Aperture Cellars Sonoma Cabernet 2023 Rated 96+WA

Wine Advocate Review
Rated 96+
I tasted the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon in October, not long after it was bottled in August. Grapes were harvested October 5 through November 3. It was blended with 3% Malbec, 1% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot and matured for 18 months in 55% new French oak barrels plus 10% concrete - a new aging vessel Aperture has started experimenting with. It has slowly unfurling scents of cassis, black cherry, dark chocolate, cast iron and floral hints. The full-bodied palate is impressively concentrated without over-ripeness, and its flavors are rich yet minerally. It has an haut couture frame of powdery tannins and refreshing acidity and a very long, elegant finish. It should be very long lived in the cellar. Drinking Window 2030-2045.

Aperture Cellars Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 750ml

Elegant. Expressive. A modern Cabernet from Sonoma's volcanic hillsides.
The 2023 Aperture Cabernet Sauvignon is a hillside-grown red from mineral-rich volcanic soils in Alexander Valley, crafted by winemaker Jesse Katz. This vintage blends 93% Cabernet Sauvignon with small amounts of Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Merlot, aged 18 months in 55% new French oak. The result is a deeply aromatic, structured wine with lush fruit, savory spice, and long aging potential.

• Varietals: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec, 1% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot
• Region: Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California
• ABV: 14.5%
• Aging: 18 months in 55% new French oak
• Winemaker: Jesse Katz
• More Ratings: 94 pts - Robert Parker & Tasting Panel

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Black cherry, licorice, crushed mint, and cocoa powder.
Palate: Blackberry coulis, black pepper, purple flowers, pencil shavings, and dark chocolate.
Finish: Richly tannic and persistent with savory depth and aging potential.

Why You'll Love It

• Crafted from hillside vineyards with volcanic soils for mineral complexity
• Blended with Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Merlot for added depth
• Highly rated by top critics for structure and elegance
• Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, aged cheeses, or cellaring for future enjoyment

Aperture Cabernet 2023 is a bold yet refined expression of Sonoma terroir - designed to impress now and evolve beautifully over time.