2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Pelkan Vineyard, Family Collection, Knights Valley
92 Points James Suckling
Discover the Elegance of 2016 Pelkan Ranch Cabernet: A Winter Classic
Embrace the depth and warmth of winter with our 2016 Pelkan Ranch Cabernet—a wine that delivers velvety sophistication and cold-weather comfort in equal measure. Grown in the renowned high-elevation vineyards of Pelkan Ranch, this vintage reflects a seamless balance of natural intensity and winemaking precision. Its rich aromatics, layered texture, and polished structure make it an ideal companion for winter gatherings, holiday tables, or an intimate evening by the fire.
This Cabernet opens with an inviting bouquet of cinnamon, anise, and molasses, woven together with layers of blackberry jam and subtle hints of clove and black pepper. On the palate, the wine enters gracefully, revealing notes of cherry and ripe raspberry before deepening into a bold core of dark fruit. As it evolves in the glass, flavors of blackberry compote and warming spice emerge, leading to a long, smooth finish. Fine, polished tannins support its full-bodied structure, creating a luxurious, lingering experience perfectly suited for winter nights.
The 2016 Pelkan Ranch Cabernet pairs beautifully with winter’s most comforting and celebratory dishes. Enjoy it alongside braised beef shanks, slow-roasted prime rib, or lamb stew infused with herbs and garlic. Earth-driven pairings such as truffle risotto, mushroom pot pie, or lentil shepherd’s pie highlight the wine’s savory undertones. Aged cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or aged Gouda complement its depth, while desserts such as dark chocolate torte, spiced poached pears, or chocolate truffles offer a decadent seasonal finish.
Crafted from vines nurtured in the rugged terrain of Pelkan Ranch—where elevation, climate, and soil naturally limit yields and intensify concentration—this Cabernet is a true expression of both place and precision. Each bottle reflects patience, dedication, and artistry, delivering a wine that brings warmth, richness, and timeless elegance to the winter.