2018 Nickel & Nickel State Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Yountville

92 points

Out Of Stock

Year after year, the ample fruit and velvet tannins of this Yountville star consistently garners critical acclaim. Powerful, plush and highly prized, discover one of the most statement-making Cabernets in the 2018 lineup.

Nickel & Nickel

003-CSR186C

Wine Spectator

Production Notes

This is well-built, with cassis, crushed plum and blackberry fruit flavors that stretch out slowly and surely, inlaid with graphite, sweet tobacco and violet accents throughout. Ample tarry grip on the back end will need some cellaring to unwind. Best from 2022 through 2032. —J.M.

Tasting Notes

From the outset, this is one powerful, deeply expressive Cabernet with heady black currant, plum, and cedar aromas leading into a big, juicy entry. Layered currant and black cherry flavors are accented by elegant clove notes. Bold, coating tannins frame the entire wine, and hints of wet slate add dimension to a dark, brooding finish.

Vineyard Notes

State Ranch is located northeast of the town of Yountville. The 23-acre vineyard is divided into two parcels by State Lane Road and consists of both older and younger vines. Many excellent wines are produced from this area, in part due to the rocky, loam soil which has excellent drainage throughout the year. The vines, as well as the clusters, are moderate in size and the vineyard gets full sun throughout the day. As the young vines mature, we will be harvesting many different clones to make the final wine. Nickel & Nickel selects fruit from 11 acres of the vineyard.

Wine Specs

Vintage

2018

Varietal

Cabernet Sauvignon

Appellation

Yountville

Harvest Date

October 4-27, 2018

Aging

French oak barrels (50% new, 50% once-used)

Alcohol %

13.9

Wine Spectator

WARNING: Drinking distilled spirits, beer, coolers, wine and other alcoholic beverages may increase cancer risk, and, during pregnancy, can cause birth defects. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/alcohol.