl unlocks a smoky, sandy, loam, earthy leather undertone.
Body is extremely composed, especially for a Cabernet Sauvignon of this age. The cooler climate shines here. Attack is mildly acidic but quickly accompanied by big, beautiful, buttery tannins, giving it a full mouth feel. Plum, blueberries and dark cherries dominate the fruit notes, bringing a great overall harmony. Transition to finish is seamless, adding subtle black currant and culminating in a dry tannic grip along with a healthy dose of lingering spice.
This wine is a fine example of a big, bold, layered California Cab. It does one better however. At 13.6% ABV it is very approachable. It does not come with the drama and baggage of most California Cabs today which hover upwards of 14.5-15% ABV. This is an honest, quality, artisan, wine. You won’t find wine like this anywhere else but off the beaten path. It is as I like to call it, Art in a Bottle. Only 109 cases produced. This is the kind of wine I treasure the most.
This is California Wine!
Wine Snob 
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