By: Sophie Bergeron

The 2020 Seven Hills Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that invites enthusiasts to experience the very essence of the Walla Walla Valley. From its deep garnet color to its complex layers of flavor, this Cabernet Sauvignon offers a journey through the region’s terroir and the meticulous craftsmanship behind each bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a casual connoisseur, this wine promises an exceptional tasting experience.

Wine Profile

Appearance: The 2020 Seven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon greets you with a vibrant, deep garnet hue, showcasing its age-worthy character. Its rich color is a visual prelude to the depth of flavors that follow.

Aroma: The nose opens with an enticing bouquet of dark fruits like blackberries, cassis, and ripe cherries. As the wine breathes, subtle notes of tobacco, graphite, and a hint of vanilla emerge, reflecting the careful aging process.

Taste: The wine is full-bodied and complex, with bold flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and plum. The mid-palate unveils cocoa and espresso, adding richness and sophistication to the experience. The smooth tannins give the wine a refined mouthfeel, while the balanced acidity provides structure.

Finish: The finish is long and smooth, with lingering notes of dark chocolate and a touch of earthy minerality. It leaves an impression of elegance, hinting at the wine’s aging potential.

A Storied Vineyard in the Heart of Walla Walla

Seven Hills Vineyard is not just a producer of fine wines; it’s a cornerstone of the Walla Walla AVA. Established in 1980, it was one of the first vineyards in this now-famous region. The vineyard’s location at high elevations ensures optimal sunlight exposure and excellent drainage, while the unique basalt soils contribute to the distinct minerality in the wines. With a commitment to sustainability and a focus on quality, Seven Hills Vineyard remains a leader in the Walla Walla Valley’s wine industry.

Crafting the 2020 Vintage: A True Labor of Love

The 2020 vintage of Seven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon is a product of years of careful vineyard management. Grapes were hand-harvested and sorted to ensure only the best fruit made it to the fermentation tanks. Traditional winemaking techniques were used, including fermentation in small lots and aging in French oak barrels, which impart subtle oak influences without overshadowing the bright fruit character. This method allows the true flavors of the Walla Walla terroir to shine through.

Flavors and Tannins: A Reflection of Terroir

The flavors and tannins in this Cabernet Sauvignon are a direct reflection of the Walla Walla Valley’s unique terroir. The valley’s combination of warm days and cool nights leads to a slow and steady ripening process, resulting in wines with balanced acidity and rich flavors. The minerality in the wine, often described as earthy or graphite-like, is a hallmark of the region’s basalt-based soils, providing an elegant complexity that distinguishes it from other Cabernet Sauvignons.

Aging Potential and Pairing Suggestions

With its refined structure and integrated tannins, the 2020 Seven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon is poised for aging. It will continue to evolve over the next decade or more, developing deeper flavors and greater complexity. For those enjoying it now, pairing it with rich, flavorful dishes will enhance the experience. Consider serving it with grilled steak, roasted lamb, or a selection of aged cheeses. A charcuterie board with smoked meats and olives would also complement the wine’s bold profile.

Comparing to Other Wines in the AVA

Seven Hills Vineyard’s 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon stands out not only within the winery’s portfolio but also within the Walla Walla Valley AVA. The region is known for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignons, and this particular vintage exemplifies the best characteristics of the area: ripe dark fruits, earthy complexity, and an ability to age beautifully. While other wines from the AVA may share these traits, the 2020 Seven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon has a unique intensity and balance that makes it a standout.

Availability

The 2020 Seven Hills Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is available for purchase on the official website: https://marshall-davis-wines.obtainwine.com/.

In conclusion, the 2020 Seven Hills Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that encapsulates the spirit of the Walla Walla Valley. From its bold flavors to its aging potential, it is a wine that will continue to delight for years to come. Whether you’re enjoying it now or cellaring it for later, this Cabernet Sauvignon promises to be an unforgettable addition to your collection.