Obsidian ‘Volcanic Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon
WHY WE LOVE IT
- The Obsidian Volcanic Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is the signature wine of Obsidian Wine Co. It comes from their Obsidian Ridge Vineyard, located in Red Hills Lake County, at an elevation of half a mile above sea level on volcanic soil.
- The harsh climate helps the vines produce small grapes with dark colors, thick skins, and intense flavors.
- The Estate Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the distinctive qualities of its vineyard, which spans three elevations (2,300 to 2,875 feet). The upper section yields powerful flavors, the lower section offers aromatic wines, and the central area provides balanced harvests.
- Obsidian Volcanic Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is aged exclusively in Hungarian oak barrels from Tokaj. These barrels are low in vanillin and high in eugenol, enhancing herbal and spice notes, and are gently toasted.
Varietal Composition: 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Malbec, 2% Petite Sirah, 1% Petit Verdot, 1% Syrah
Elaboration: Multiple blocks are harvested over three weeks and vinified separately into distinct lots before blending. Fermentation lasts 8 to 10 days to avoid over-extraction of the skins. The wine is aged 15 months in Kádár Tokaj barrels, with 40% being new.
Tasting Notes: This wine reflects the site’s complexity and wildness, with the intensity of upper blocks balanced by the aromatics and acidity of cooler ones. Its extreme climate, altitude, and volcanic soil contribute to a wine with distinct volcanic character, intense color, and a refreshing minerality.
PRESS
2016 – 91 Wine Advocate | 94 Wine Enthusiast
2017 – 93 Wine Enthusiast “Cellar Selection”
2019 – 93 Wine Enthusiast
2021 – 94 Wine Enthusiast
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Obsidian Wine Co. was founded in 2002 by Michael Terrien, Peter Molnar, and Arpad Molnar. It is located in the Mayacamas Mountains of Sonoma. The Molnar family immigrated from Hungary in 1956. They began farming in Napa Valley before establishing their vineyard. The vineyard is on a former walnut orchard at an elevation of half a mile. It is situated on volcanic terrain made of black obsidian glass. Winemaker Alex Beloz, with over a decade of experience, ages their California Cabernet Sauvignon in Hungarian oak barrels from Kádár, Hungary. The estate’s unique climate and soil contribute to the production of distinctive California wines.