October 2006 Wine Tasting Notes:
2003 Koehler Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez Valley.
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A deep inky ruby color introduces this wine. The nose is centered on cassis and blackberry with a hint of asparagus and sweet woody notes of oak and cedar. The palate is composed of blackberry, currant and cherry flavors over a strong oaky backbone. The same fruit carry into the medium finish. Bold and supple tannins are very distinct but not bitter or astringent. Acids are appropriately bright and alcohol is a bit hot. |
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RWB Score: 88 breakdown 15.5% Alcohol $25.00 Retail (from winery); 800 cases produced |
This medium bodied Cabernet Sauvignon has prominent oak and tannins supported by moderate fruit extraction. The nose is a bit reserved but the palate offers better complexity. Good as an everyday wine or as a companion to meaty dishes. Should drink well and soften a bit in the next 3-5 years. |
More Koehler reviews
Detail
Sourced from 17 estate acres of 20 year old Cabernet Sauvignon vines, this wine was aged 20 months aging in French oak (30% New, 70% 1-3 yr old).
2003 was challenging to wine growers all over the state. Recurring unseasonable weather resulted in a smaller yield. Summer cool spells delayed maturation in other regions. Early autumn rains followed by cooler temperatures delayed harvest for other growers. This resulted in a leaner crop. Despite the stresses brought on by weather variations, fruit from the 2003 harvest was intense in color and flavor. Juice chemistry parameters indicated a promising vintage.
Koehler Winery evolved from a 1997 purchase of a property with vines up to 30 years old. At that time, all fruit grown was being sold to other producers. The vision of Kory and Peter Koehler, owners, was to make premium wines at affordable prices. The current line up of wines is very solid with a number of stars. Beginning with the 2005 vintage, they will release wines made by their new winemaker, Chris Stanton. With Chris's track record at Mayo Family Winery, Koehler is a winery to watch. See this month's interview with Chris.
The Koehler property is in the Santa Ynez Valley appellation. 67 acres are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Riesling, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and Viognier. Under Chris Stanton's oversight, the winery will be making all estate wines, focusing on Rhône varietals with a total annual production approaching 10,000 cases. The current 17 acre block of Cabernet Sauvignon is composed of 20 year old vines.
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5 points |
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Nose |
3 points |
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Palate |
3 points |
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Finish |
3 points |
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Tannins |
4 points |
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Acidity |
5 points |
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Alcohol |
4 points |
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Aging potential |
2 points |
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Overall quality |
8 points |
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