Rodney Strong Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
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, volcanic and uplifted shale/sandstone soils on the benches and hillsides of the celebrated Alexander Valley.The 2003 vintage began with a long wet spring, and was followed by a relatively cool summer, which delayed harvest initially. But a September heat wave allowed everything to catch up, and we finished picking all our cabernet sauvignon by the end of October. We fermented this wine on its skins for an average of eight days, and barrel aged it for sixteen months in French and American oak barrels. 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. 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

Rodney Strong Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
Region: Sonoma
Winery: Rodney Strong
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Not a bad flavour, very light & mild. I didn't taste any cherry or black olive, but I would buy it again if I found it at a better price.

Posted by Dionysus' Sponsor on December 3rd, 2007 at 11:05pm | report comment