Winnett Vineyards

2009 Cabernet Sauvignon
(Willow Creek)

From the northern most AVA in California, Willow Creek, winemaker Dave Winnett has shown there is a warmer side to Humboldt County. Set inland along the Trinity River, Willow Creek is separated from the cold Pacific by multiple ridges and has the heat units found in Napa, yet evening cooling that can tumble 50 degrees by early morning. Cab likes those norms.

The Winnett 2009 Cab is big, dark red and very bordolais. Dark blueberry and kalamata olive aromas are supported by solid tannins and very well put together.

One might have to venture to Eureka or the town of Willow Creek to find this as production is limited. Might be a great reason to venture north to uncover one of the small wine production regions that seldom get credit, and credit is certainly due.

Reviewed August 25, 2012 by Clark Smith.