2011 Brand Cabernet Sauvignon

Mocha, plums, espresso and spices all flesh out in the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich, voluptuous an textured, the 2011 is firing on all cylinders. The 2011 is cool, inward and tightly wound, with a fabulous combination of fruit and structure. Grilled herbs, sweet tobacco and mint add complexity on the finish, all supported by sweet, silky tannins that are a hallmark of the house style. The 2011, a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon spent 25 months in French oak (84% new). I tasted the wine just prior to bottling.

The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is slightly better, an anomaly given the vintage differences. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon harvested between October 24-31, it reveals more character, richness and dimension than its older sibling. Plenty of blue and black fruits intermixed with notes of camphor and subtle oak appear in this medium-bodied wine along with impressive fruit concentration, purity, texture and underlying minerality. This successful 2011 should drink well for a decade or more. This 12-acre vineyard situated at a 1,350 foot elevation above Lake Hennessey on Pritchard Hill is planted with the four classic Bordeaux varietals, and 2012 was the first harvest made in their new wine cellar. The debut release was 2009, which I have not tasted. Brand’s neighbors in this high rent district are noteworthy – Ovid, David Arthur and Colgin. Tel. (707) 963-1199

There is little question the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon has the best aromatic definition and nuance of the three vintages that have been made from this site thus far. Grilled herbs, tobacco, smoke, incense and scorched earth jump from the glass. The 2011 stands out for its gorgeous energy and finesse. This is a promising side.