91POINTS
16¾/20
Kendall-Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon Vintner's Reserve 2020
Sonoma County, California, United StatesKJ Vintner’s Reserve label is famous for its chardonnay, but this cabernet sauvignon is something to be reckoned with. Now in its mid-30s, it is only getting better every year thanks to a deep reserve of fruit sources. The blend is 91/3/3/3/2 cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot, malbec, and merlot from a 90/5/5 mix of Sonoma/Mendocino/Napa fruit. The ageing has been extended to 15 months in a mix of French (58%) and American (30%) barrels, and 12 percent goes into stainless steel. The nose opens with spicy black fruit that spills onto a dense palate of black currants, blueberries, and cedar with long sweet tannins through the finish. A savoury Sonoma undercurrent pulls it together, making this wine a real winner. Anything off the grilled would be fine, but I think ribs or lamb would be perfect. Impressive for the price.Tasted: 10 January 2023Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:BC | $40.50 | 750ml | private wine shops |
AB | $28.99 | 750ml | private wine shops |
US | $18.00 | 750ml | retail |
ON | $22.95 | 750ml | LCBO |
QC | $24.95 | 750ml | SAQ |
Grape: Cabernet SauvignonCSPC: 427153UPC: 081584013174