December 8, 2020
Ideally ripe, structured and complex, the Obsidian Ridge The Chief is an outstanding, limited production Cab-based blend. The estate vineyard in Lake County’s Red Hills AVA is over 2500 feet high planted in obsidian/volcanic rock. Decant at least two hours (important) then taste roast herbs de Provence, wild blueberries, dried black cherries, dried cedar and sweet pomegranate seeds. Structured and bright from its natural acidity, the wines attributes are cohesive and harmonious. Again, you must decant well prior to imbibement for the full effect. Better yet, cellar until 2030 and enjoy through 2040 and beyond. % of Malbec and Petit […]
December 8, 2020
The 2017 Obsidian Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon has a Cabernet Franc-esque aroma of fresh bay leaves, sage and thyme. Black currants, dried blueberries and dark pomegranate make a pointed entrance on the mid-palate. Structure and vibrancy persist start to finish, attributable to the 2600 feet high, sloping vineyard on deep volcanic soil. Bittersweet chocolate and black cherry liqueur are at the core of the wine, showing themselves on the back palate and early finish before mountain tannins take over. A meat-eater’s wine, it would make a great foil with a grilled ribeye or New York strip. 2% each Malbec and Petit […]
April 23, 2018
Deep, dark ruby/purple color stands out. Smell and taste black currants, French roast coffee, blackberry liqueur, cola, cedar, roast almonds, dark chocolate. A powerful, complex Cabernet, Obsidian Ridge “Half Mile” is both fruit-forward (the Petite Sirah helps in this regard) and very structured (i.e. firm tannins). While it does have dryness, the fruit is so ripe and concentrated that everything balances out. Drink now or wait 5-10 years. More Information Obsidian Ridge is an “Estate” vineyard by every definition except the winery is located in Sonoma. Half mile elevation (thus the name…2300-2640 feet elevation), this is a tiny production, “Reserve” […]
December 9, 2017
This is an outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon that has consistently over-delivered for the price since its beginning 20 some years ago. Estate vineyard in Lake County’s Red Hills District. High (half mile) elevation, volcanic soils (thus the name Obsidian Ridge). Deep core of blackberry, black currant and black cherry. The 2015 vintage has a more savory and earthy edge to it, which I like. Notes of bittersweet chocolate, cigar box and a musk/mineral/truffle quality that makes it an ideal dinner companion. It’s difficult for 10,000 case production wines to have soul. This has it.