Today's Cabernet Sauvignon is a single vineyard offering from Wellington Vineyards in Sonoma County California. Included in their diverse offerings are several Rhone varietals, a few blends, a few vineyard designated Zinfandels, Cabernets and more. The Mohrardt Ridge Cabernet is one that Wellington has been making for many years. The 2003 that I looked at is in fact their 15th straight vintage from that vineyard.
The nose of the Mohrardt Ridge offers up lots of spice, blueberries and cedar notes. The first sip reveals oak that is firmly present but in check and reserved. The mid-palate features a lot of dark berry fruit along with continued spice notes that tingle along the tongue and back of the throat. The finish, which is substantial in length, has some light earthiness and subtle black pepper. This Wellington Cabernet is very well balanced with good acidity and firm tannins. An hour or so in the decanter does wonders to change the flavor profile of this wine and allow it to open up and shine.
The retail price on this wine is $22. This is a good value for a wine that has at least 5 years of positive evolution ahead of it. What I liked best about this wine is it's balance. That balance is what helps this wine pair wonderfully with a wide range of foods. This is a New World wine with Old World restraint and elegance. Having had a number of Wellington Vineyards wines over the years it's fair to say that describes their house style.
The next Cabernet featured will be from Mollydooker.
Please take a moment to vote for my blog.