Kirkland Signature 2011 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

The Alexander Valley AVA is the northernmost portion of Sonoma County, north of Healdsburg. The area has very high daytime temperatures and low night temperatures. The valley is best known for Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot but many other varietals do well. Among the best known vineyard owners in the Alexander Valley are Simi and Rodney Strong.

When you check out the medium purple Kirkland 2011 Alexander Valley Cabernet in the glass, you suspect that it will not be the biggest, boldest Cabernet you can drink. In fact, it has a palate of bright cherry and raspberry with no dark fruit or earthiness at all. The finish is soft tannins even though it was aged in oak for 22 months. While it is a pleasant drink, it falls short of expectations for Cabernet.

SC Wine Joe rating = 87

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