Lucas & Lewellen Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Ynez Valley 2012
The Data
Country USA
Appellation Santa Ynez Valley
Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon
Retail Price $30
ABV 14.5%
Score 4 Stars/93 points
In the Glass
Appearance
Deep, brilliant ruby red color.
Aromatics
The nose reveals a dense Cabernet with waves of ripe blackberry, raspberry and black cherry with hints of cassis, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Flavor
The palate echoes the nose offering a rich and dense fruit core with accents of mineral, earth, brown baking spices, and oak.
Intensity & Texture
Wonderfully rich and full while being dry and ideally balanced with vibrant acidity and moderate tannins.
Cool Factor
I have had my share of disappointing Cabs from this region but this is a wine that will make you a believer being balanced, well-proportioned, and stylish.
Value Grade
In 2015 $30 for upper-tier Cabernet is right on target and in fact, it's a value.
Analysis
Made with a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 7% Malbec, 3% Petite Verdot from their Valley View Vineyard located in the Santa Barbara appellation on a slope rising above the Santa Ynez vineyard. The wine is matured for 24 months in French oak. Fewer than 800 cases of this wine were made. The wines from Lucas & Lewellen show perfectly grown fruit and skilled winemaking resulting in perfectly balanced wines with style and grace.
How to Enjoy
This is a rare California Cabernet that I would enjoy with nothing but a glass. Great food pairings for me include roasted leg of lamb or any braised meat dish.