Michel-Schlumberger – 2004 Deux Terres Cabernet Sauvignon

October 18, 2009

The Facts:

Michel-Schlumberger is best known for their production of Bordeaux varietals.  Their wines are crafted from organically grown grapes. The goal at Michel-Schlumberger is to allow the fruit to shine through and speak of its place of origin, Dry Creek Valley. More specifically with bench land, hillside and mountain vineyards, as part of the estate they strive to highlight a sense of place far more specific than simply Dry Creek Valley. The 2004 Deux Terres Cabernet Sauvignon is an Estate Bottled selection. This offering is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignom (90%), Merlot (5%) and Malbec (5%). Barrel aging was accomplished over a period of 26 months in French oak; 70% of the barrels were new. 498 cases of the 2004 vintage were produced and the suggested retail price is $75.

Gabe’s Take:

A big, bold and expressive nose featuring dried fruit notes leads the charge on this Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate is full flavored with lots of cherry and raspberry. Cranberry is a bit more subtle but also present. These fruit notes underscored by spice, such as black pepper, keep coming with layer after layer of unrelenting flavor. This wine is persistent, powerful and balanced. The term grace under pressure comes to mind. This Cabernet’s finish is absolutely excellent with baker’s chocolate, continued black pepper, chicory and tremendous wallops of earth and mineral notes. The tannins are firm but yielding (particularly with some air) and fine acid frames the whole package.

I absolutely love this wine for several reasons. First and foremost it’s an excellent example of Cabernet Sauvignon that shows off terrific Dry Creek characteristics. Secondly it’s further proof that world class age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon is not only possible in Dry Creek Valley, but it’s already on the shelf waiting to be purchased and enjoyed. Finally, this wine is very approachable for Cabernet Sauvignon and drinks quite nicely on its own even though it will stand up to any of the classic Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings that immediately come to mind.

Please vote for Drink Dry Creek! 

Posted by Gabe | Filed Under Cabernet Sauvignon, Gabe, Wine, Wine Review 

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