2023 Cabernet Sauvignon
Pretty aromatics of currant and sage provide an elegant core of classic varietal expression amidst underlying grace and finesse. Aged in a majority of new French oak for 23 months and again in bottle for another 13, it's well-integrated already but should hold up to aging for 15-20 years. – Virginie Boone, JebDunnuck.com
- 14.5%
- 6.3 G/L
- 3.8
- August 2025
- September 2026
Growing Season
The 2023 growing season at Andrews Family Vineyards was defined by contrast and remarkable balance. A record‑cool spring delayed early development by two to three weeks, yet the shift that arrived in May brought sustained warmth and clear, steady weather. Bordeaux varieties responded immediately, advancing through the season with poise and steady acceleration. By harvest, we were two to three weeks ahead of historical norms, and the pace of ripening required thoughtful, continuous attention from both vineyard and winery teams. Yields were naturally modest—small berries and light clusters—resulting in fruit of exceptional concentration, purity, and lifted aromatic expression.
Vineyard Details
In order to capture a balance of ripe fruit and fresh acidity, Trothe fruit was the first picked in most blocks.
- 99% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot
- CS98 (64%), CS03 (29%), CS16 (6%), PV06 (1%)
- Clone 8, PV Clone 2
- 300 cases
Block CS98
Planted 1998, 9x6 spacing, southern slope (20-25%), warm site, 990-1090 ft. elevation, Mikkalo and Warden silt loam soil
Block CS03
Planted 2003, 9x6 spacing, very slight southern slope, cool site, 980-1000 ft. elevation, Warden silt loam soil
Block CS16
Planted 2016, 8x6 spacing, very slight northern slope, cool site, high elevation - 1425 ft. elevation, Warden silt loam soil
Block PV06
Planted 2006, 9x6 spacing, very slight southern slope, cool site, 980-1000 ft. elevation, Warden silt loam soil
Cellaring
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is a study in poise, defined by silky tannins and bright acidity. While its freshness and energy make it approachable today, the wine is built for significant longevity. It will continue to develop complexity and integration, drinking beautifully for several decades.
Vinification
Each block of our estate vineyard tells a different story, so we vinified them in Italian concrete to keep those identities clear. Working with Dargaud & Jaeglé, we selected specific forests and toasts that would best complement the fruit coming from our 900, 1,100, and 1,421-foot blocks. We also co-fermented a portion of Block 98 with Petit Verdot to amplify that block’s natural power. After 23 months in 76% new French oak and 13 months in bottle, the wine reflects a precise balance of site and craft.
