About this winery

Rodney Strong Vineyards is dedicated to Sonoma County. The winery was established in 1959 by Rod Strong, one of the first pioneers of the modern wine industry in California, as the 13th bonded winery in Sonoma County. Rick Sayre, current Director of Winemaking, joined in 1979. Since 1989, the winery has been privately owned by the Klein family, a fourth generation California agricultural family. Rodney Strong Vineyards grow and produce wines exclusively from four of Sonoma County's finest...

See the Rodney Strong Vineyards detail page for more information on this brand

Product notes

Rod Strong recognized the Alexander Valley as an ideal place to grow Cabernet Sauvignon as far back as 1971, when he planted our first Cabernet vineyard on a hill known as Alexanders Crown. Today we proudly farm four different estate vineyards on the benches and hillsides above the valley floor, where Cabernet displays the finest expression of the Alexander Valley terroir.

Production notes

The 2018 growing season was dry through spring with well below normal precipitation. Cooler weather dominated this vintage with only two short, relatively mild heat spikes through the entire growing season. Summer days were very pleasant in Sonoma County with highs in the 70s and 80s and with August having even warmer temperatures. With everything in balance, we harvested September 26 through October 27.

Tasting notes

This powerful Cabernet Sauvignon from the hillsides of Alexander Valley has aromas of lush, red plum and dark berries that dominate the glass, while hints of cassis and milk chocolate play in the background. The dried fig and chewy tannins give this wine a strong backbone, while the 24 months of barrel aging have softened this bold wine just enough to enjoy now with a cheese and charcuterie board, filet mignon with grilled vegetables or a dark chocolate mousse. Drink over the next 5 to 7 years.