2009 Derenoncourt Cabernet Sauvignon

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$45 (retail) Wine Club pricing reflected in receipt

When a wine makes the cover of Wine Spectator magazine, it’s parallel to a rocker making the cover of Rolling Stone.  And it doesn’t happen very often. . .over the past year or so, only three wines have had their big moment. . .including the 90-point ’09 Derenoncourt Cab from Lake County.  It was front and center on the February 28, 2014 cover alongside the headline, “Editors” Picks—Wines to Discover in 2014.

We got behind this wine a few years ago when the 2007 vintage was released, again scoring 90 points from Wine Spectator (the 2006 vintage earned 92 points; there was no 2008 release).  Here’s the cool part. . .as far as we know, we’re the only source for this wine in Northern California.  Google it for yourself.

French Winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt’s California project has been a huge hit; he produced seven wines for the current vintage, and two are sold out already (most wine is sold through the winery’s web site).  Pricing ranges up to $175 per bottle; only two wines are under $100 ($90 and the Red Hills cab at $45).

We’re fortunate to get this juice, so please enjoy!

Winery Tasting Notes:  “Our popular entry-level Cabernet from the volcanic soil near Clear Lake is back after a one-vintage hiatus, and in 2009 this wine is hitting new heights of depth and complexity. Harvested at optimum ripeness before the October rains, the grapes’ remarkable concentration and ample acidity gave a wine that strikes the perfect balance between brightness and richness. An enticing nose of fresh plum, caramel sauce and vanilla give way to buoyant yet dense flavors of candied cherries, ground black pepper, and cinnamon, overlaid with lively tannins and a dark minerality. A joy to drink.”

Wine Spectator Review, 90 Points:  “This offers plenty of muscle to the flavors of red and dark berry, red and black licorice, and cedary earth and oak. Notably dense and concentrated for a Lake County Cabernet. Drink now through 2023.”  –James Laube

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