# Opolo Cabernet Sauvignon (2022)

- **Producer:** Opolo Vineyards
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah, Petite Sirah
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.6%
- **Average price:** €38
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** plum, cherry, blackberry, blueberry, herbaceous, chocolate, vanilla, leather

## About this wine

Founded by Rick Quinn and Dave Nichols, Opolo Vineyards farms nearly 400 acres across diverse microclimates in California's Paso Robles AVA. Cabernet Sauvignon has served as a cornerstone of Opolo's portfolio for over a decade. This bottling draws fruit from estate vineyards spanning both the westside Willow Creek District, with its cool marine influences and limestone soils, and the warmer eastside Estrella District.

## Interesting facts

- Combines fruit from cool coastal mountain slopes with warmer inland valley sites in Paso Robles.
- Undergoes a 17-month French oak aging process with a master barrel selection at month five.
- Opolo Vineyards farms nearly 400 acres across distinct sub-regions within Paso Robles.

## Food pairing

The elevated tannins and substantial structure require rich protein and fat to soften the palate, while the bright underlying acidity cuts through rich sauces and intense cheeses like Gorgonzola.

## Wine making process

Harvested fruit undergoes a three to four day cold soak prior to fermentation to extract gentle color and structural pre-cursors. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled tanks between 88°F and 90°F (31°C–32°C). Only free-run juice is selected post-fermentation. The wine is aged for a total of 17 months in French oak barrels (45% new), undergoing a master barrel selection and blending after the first 5 months before returning to barrel for final integration.