The Centralas Cabernet is fermented with ambient cultures, and the wine spends three years in French barriques, about one-fifth new. The winery admirably discloses process and contents on the label: “Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, water, tartaric acid, SO2. Aged in oak. All other ingredients naturally occurring.”
They have chosen Burgundy glass for their Cabernet, an unexpected but, in this case, smart choice; the contents are more reminiscent of a cheerful Pinot than a brooding Cab. The color is limpid raspberry with a clear rim, and the aromatics suggest high-toned red and blueberry fruit, plus that hit of cedar I want in Cabernet. The palate is juicy, awash in tangy red fruits and accents of juniper berries and fresh thyme. The tannins are drying, astringent, but not aggressive.
Overall it’s an amiable, accessible Cabernet, well priced.
2017 Centralas Wine Cabernet Sauvignon I, Nomad Mendocino
14.3% ABV | $32 (sample)
