Friday, March 1, 2013

Oak Vineyard 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon

Oak Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

As most of us do as we get older, I have found myself gravitating toward wine as an evening beverage of choice. Also like most of us, I find it hard to justify spending a lot of money every time I would like a bottle of wine. This Blog will strive to explore the affordable wine selections and review them from the viewpoint of an average person.
Today, I am trying Oak Vineyards California Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 (12.5% alcohol by volume). I saw this on sale at Whole Foods for $2.49 a bottle, and figured I'd give it a try.
Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were originally made by a chance crossing in the 17th century between the Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc varieties of grapes in France. Cabernet Sauvignon is supposed to retain the black currant and pencil box aromas of Cabernet Franc, and the grassiness of Sauvignon Blanc. The grape itself is well suited to many climates and is grown the world over. for most of the 20th century, Cabernet Sauvignon was the most planted red wine grape in the world (it was overtaken by Merlot in the 1990's).
Now maybe one day I will understand what a pencil box aroma is. As of the time of writing this, I do not. Cabernet Sauvignon are also supposed to have a green heel pepper flavor as well as mint, and eucalyptus. I do not detect any of the mint flavor in this wine (although I am not a fan of mint, so I tend to avoid it, and may not be attuned to it's finer flavor points. I can taste a bit of the "green bell pepper" flavor that is attributed to this variety, but not enough that I would have called it that if I hadn't read that the flavor is present from wikipedia and the vintner. I have never tried eucalyptus, so I have no reference point for that flavor.
I would describe the flavor as full and rich. It has a subtle dryness, and an earthy heartiness. Halfway through the bottle, I feel a relaxing, calming buzz. I feel this is a great inexpensive Red to serve with hearty meat dishes.

“The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon captures the very best qualities of this variety, with its hints of bell pepper and spice aromas. This wine is full-flavored and hearty yet soft on the palate with a smooth, long finish.”

Emily DuBoce, Winemaker

The Oak Vineyards 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon won the gold medal at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo International Wine Competition 2013.