Barnett Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

In 2018 climatic conditions were perfect up on Spring Mountain. This Cabernet is evidence of that. Fresh blackberry, anise and mocha are the first things apparent on the nose followed by cola, acai berry and menthol. This is a silky lush wine with layers of dark chocolate, cedar and freshly ground coffee. The tannins are chiefly present, being round pleasing chalky tannins with firm mountain acid balancing them out. The finish is chocolate covered plum. This powerhouse Cabernet is already showing well and will develop even more complexity over the next 10-12 years (2030-2032).

86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc.

After the challenging year that 2017 was, 2018 was a welcome reprieve. For the 2016 vintage a remark was made that it was a near perfect vintage. If 2016 was near perfect than 2018 was perfect. The vintage was a great balance of impeccable quality with an above average quantity. It was a hot but milder summer than in 2017. Fall was a winemaker’s dream of consistent warm weather without heat spikes or rain spells. We brought in the higher elevation fruit first in late October (greater sun exposure), followed by the lower elevation (1300’) in November right before the first rains of Fall occurred. Being a riper year a larger degree of Petit Verdot, 8%, was used to maintain structure. While some Merlot and Cabernet Franc were added to fill in the middle and add complexity respectively.

The grapes were sourced from our estate and neighboring York Creek Vineyards, with the entire blend being solely from the Spring Mountain Appellation and all under estate control. Being a warmer year, the skins were thinner so a longer extraction period occurred, around 22 days on average. Each vineyard block was then aged separately for 22 months, the barrels being French oak and 70% new. The higher addition of Petit Verdot added structured tannins to the big Cabernet Sauvignon fruit while the Merlot adds mouthfeel. The Cabernet Franc adds spice to the aromatics as well as further backbone.

Explore Chardonnay from Barnett Vineyard.

AWARDS & ACCOLADES

 - 93 Pts

Bold, with ripe cassis, blueberries, dates, and a lifted spicy and citrus character. This fresh palate, richly textured, has potential to age.

 - 92 Pts

This shows lots of punchy violet, blackberry, boysenberry and apple wood character, all coated with a melted licorice note and backed by a warmed fruitcake accent on the gently mulled finish. Drink now through 2032

An intense, ripe red with notes of blackberries, blueberries, licorice and wet earth. Baking soda and some menthol, too. Full-bodied with bright acidity, chewy tannins and a fruity finish. Needs time to come together. Try after 2023.