Cabernet sauvignon 2020 (Martin Ray)

Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. It is recommended to decant it for half an hour. The Martin Ray brand made the history of Californian wine for at least 30 years between the 40s and 70s, when it was considered a true pioneer of Santa Cruz viticulture. The same brand was then purchased and revamped in the 90s by Courtney Benham, who then moved its headquarters to Santa Rosa. Today, the company, which owns 5 hectares of vineyards and sources grapes from growers in nearby regions, produces a range of excellent wines under the leadership of winemakers Leslie Mead Renaud and Raemy Paterson. Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are sourced from selected, low-yielding vineyards in Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, and Napa County. The balance of this blend comes precisely from the different characteristics of climate, soil, and altitude between the various vineyards. After the harvest, the grapes are left to ferment for approximately 2 weeks in separate batches. The finished wine is aged in French oak for 12 months. The wine reveals an intense, deep color and an intensely fruity aromatic profile. On the nose there are notes of currants and blackberries and undergrowth berries, and then aromas of herbs and spices. On the palate, it is well structured and firm with silky and perfectly integrated tannins. The finish is long and recalls light notes of spices. It’s an excellent choice with grilled red meat.