THE CALLING ALEXANDER VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON — Expert Tasting Profile
The Calling Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a refined California Cabernet showcasing the rich fruit, elegant structure, and polished character of Sonoma County's Alexander Valley. It offers a classic balance of ripe dark berries, cassis, subtle oak, and supple tannins.
Tasting Notes
The nose is expressive and inviting, opening with aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant, and ripe plum layered with cedar, vanilla, and toasted oak. Hints of dark chocolate, graphite, tobacco, and warm baking spices add depth, while subtle violet and dried herb notes provide aromatic lift.
On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-structured, offering flavors of cassis, blackberry, black cherry, and dark plum. Layers of mocha, cocoa, espresso, and vanilla develop through the mid-palate, complemented by polished oak and gentle notes of cinnamon and clove. Fine-grained tannins provide structure, while balanced acidity keeps the wine vibrant and focused.
The finish is long, smooth, and persistent, with lingering notes of dark fruit, cocoa, cedar, vanilla, and refined oak spice.
Pairing Suggestions
The Calling Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with rich and savory cuisine. It complements:
Grilled ribeye and filet mignon
Braised beef short ribs
Herb-crusted rack of lamb
Roasted or smoked beef
Wild mushroom and truffle dishes
Rich pasta with meat-based sauces
Aged Cheddar, Gouda, Parmesan, and Manchego
For dessert, dark chocolate torte, flourless chocolate cake, and chocolate truffles make excellent pairings.
Palate Experience ("Plate Taste")
The palate opens with a generous wave of cassis and blackberry before unfolding into layers of dark cherry, plum, cocoa, and mocha. The mouthfeel is rich and velvety, with polished tannins providing structure and balanced acidity maintaining freshness. As the wine evolves, subtle notes of cedar, graphite, vanilla, and baking spice emerge, leading to a long and elegant finish.
The Calling Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is best served at approximately 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting for 30–45 minutes can help open its dark-fruit aromas and reveal additional layers of cocoa, spice, and refined oak.