2004 Byington Cabernet Sauvignon, Chelle Mountain Vineyard

Initially, the land on which Byington Winery & Vineyard now sits was purchased by Bill and Mary Byington as a family retreat.  However in the 1970s, the Byingtons were approached by a winemaker interested in leasing a portion of their land for vineyards.  Since Bill was an avid wine collector, he willingly agreed.  Twenty years later, Bill decided to plant nine acres of Pinot Noir, the crown jewel of the Santa Cruz Mountains, and Byington was established in 1987 with that years vintage release. 

While I have yet to taste their Pinot Noir, or any estate wine for that matter, I did taste the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Chelle Mountain Vineyard, from Paso Robles.  The vineyard is situated on a ridgetop on the west side of Paso Robles in the York Mountain area.  Its positioning means the vines receive the full effect of coastal winds and wide temperature variations, but that doesn't hinder the quality of the grapes or the wine.   

This Cabernet is a deep, dark black plumb color and at 17% alcohol, it's definitely intense and concentrated.  The fruit forward nose gives hints of cassis and plumb, herbs, black tea and cedar.  The oak used is 30% new American barrels so it's not exactly subtle, but not TOO overpowering.  This is definitely a weighty, full-bodied wine with rich tannins and a medium-long, dry finish.  This is definitely a wine that will go well with red and game meats.  Its complexity and structure will allow it to age - as stated on the label, it can be enjoyed for the next 3-7 years.  I personally would enjoy this wine if it were a little lighter and had less alcohol.  But a fine effort nonetheless.

You can purchase this wine for $32 on the Byington Vineyard & Winery website.

Comments

[saverio]

Hi

I am looking to buy Byington Chardonnay wine in the Phoenix area.
Because of state law,Byington will not ship wine here.
Any help out there.
Best Regards

[saverio]

Hi

I am looking to buy Byington Chardonnay wine in the Phoenix area.
Because of state law,Byington will not ship wine here.
Any help out there.
Best Regards