# Lone Horseman Cabernet Sauvignon (2020)

- **Producer:** Lionstone International
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, blackberry, plum, liquorice, herbaceous, vanilla, toast, chocolate, cedar, leather, forest floor

## About this wine

Lone Horseman Cabernet Sauvignon is a tribute to the rugged, pioneering spirit of California's high-altitude grape growers. Sourced from the prestigious Red Hills Lake County AVA, this wine is shaped by its unique mountain terroir. The vineyards sit at elevations between 1,350 and 2,600 feet above sea level along the southwest edge of Clear Lake. Here, the vines are exposed to intense UV light and planted in iron-rich, red volcanic soils littered with black obsidian glass and quartz. This challenging environment naturally restricts yields, forcing the vines to produce small, highly concentrated berries. Distributed through exclusive direct-to-consumer networks and boutique cellars, Lone Horseman represents the bold, structured side of North Coast mountain viticulture.

## Interesting facts

- The vineyards are planted in red volcanic soils rich in black obsidian glass, which forces vines to dig deep for nutrients.
- At elevations up to 2,600 feet, the grapes receive 10% more direct UV light, resulting in thicker skins and higher tannin concentration.
- The name Lone Horseman pays tribute to the rugged, pioneer spirit of Northern California's high-altitude farmers.

## Food pairing

This full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon requires rich, protein-heavy dishes to bind with its structured mountain tannins. The high alcohol and intense dark fruit profile pair beautifully with grilled and roasted meats, where the char and fat soften the wine's grip. Additionally, the wine's natural acidity cuts through rich sauces, while its subtle oak spices complement earthy elements like mushrooms and dark chocolate.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Lone Horseman Cabernet Sauvignon focuses on preserving the intense fruit character and structural power of mountain-grown grapes. Harvested at peak maturity, the grapes undergo careful sorting and destemming. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vessels to maintain primary dark fruit vibrancy and freshness. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels to integrate its firm mountain tannins, soften the structure, and introduce complex layers of baking spices, toast, and vanilla before final blending and bottling.