Lot 1 2023 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 750ml

92-points James Suckling: Aromas of black fruit, chocolate, red currants, dried herbs, graphite and earth. The palate is well balanced, with a rounded mouthfeel, fine-grained tannins and a soft and fruit-driven finish. There’s plenty of generosity and complexity for the price. Drink or hold.

Cam X Lot 1 2023 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of Cabernet lots from $60+ per bottle Cabernet Sauvignon programs and features ~50% new French oak.  The vineyard was originally planted in the 70’s and a portion of this wine is sourced from the ~50-year old vines ( vines, I might add, which are responsible for putting Alexander Valley on the map in the 1990’s, albeit under labels other than the producer’s). Organically and regeneratively farmed, this amazing property produces wines with complexity and soul at very reasonable alcohol levels. We further upgraded the wine with some killer Petite Verdot, Malbec and Merlot lots from two different luxury programs, one in Alexander Valley and one in Oakville (seriously, wines that go into $200+/bottle programs) and the result is an absolutely gorgeous 2023 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon chock full power, elegance, vinous soul and it’s all here at a lovely 14.0% alcohol.

Featuring ripe yet perfectly attenuated blueberry and black raspberry fruit, dark chocolate, seasoned oak notes, and pretty purple florals. As the wine opens, more red-inflected fruit raspberry frambois and bright red cherry and currant notes complex the bouquet turning the florals sweet and spicy (like a little cinnamon red hot or pink peppercorn). Lithe and sinewy on entry with fleshy, juicy blue fruit, baker’s chocolate and fresh tobacco notes ride mineral-laced tannins in a long, blue-fruited finish. Weighing in at exactly 14% alcohol, this Cabernet features great structure, exceptional balance, and tremendous complexity. The 50% new French oak is harmoniously integrated as well. It will be drinking great this Fall while also aging beautifully over the next decade or longer.

It’s back up the truck time folks!

83% Cabernet, 7% Petite Verdot, 5% Malbec, 5% Merlot
18-months in ~50% new French oak
Alcohol: 14.0%
Bottled April 29th, 2025