2017 Crown Point Cabernet Sauvignon Happy Canyon Santa Barbara County

Winemaker Notes: The purpose with this wine is to feature Crown Point's hillside vineyard and its synergy with Cabernet Sauvignon. The higher elevation combined with an increased rock content brought a tension into the wines that balance the heat and sunshine. The winery noticed the California clones adapt well to the Mediterranean conditions in this warm year. The clones that provide the backbone to this wine are Clone 8 - defined by its fresh fruit character, tracing back to Chateau Margaux - and To Kalon Clone 2 - infamous To Kalon vineyard selection in Napa delivering spice and concentration. Marked by its intensity, there are complex notes of cherries, blackberries, and floral tones in harmony with it's trademark savoriness. A wine that can be appreciated now or for the next 20 years.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


Wine Enthusiast - "Dark and concentrated in the glass, this bottling immediately reveals an elegantly refined polish. Aromas of blackberry, dark cocoa and black pepper lead into a palate that's concentrated but perfectly ripe. Flavors of black currant, vanilla, toast and a hint of mint are wrapped in complex yet smooth tannins and ample, fresh acidity."


Jeb Dunnuck - "More pure cassis, violets, lead pencil, and flowery incense notes emerge from the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, which has another level of purity, precision, and elegance. Offering full-bodied richness and beautiful balance, with ripe tannins, it's another gorgeous wine in this lineup."


Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "Medium ruby-purple, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, blended with 4% Petit Verdot, has a pretty perfume of rose petals, mushroom powder and graphite with notes of mint chocolate and thyme. Medium-bodied, it has super fine tannins and uplifted acidity that highlights its floral perfume, finishing very layered."


James Suckling - "A juicy and succulent red with lots of ripe black and blue fruit, dark chocolate, licorice and bay leaf. Full body. Slightly lifted alcohol adds warmth to the palate. Long finish with ripe fruit. Drinkable now, but will improve nicely in the bottle. "