Single vineyard selection, rich & concentrated
Hank Wetzel produced AVV’s first wines in 1975 and the wine world quickly took notice of the elegant Cabernet Sauvignons from Alexander Valley. Thirty years later in 2004 he decided to focus on the flavor profile that made the valley famous, releasing a single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon known as Alexander School Reserve. We continue that tradition with this newest release, a testament to AVV Winemaker Kevin Hall's skill and the Alexander Valley's unique ability to grow amazing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
The 2019 is a one-of-a kind offering. One of our favorite vineyards is about five miles north of the winery. The extreme grade and steep, 30% slope combined with Cabernet Clone 7 produce tiny berries in loose clusters with intense color, rich flavors and incredible concentration.
Although the weather was a bit cooler than usual early in the 2019 growing season, there were no unusual temperature swings during bud break or flowering. Moderate temperatures continued through the summer, allowing the grapes to mature gradually. After 2018’s record setting crop size, 2019 swung back to an average yield. After harvest on September 23rd, the lot was de-stemmed, fermented, then aged in 100% new French oak barrels for 32 months to accentuate the complexity and firm tannins.
Inky color and intense aromas of cassis, black cherry, oak, vanilla, along with a touch of chocolate fill the glass. This is a bright wine with dark fruit flavors of cherry, boysenberry, vanilla, chocolate, and a hint of oak. There is nice texture with well integrated silky tannins and a long finish in this classic Cab. While enjoyable now, this is the choice if you want a Cab for the future. So lay down a few bottles while you can.
ACCOLADES:
2019: 95 points - Somm Journal2019: 95 points & Gold Medal - California State Fair
2019: 95 points & Double Gold Medal - Press Democrat North Coast Wine Competition
2019: 92 points - James Suckling
2019: 92 points & Gold Medal - Sunset International Wine Challenge
