Caliber

Templeton Gap Cabernet is a wine unto its own with Bordeaux type earthiness, spice, and ageability, but with plush, full tannin structure and depth of flavor that only California can provide. 2019 curated a spectacular expression of Cabernet with that exact balance of restraint and power, and is one of my favorite expressions from the estate thus far. The firm tannins from the Cabernet as well as some new French oak were polished by blending in some Malbec, and additional layers of complexity and structure added in the way of Petit Verdot.

Allspice, anise and white pepper pop from the glass first with an intensity that makes the wine immediately identifiable as Cabernet Sauvignon. A more earthy and incense driven side of pine needles, Christmas spice, and sweet tobacco ground the wine, but there is a ripe plumb and sweet cinnamon edge that add some much needed richness. The entry of the wine is weighty and rife with cracked black pepper and additional oozing anise flavor, but with a pop of grapefruit that provides some acidity. The palate is full and plush with tannin, perfectly integrated oak tannin assisting and providing hazelnut and vanilla to an otherwise savory profile of blackened steak and Felino. A moderate acidity carries from the mid through the finish in a non-assuming and supporting role that allows the full tannin structure to carry it weight all the way through a finish of fig and sweet molasses.