Wine Maker: Silver Palm

Vintage: 2012

Wine Name/Vineyard: Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine Category: Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: North Coast

State or country: California

Price: $17.99

ABV: 13.5%

Cases produced: N/A

The Barrel Cellar Score:  89 points

Review date: April 7, 2021

About the Winemaker: Silver Palm Winery sources its grapes from various vineyards in California’s north coast region. The cool Pacific air, plentiful sunshine, and nearly perfect drainage in the vineyards offer the grapes a head start when it comes to producing quality wine. Silver Palm’s head winemaker is Matt Smith, Matt has a record of consistently crafting well regarded wines.

Color: Deep Maroon

Nose: Cherry cola, vanilla, and floral notes

Taste: Strawberry preserves, black olive, and oak. Finish: Sustained with notes of cherry, dried herbs, and a touch of tobacco.

Assessment: Soft tannins and bold flavors are good descriptors for this value class California Cabernet. It is fruit forward, silky, and heavily influenced by the oak it was aged in. It is set apart from other north coast Cabs in that it isn’t “jammy” in character and has just a touch of bright acidity, which brings some welcome balance. I can say I’ve enjoyed a few bottles of this wine from different vintages, and it is consistent in quality and character across each of them.

In short, Silver Palm Cabernet is a pleasant and easy drinker and it at under $20 this is a buy by the case sort of wine. You won’t regret it. Ready to drink now.

The Barrel Cellar Rating.  89 points. 

Pairing recommendation: Grilled venison or beef stew.