# Wetzel Family Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (2023)

- **Producer:** Alexander Valley Vineyards
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €23
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, cherry, plum, bell pepper, chocolate, cedar

## About this wine

In the late 1960s, Hank and Linda Wetzel purchased the historic Cyrus Alexander property in northern Sonoma County, founding Alexander Valley Vineyards in 1975. Today, the estate remains family-owned and committed to sustainable farming. Located along gravelly clay loam river terraces in the Alexander Valley AVA, warm daytime sun gives way to cool night marine fog from the Petaluma Gap, allowing balanced fruit development.

## Interesting facts

- Founded on the historic 19th-century homestead of valley namesake Cyrus Alexander.
- The prolonged cool 2023 season extended hanging time, delaying harvest into late October.
- Sourced from California Certified Sustainable Winery and Vineyards.

## Food pairing

The firm tannin structure and medium-plus body require rich proteins and fats to soften structural grip, while high natural acidity cuts through rich meats and roasted dishes.

## Wine making process

Winemaker Kevin Hall blended 95% Cabernet Sauvignon with small proportions of Malbec, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Destemmed berries undergo cold soaking for color extraction prior to primary fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The wine is aged for 14 months in oak barrels, using 25% new French and American oak.