Geyser Peak Walking Tree Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
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The small, beautifully situated Walking Tree Vineyard is a newly developed site on a steep slope directly above the winery estate, planted as part of Winemaker Mick Schroeter's ongoing effort to seek out more hillside Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Alexander Valley. During the clearing of the site in 2001, our vineyard crew was struck by a remarkable tree which, over a period of months, "walked" from the vineyard's summit down the steep grade, while remaining completely upright. Thus, the vineyard seemed to name itself. Every aspect of this site's development are in keeping with the development of a world-class hillside Cabernet site. The very lean soil and substantial rock in its upper horizon lessen fertility and keep fruit and berry clusters small, while sun exposure and microclimate provide ideal ripening conditions.
The deep ruby color of this sumptuous Cabernet gives way to expressive aromas of white pepper, dark berry fruit and cassis. Aging in French oak barrels softens the otherwise firm tannins and introduces hints of toasted vanilla and leather on the palate. Luscious blueberry and blackberry flavors are refined and perfectly balanced by a spiciness that lingers on a long and elegant finish. Only 217 cases produced.
"A lovely, balanced, elegant young Cab. We're not in Napa Valley anymore, for the wine has a dried cherry herbaceousness and different tannin structure, but it defines the style that made Alexander Valley famous for Cabernet Sauvignon. For all those who complain that Cab isn't food-friendly, this one is. Ageability is almost guaranteed. Best now through 2014, with proper cellaring." -Wine Enthusiast
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Founded in 1880 as California’s 29th bonded winery, Geyser Peak Winery has more than 135 years of winemaking history in Sonoma County. Originally located perched on a hillside across from Geyser Peak Mountain, its namesake, it commanded a view of the thermal steam clouds that billowed from the mountain summit. Here, in this special place, geothermal activity created the diverse soil pro?les that make this region so exceptionally well suited to wine grape cultivation.
At the forefront of production since its earliest days, Geyser Peak wines are sourced from prime vineyards that capture the essence of Sonoma. Today, located in Dry Creek Valley, Geyser Peak’s winemakers are carrying the winery’s rich history forward and staking an exciting claim on the future. Specializing in aromatic whites and rich reds, wines are crafted in small lots and fermented separately, then blended together to achieve full expression, balance and character. Each wine captures the essence of Sonoma and the appellation’s unique terroir, offering sophistication and ease, elevation and approachability, and taking us from casual days to connoisseur nights.
While Sonoma County is acclaimed—and rightfully so—for its Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Zinfandels, it also produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Of the region’s 18 American Viticultural Areas, only a handful produce top-notch Cabernet Sauvignon. These appellations include Alexander Valley, Knights Valley, Sonoma Valley and Dry Creek Valley. Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignons made in these appellations can offer a complex array of aromas and flavors. Fruit notes such as blackberry, blackcurrant, cassis, black cherry and raspberry often are accompanied by hints of graphite, dusty earth, cigar box, toast and vanilla. The varietal has a rich history in Sonoma, and some of these Cabernet Sauvignons and Cabernet-based blends rival the best from Napa Valley.