Tasting: Cabernet Sauvignon v2 - California (Round 2)
Blind Wine Tasting Summary – Lynn & Scott (48-Hour Aged & Slightly Chilled Wines)
We conducted a second blind tasting of the same four California wines, but this time the wines had been sealed in decanters for 48 hours and were slightly chilled for 24 hours before tasting. This allowed us to evaluate how the flavors, aromas, and textures evolved with time and temperature changes.
About Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a bold red wine varietal known for its deep color, high tannins, and complex flavors. Common tasting notes include blackcurrant, plum, blackberry, cherry, and cedar, with hints of vanilla, spice, green bell pepper, and earthy undertones. Aging can enhance its structure, while chilling can reduce alcohol perception and highlight acidity.
Wines Tasted & Scores
Dreaming Tree Crush Red Blend (2021, $16.99, Livermore/Ripon, California)
Color: “Super dark, can’t see through it at all”
Smell: “Berries, black cherry, plum, vanilla”
Flavor: “Fruity but not overwhelming, mild tannins, well-balanced”
Total Scores: Scott - 13, Lynn - 17
Tribute Cabernet Sauvignon (2022, $16.99, Livermore/Ripon, California)
Color: “Very garnet, ruby hue”
Smell: “Earthy, sage, toasted bread”
Flavor: “Tangy, very light acidity, watery, lacks berry presence”
Total Scores: Scott - 13, Lynn - 15
Debonair Cabernet Sauvignon (2022, $10.95, Mendocino County, California) – Winner
Color: “Dark, pleasant, like a typical Cabernet”
Smell: “Light vanilla, bell pepper, pencil eraser”
Flavor: “Balanced acidity, long finish, black pepper notes, smooth tannins”
Total Scores: Scott - 17, Lynn - 16
Shannon Ridge High Elevation Cabernet Sauvignon (2021, $18.99, Lake County, California)
Color: “Dark with a brown hue, aged appearance”
Smell: “Tart, slightly unappealing”
Flavor: “Balanced, mild acidity, no burn, black cherry and blackberry”
Total Scores: Scott - 14, Lynn - 17
Winning Wine: Debonair Cabernet Sauvignon (2022)
Unlike the initial tasting, where Tribute was the winner, the Debonair Cabernet Sauvignon (2022) emerged as the top-scoring wine after 48 hours in sealed decanters and slight chilling.
Improved balance & smoothness: The wine became more well-rounded, with balanced acidity and a long finish.
Distinct aromatics: The vanilla, bell pepper, and pencil eraser scent added complexity.
Rich yet smooth tannins: The peppery notes and lingering finish made this wine more enjoyable over time.
Final Thoughts
This second tasting revealed how time and temperature can transform a wine’s character. While Tribute won the initial tasting, the Debonair Cabernet Sauvignon (2022) improved significantly, earning the highest total score and making it the top recommendation after aging. 🍷
