The Peirano Heritage Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from 50 year old vines grown in Peirano Estate vineyards in Lodi, California. Peirano Estate Vineyards is family owned and was founded in 1895. Lodi is a little south and east of Napa Valley, it is an inland AVA and has a Mediterranean climate, not unlike grape growing areas in Italy. This Cabernet is aged in American and French oak barrels, mostly used barrels, with 15% of the oak barrels new. The alcohol content is 13.8%.
The color is dark, but see thru black cherry red. The nose is cherry, blackberry, licorice, cocoa powder, pepper and spearmint. This is a dry, fruit-forward, but balanced Cabernet Sauvignon, with a good touch of complexity. It starts with blackberry, raspberry, milk chocolate, pepper and vanilla. The mid-palate shows blueberry, tart cherries sprinkled with brown sugar, with a small hit of spice. The tannins are well-integrated and the acidity is balanced. The finish is full and lengthy.
The Peirano Heritage Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 is solid California Cabernet Sauvignon. That it is also a single AVA, family estate grown Cabernet that should cost $10 (on sale) or a few bucks more, just adds to the value. The Peirano Heritage Cabernet is a very well made, tasty wine, that drinks well on its own. For pairing, a grilled steak or pork chop would do well, along with a gourmet burger or a steak burrito. Lodi is an up and coming AVA and the Peirano Cabernet Sauvignon is a great example of the value of Lodi wine.
