a CAB that smells good and gets you where you want to go!
Written: Nov 27 '00 (Updated Nov 28 '00)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Rich, robust, complex
Cons: limited production
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| Beauregard's Full Review: Sokol Blosser Cabernet Sauvignon 1992 |
That's right, a review of a wonderful CAB! Actually, a cabernet sauvignon from the Pacific Northwest's best winery, Sokol Blosser. This is a review of the 1992 Cabernet Sauvignon from Sokol Blosser.
I had the pleasure to attend Sokol Blosser's Thanksgiving event for the second year in a row, where they break out every existing wine they've ever made and currently offer. For a modest tasting fee ($10), you have access to $60 and $70 bottles of wine, and the more modest $15 bottles too. It's a chance to taste the best they have in a festive atmosphere with novice wine tasters and with expert wine tasters. I fall somewhere in the middle, with this being my 9th or 10th time to a vineyard.
When I approached the Cabernet Sauvignon table, I was surprised to see only 3 bottles available for tasting, the 1992, the 1994 and 1995. I asked why so few, and the daughter of the winemaker told me the Northwest is well known for its Pinot Noirs, but not for its Cabs. The Cab grapes are just too inconsistent to justify too much trouble over Cabs in this part of the country. As such, Sokol Blosser has pulled up all their Cab vines to replace them with the more consistent, and profitable, Pinot Noir vines.
Intrigued by the claim of inconsistency, I was sure that among the three available bottles, their had to be a gem. I was right. While the 1995 and 1994 were palatable, they lacked a robust flavor I demand from my Cabs.
However, the 1992 was simply succulent. Rich, complex and robust. Even with the chilly temperature the wine was served at (the event was held in the wine storage basement in late November on a rainy day. brrr!), the 1992 held its own.
Characteristics of the 1992 Cab
Color -- the deep garnet of this wine means it will look as deeply rich in a wine glass as it did in the bottle from which its poured.
Nose -- you're first hit with a subtle oak that then is cut with a deep dark fruit essence. It reminds me of a dark library, filled with leather-bound books, a fire roaring in the fireplace and bold classical music curling through the air.
Flavor -- my mouth is watering just thinking of the words to describe this wine. As with the nose, it's the oak you encounter first. your tongue tastes oak first, but as the wine descends to the sides of your mouth and towards your throat, the fruit opens up and then finishes off with a hint of chocolate. There are no bitter tannins to spoil this complex wine.
Aftertaste -- this wine will stay with you for a minute or two. I've experienced as much from this wine 30 seconds after swallowing it as I have when it first hits my tongue. I feel like I'm breathing up liquid so rich and good, it might as well be pure gold.
We bought a bottle and can't wait to have the occasion to open this winner of a cabernet sauvignon. It's one of those wines you will swish your glass, smell the scent and anticipate the splash of flavor before each sip. It's not a wine you will take for granted after 3 or 4 sips during a meal. The 1992 Sokol Blosser Cabernet Sauvignon will probably be the best part of any meal it's served with.
And, with production of all Sokol Blosser ceased, treat yourself to a dying beauty. You won't regret it.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
Beauregard
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 - Top 500 |
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Location: Portland, Oregon
Reviews written: 129
Trusted by: 129 members
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