LANCASTER ESTATE, CABERNET SAUVIGNON ALEXANDER VALLEY
SONOMA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA 2018
If you’re not aware of the Alexander Valley, you need to be. This is where the original cult Cabernet, Silver Oak, was birthed, and since that landmark achievement this Sonoma region has only grown to become synonymous with wines of enormous power, density, and concentration.
The valley’s calling card are its Bordeaux-style Cabernet-based blends, the best of which, in our estimation, put them in the first rank of Cabernet producers. These are Cabernets with old-school flair and Old World finesse, with tremendous textural weight and depth, and — not least — providing some of the best quality-to-price ratio you’re going to find in all of California.
And no Alexander Valley producer is more rewarding right now than Lancaster Estate.
We are thrilled to have just obtained an allocation of their 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, which Wine Advocate, in a gushing 94 point review, called “gorgeous.”
After a recent tasting, we heartily second that assessment. In fact, we were given to marvelling at Lancaster’s track record over the past five years, to the point that each release now amounts to a virtual guarantee.
Located just outside Heraldsburg, California, the estate is situated on 53 hillside acres of vineyards in the eastern hills of southern Alexander Valley. It is a terroir that is optimally suited to the mission at Lancaster. Not only is the valley home to many microclimates, but the diverse, low-nutrient soil – a mix of ancient volcanic components, sand, and gravel – uncannily echoes that of Bordeaux, stressing the grapes and concentrating their character and intensity.
The winemaker at Lancaster, David Drake, further enhances the prospects for his wines by keeping yields low – a loss to the bottom line, but one that pays enormous dividends for the drinker, in the form of greater focus and elegance.
The ’18 is made up of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec for softening and complexity. As its ruby red color suggests, its nose is delicate, with aromas of black and red cherries, dried herbs, and floral notes. The palate, however, is a good deal fleshier than you might expect, a welcome and wonderful thing. Wine Advocate singled out a “Goldilocks ripeness,” along with “very finely grained tannins and bursts of freshness,” and enthused over its “very long and layered” finish.
Give it 2-3 years in bottle – it will reward you handsomely.
We’ll have a supply on hand for only the next week, so order now!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Summer 2022. With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in CT, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, MI, MN, MO, NJ, NM, NY, or TN. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Sunday, April 10, 2022.
