2019 Obsidian Ridge Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

A remarkable value big Cabernet with chewy tannins, cherry, gunpowder, and floral notes, priced around $30, competing well with pricier Napa Valley options.

Producer

Obsidian Ridge

Region

Red Hills, Lake County, CA

Country

USA

Varietal

Cabernet Sauvignon

Varietal Composition

94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec, 1% Petite Sirah, 1% Syrah

Specifications

2019

Vintage

2028

Drink By

ABV

Vinification

Grapes from multiple blocks at altitudes from 2,300 - 2640’ are aged 18 months in 40% new Hungarian oak barrels (very rare for California wines)

Occasional wine note

This was one of the wines we tried as part of our California Wine Appellation Specialist certification. We were blown away by the value of this wine. This is a big cab in the $30 range that stands up well against many cabs from neighboring Napa Valley that are 2 or 3x the price. Chewy tannin, lots of cherry, gunpowder, and a few floral notes. If you want a strong cab that doesn't break the bank, this one fits the bill brilliantly.

What experts say about this wine

100

Wine Enthusiast

Significantly tannic but also flavorful enough to pull it off, this full-bodied wine is a good candidate for further aging. It brims with black currant, graphite and black cherry flavors that are vivid but not overblown, achieving good balance and complexity. Aged for 18 months in 40% new Hungarian oak barrels, it should be best from 2026

100

Wilfred Wong

COMMENTARY: The 2019 Obsidian Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon brings excellent attention to the somewhat under-the-radar Red Hills. TASTING NOTES: This wine shines with aromas and flavors of black fruit, dried spices, and oak. Enjoy it with grilled beef. (Tasted: September 29, 2021, San Francisco, CA)

pairing recommendation