Ironstone Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Overview
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Seductive and full-bodied, exuding aromas of fresh berries, black currants and black cherries that are laced with eucalyptus, cedar and mint. Big and powerful, yet elegant, this Cabernet exhibits flavors of sweet dark blackberry and plum with soft, creamy vanilla that plays well with the unique mineral qualities found only in wines from Sierra Foothill vineyards. |
Wine Facts
Winemaker Notes
Located at 2,400 feet above sea level, these grapes were Estate-grown at Ironstone’s Hay Station Ranch vineyard, where warm days are cooled by the evening mountain air. This area’s unique soil of decomposed granite mixed with volcanic sediment and red clay produces a wonderful mineral component. Grapes have been grown in the Sierra Foothills for 150 years. The winery practices sustainable viticultural practices such as crop reduction, leaf removal, organic materials and drip irrigation to improve the quality of the grapes and intensity of flavors. Cover crops, which attract beneficial insects, are also employed, as well as the placement of owl and wood duck boxes around the vineyards and ponds to help preserve the surrounding habitats. After harvest, and after undergoing extended fermentation and maceration, the wine was transferred into small French and American oak barrels and placed into underground caverns for 20 months. This ensured a fuller, richer, finer wine of true varietal character. These caverns remain a natural 60° F year- round, which slowly lowers the wine’s alcohol while preserving its concentration of flavor.
Serving Hints
Serve at room temperature with grilled meats, lamb chops, and strong cheeses. It is also an excellent choice for chocolate desserts such as molten chocolate cake, bittersweet chocolate mousse, or a simple plate of homemade fudge.
Located at 2,400 feet above sea level, these grapes were Estate-grown at Ironstone’s Hay Station Ranch vineyard, where warm days are cooled by the evening mountain air. This area’s unique soil of decomposed granite mixed with volcanic sediment and red clay produces a wonderful mineral component. Grapes have been grown in the Sierra Foothills for 150 years. The winery practices sustainable viticultural practices such as crop reduction, leaf removal, organic materials and drip irrigation to improve the quality of the grapes and intensity of flavors. Cover crops, which attract beneficial insects, are also employed, as well as the placement of owl and wood duck boxes around the vineyards and ponds to help preserve the surrounding habitats. After harvest, and after undergoing extended fermentation and maceration, the wine was transferred into small French and American oak barrels and placed into underground caverns for 20 months. This ensured a fuller, richer, finer wine of true varietal character. These caverns remain a natural 60° F year- round, which slowly lowers the wine’s alcohol while preserving its concentration of flavor.
Serving Hints
Serve at room temperature with grilled meats, lamb chops, and strong cheeses. It is also an excellent choice for chocolate desserts such as molten chocolate cake, bittersweet chocolate mousse, or a simple plate of homemade fudge.
PProducer: Ironstone Vineyards
Region: Sierra Foothills, California
Country: United States
Wine Composition: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc
Alcohol: 14.5%
Total Acidity: 5.64 G/L
Residual Sugar: 2.5 G/L
pH: 3.86
Region: Sierra Foothills, California
Country: United States
Wine Composition: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc
Alcohol: 14.5%
Total Acidity: 5.64 G/L
Residual Sugar: 2.5 G/L
pH: 3.86
Press Highlights
Ironstone Vineyards 2012 Grower of the Year, John Kautz Family, California Association of Wine Grape Growers, Jan. 24, 2012Ironstone Vineyards, 2011 Best of Lodi Award, US Commerce Association, Sept. 12, 2011
Ironstone Vineyards 2014 Top 25 Most Awesome Tasting Rooms in California, IntoWine, Michael Cervin, May 2014
2013: 91 Pts - 'Cellar Selection' - Wine Enthusiast, May 2014
2012: Gold - Calaveras County Wine Competition, 2015
2012: Silver - San Francisco International Wine Competition, 2015
2012: Silver - California State Fair Wine Competition, 2015
2012: Bronze - Los Angeles International Wine Competition, 2015
2011: Silver - Calaveras Wine Competition, May 2014
2006: Silver - Calaveras County Fair Wine Competition 2010
2006: Silver - San Antonio Wine Competition 2010
2006: 89 Pts - Tasting Panel, December 2009, Publisher’s Picks
2006: 87 Pts - Wine Enthusiast, December 15, 2009
2006: 93 Pts - Justwinepoints.com, August 4, 2009