23 Jan To age or not to age? Banshee Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon
The people who make a living studying wine…the experts…don’t agree on everything.
But they do agree that the vast majority of wine we buy is not meant to be aged.
Most “everyday” wines should be consumed within a year or two of purchase
so say the experts. They also state that only 5-10% of wine improves
after one year and only 1% improves after 5-10 years.
But there are always exceptions…
Of course there are exceptions to every rule. Some wines can benefit from aging.
Specifically, big bold reds such as Syrah and Nebbiolo could/should be laid down.
Cabernet ages well
Add Cabernet Sauvignon to that list.
Given the right tannin and acid levels, a Cab can age beautifully
for 10, 20, 30 years and beyond…if you can keep your hands off it that long.
It’s Wine Thursday!
Time to check out a good wine that sells at a good price
and is easy to find at the store and online.
This week, we’re looking at a Cabernet Sauvignon and asking the question…
to lay down or not to lay down?
Where it’s from
Banshee Winery’s base of operations is in the wine mecca of Geyserville.
But Banshee sources grapes from a variety of vineyards located throughout Sonoma County.
What it is
Banshee’s 2022 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, a blend of grapes from six vineyards,
comes out strong with black cherry, oak and vanilla flavors. It’s medium-to-full bodied,
somewhat tannic and concludes with a decent finish.
To the question at hand…can it be aged?
I believe so.
There’s enough structure and “chewiness” here to suggest that a year in a dark, cool space
would lead to more balance and less sweetness.
But it’s quite approachable right now.
I say put a bottle or two away and check back in a year.
Your patience will most likely be rewarded.
Where to buy it
Total Wine has Banshee’s Sonoma Cab for $16.99.
Same price at QFC: $16.99.
Ralphs carries it for $22.84. Fred Meyer’s price is $22.99.
Safeway and Albertsons both sell it for $23.99.
You can order it from B-21 for just $12.98
The price at Vine Republic is $15.98
Empire Wine & Liquor has it for $16.95
and the price at Woods Wholesale is $17.97