When it comes to the most Iconic Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel Vineyards in Sonoma County, the Rafanelli Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley is foremost.  Their wines are nearly impossible to acquire and are mailing list and restaurant only… What many people don’t know is that William Knuttel produces two Cabernets from Rafanelli Vineyard, so as you can imagine, we couldn’t wait to try them.  Their 2014 D. Rafanelli Mary’s Block is remarkably stunning, and it’s made in an elegant, long and expansive style that keeps you coming back for more.  At around $40, this makes my list of the best Cabernets in Sonoma County.

 

Proprietor William Knuttel isn’t a stranger to high-quality Sonoma County Cabernet.  He was the Vice President and winemaker at Chalk Hill from 1996 through 2003 and he was also winemaker at Dry Creek Vineyards through 2011.  The Mary’s Block produced minuscule yields of just 1.4 tons per are of intensely flavored, BB sized berries, and the resulting wine spent 19 months in oak.  In this realistic price category, this will compete favorably with the best Cabernets produced in Napa Valley and in fact, it did at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition where it earned a Gold Medal.  You simply need to try it.  8 barrels produced.

 

Retails at:  $45.00/btl

 

 

Winery Notes: “Mary’s 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon combines black cherry, ripe plum and blackberry fruit, spiced with brooding herbs. Oak and toast highlight and focus the ripe berry and cherry flavors, completely complementing the aromas. Hillside tannins are fully resolved, leading to a full, balanced and supple finish…”