Rodney Strong Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Region: Sonoma
Winery: Rodney Strong
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Over thirty years ago Rod Strong observed that the cool, foggy nights that regularly enshrouded the winery, though crucial in the ripening process of fine pinot noir and chardonnay, were not ideal for growing cabernet sauvignon. For that, Rod would have to look north, to the Alexander Valley, where the days are warmer and the strong influence of the cool Pacific Ocean is diminished. Today we farm over 250 acres of prime cabernet sauvignon in the well drained alluvial and volcanic soils on the benches and hillsides of the celebrated Alexander Valley.The 2004 vintage began with an early bud break during an unseasonably warm March, followed by a contrastingly cool April. After a normal May and June, July and the first part of August were on the cool side, but by the end of August, harvest was well underway as a heat spell got ripening going strong and early for most varietals, with all of our cabernet in by the 21st of October.Aromas of blackberry, cocoa, and cedar lead to a rich, layered mouthfeel, replete with black cherry, vanilla, and cassis, and structured with lush, mature tannins. Enjoy this seductive cabernet sauvignon now and over the next several years. 2004 Acclaim: GOLD - International Eastern Wine Competition, June 2007 2003 Acclaim: 90 POINTS, Editor's Choice, Wine Enthusiast, December 2006 90 POINTS, GOLD - Top 10 under $20, Chicago Value Wine Challenge, World Wine Championships 2006 Critics GOLD - Critics Challenge International Wine Competition 2006 90 POINTS, SILVER - California State Fair Wine Competition 2006 GOOD/VERY GOOD - Wall Street Journal, May 10, 2006 90 POINTS - Wine Enthusiast, October 2006

Posted by thewinery on December 2nd, 2007 at 9:22pm | report comment