May 20, 2023 - For a 16 year old wine this is still going strong. Scherrer is known for balance in his wines and this is no exception. The tannins have melded very nicely and the black cherry and blue fruits are still showing nicely. This has a good bite of acidity for a CA cabernet, definitely not jammy, which makes it very food friendly. I do have one more of these but it seems to be in its prime now and I don't think I'll keep the other bottle too much longer.
May 24, 2022 - Really nice cab in a more reserved California style. Tannins fully resolved but fruit (blackberry) still going strong. Not overly complex and finish medium length. Impressed how well it's structurally held up but don't think it will improve with more age. Drinking really well.
May 23, 2020 - Great
October 12, 2019 - Just an amazing '07 Alexander Valley cab. Elegant and complex, still singing with layers of primary fruit mainly black and red cherry with a hint of chocolate. Tannins are fully resolved and silken and the acidity is bright. This went great with a grilled filet.
February 19, 2017 - A higher rating yet, but for the pruned nose. However, if you look back at my historical notes of Fred's wines, you'll recall that he has so much confidence in the integrity of his process that he is equally comfortable pouring you a taste from a bottle just opened, as one that's sat opened on his tasting table from earlier in the week. My point is that the prune did not carry into the flavors in any way. Amazing balance with the telltale Alexander Valley profile that I remember not being able to get enough of; always looking for another take on the terroir. I miss these experiences!
February 27, 2016 - Surprisingly youthful, considering the age. A great example of how the right amount of acidity, in harmony with other components, will keep things lively. A bit one dimensional as far as aroma/flavor, otherwise this scores 94 in my book. Still very expressive though, and very easy to drink. Perhaps it just needs more time.
November 6, 2015 - very clean. mid-weight cab, lots of cherry cordial framed with some baking spices and licorice. great balance and acidity. Not overly complex, but very well made. Distinctly Californian without being Napa jam.
August 2, 2013 - 07 Alexander Valley Cabernet - Spice box nose, black licorice, black fruit on the palate, chalk, red/black berry, acid lift. Wonderfully long and lean. Really liked this.
July 15, 2013 - High tonned cherry fruit, reminds me of Seven Hills in Walla Walla. Must be something with light toast oak and cabernet. Or maybe sandy soils? Brighter acidity and precise fruit. I like IT! Ahh shoot... its $40. Well, it deserves to be.
June 8, 2013 - A very respectable Alexander Valley cab that delivers a lot of flavor and much more early approachability than the Scherrer Vineyard designate cab. The second half of the bottle held up well in the fridge for 5 days.