Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon: Elevate Your Senses with Mountain-Grown Excellence

Introduction

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon is a bold and elegant expression of mountain viticulture, crafted from the finest grapes grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Lake County, California. This wine exemplifies the unique qualities that come from growing grapes in rugged, elevated terrains, where the combination of cool mountain air, abundant sunshine, and well-drained volcanic soils contribute to a Cabernet Sauvignon that is both rich in flavor and balanced in structure. For those who seek a full-bodied red wine with depth, complexity, and a true sense of place, Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon is an exceptional choice.

Vineyard and Terroir

The grapes for Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced from vineyards situated between 1,500 and 2,400 feet above sea level in the mountains of Lake County. These high-elevation vineyards benefit from a unique microclimate characterized by cooler temperatures, which help to preserve the natural acidity of the grapes while allowing them to ripen fully. The volcanic soils in the region are rich in minerals, imparting a distinct minerality and complexity to the wine.

The high elevation also means that the vines experience greater diurnal temperature variations, with warm days and cool nights. This temperature swing slows the ripening process, allowing the grapes to develop more intense flavors and aromas. The result is a Cabernet Sauvignon with a strong sense of place, reflecting the rugged beauty of its mountain origins.

Winemaking Process

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted with a focus on expressing the pure, concentrated flavors of the grapes while achieving a harmonious balance between fruit, tannins, and oak. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness and undergo a careful sorting process to ensure that only the best fruit makes it into the wine.

After a gentle crushing and fermentation, the wine is aged in a combination of American and French oak barrels. This aging process enhances the wine’s structure and complexity, imparting subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and toast that complement the deep fruit flavors. The winemaking team carefully monitors the aging process to ensure that the wine achieves the perfect balance between power and elegance.

Tasting Notes

•Appearance: Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon pours a deep garnet color with ruby highlights, showcasing its rich concentration and depth.

•Nose: The aromatic profile is intense and inviting, with dominant notes of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and plum. As the wine opens, hints of cedar, tobacco, and dark chocolate emerge, adding layers of complexity.

•Palate: On the palate, this Cabernet Sauvignon is full-bodied and robust, with a core of ripe black fruit flavors, including blackberry, black cherry, and cassis. The wine’s firm tannins provide structure, while well-integrated oak adds nuances of vanilla, clove, and espresso. A touch of minerality adds brightness and balance, leading to a long, smooth finish.

•Finish: The finish is lingering and satisfying, with the fruit flavors gradually giving way to notes of spice, oak, and a hint of graphite, leaving a lasting impression of refinement and power.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of hearty and flavorful dishes.

•Grilled Meats: The bold flavors and firm tannins of this Cabernet Sauvignon make it an excellent match for grilled meats, such as ribeye steak, lamb chops, and barbecued ribs. The wine’s fruitiness complements the smoky, charred flavors of the meat, while its acidity helps to balance the richness.

•Roast Beef or Prime Rib: Pair this wine with a classic roast beef or prime rib for a truly indulgent experience. The wine’s complexity and structure enhance the savory flavors of the meat, creating a harmonious pairing.

•Aged Cheeses: This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with bold, aged cheeses, such as sharp cheddar, Gouda, or blue cheese. The wine’s tannins cut through the richness of the cheese, while its fruit and spice notes complement the cheese’s nutty, savory flavors.

•Dark Chocolate Desserts: For a decadent pairing, try this wine with dark chocolate desserts, such as flourless chocolate cake or chocolate truffles. The wine’s deep fruit flavors and subtle spice notes complement the rich, bittersweet flavors of the chocolate.

Serving and Storage Tips

To fully appreciate the bold and complex flavors of Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon, it is best served at a temperature of 60-65°F (16-18°C). Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving can help to aerate the wine and bring out its full aromatic profile.

While this Cabernet Sauvignon is enjoyable now, it also has the potential to age gracefully for several years. Proper storage in a cool, dark place, ideally at a consistent temperature, will allow the wine’s flavors to evolve and deepen over time.

Conclusion

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful and elegant wine that captures the essence of mountain viticulture in Lake County. With its rich fruit flavors, firm tannins, and subtle oak influence, this Cabernet Sauvignon offers a refined and satisfying tasting experience. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a hearty meal, Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon is sure to impress those who appreciate a well-crafted, full-bodied wine.

For wine lovers seeking a Cabernet Sauvignon that embodies both strength and finesse, Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice. Its connection to the rugged mountain landscape of Lake County adds a unique dimension to the wine, making it a standout addition to any wine collection.