Hess Cabernet Sauvignon: A Bold and Complex Red Wine

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a premium wine that is grown and produced in Napa Valley, California. The Hess Collection Winery has been producing wine since the mid-1970s, and their Cabernet Sauvignon is one of their most popular offerings. This wine is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor and is made from grapes grown in the Allomi vineyard.

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that is highly regarded by wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Its deep ruby color and complex flavor profile make it a perfect pairing for a wide range of foods, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and rich cheeses. This wine is aged in French oak barrels for 18 months, which gives it a smooth, velvety texture and a subtle hint of vanilla.

Overall, Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Its rich, full-bodied flavor and complex aroma make it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether you're enjoying a quiet night at home or hosting a dinner party with friends. If you're a fan of bold, flavorful wines, then Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is definitely worth trying.

History and Background

Hess Family Legacy

The Hess family has been involved in the wine industry for over a century. Donald Hess, a Swiss businessman, inherited his family's vineyards and founded The Hess Collection Winery in 1978 on the site of one of Napa Valley's oldest wineries on Mount Veeder. The volcanic slopes of Mount Veeder provided the ideal combination of soils and microclimates to yield elegant wines with rich, complex flavors. The Hess family's legacy in wine-making, combined with Donald Hess's passion for art, has led to the creation of an exceptional collection of wines and contemporary art.

Evolution of Hess Cabernet Sauvignon

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon has evolved over the years to become one of the most sought-after wines in California. The unique terroir of Napa Valley has played a crucial role in the development of this wine. The grapes are grown in the volcanic soils of Mount Veeder, which impart a distinctive minerality to the wine. The grapes are handpicked and carefully sorted to ensure only the best fruit is used in the wine-making process.

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is aged in French oak barrels for up to 22 months, which imparts a subtle vanilla and spice flavor to the wine. The wine is then bottled and aged for an additional 12 to 18 months before it is released to the public. The result is a wine that is rich, complex, and full-bodied, with flavors of blackberry, cassis, and chocolate.

The Hess Collection Winery has been at the forefront of sustainable wine-making practices in California. The winery has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and protect the environment. These initiatives include the use of solar power, water conservation, and the use of natural pest control methods.

Overall, Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to the Hess family's legacy in wine-making and their commitment to producing exceptional wines that are both sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Viticulture and Terroir

Napa Valley's Climate

Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, the viticulture of Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is profoundly influenced by the region's diverse microclimates and unique terroir. With a mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, Napa Valley provides an ideal environment for cultivating premium wine grapes. The varying temperatures and elevations across the valley contribute to the development of complex flavors in the grapes, resulting in the distinctive character of Hess Cabernet Sauvignon.

Mount Veeder Distinction

The Mount Veeder AVA, the home of Hess Cabernet Sauvignon, stands out for its rugged mountain terrain and volcanic soils. The high elevation vineyards experience cooler temperatures, allowing for a longer growing season and slower ripening of the grapes. This, in turn, leads to wines with intense flavors, firm tannins, and excellent aging potential. The unique terroir of Mount Veeder imparts a sense of place to the wines, showcasing the region's signature characteristics of dark fruit, earthy undertones, and a robust structure.

Winemaking Process

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a premium wine made from high-quality grapes using a meticulous winemaking process. The winemaking process involves several steps, including harvesting, fermentation, aging, and bottling.

Harvesting and Fermentation

The grapes used in Hess Cabernet Sauvignon are carefully handpicked from the vineyard at the peak of ripeness to ensure maximum flavor and aroma. After harvesting, the grapes are sorted and destemmed to remove any unwanted materials such as leaves and stems.

The next step is fermentation, where the grapes are crushed and fermented in stainless steel tanks. During fermentation, yeast is added to the grape juice to convert the natural sugars into alcohol. The fermentation process takes about two weeks, and during this time, the juice is pumped over the grape skins to extract color, tannins, and flavor.

Aging and Bottling

After fermentation, the wine is transferred to oak barrels for aging. Oak barrels are used to impart oak spice flavors and aromas to the wine. The wine is aged for up to 18 months, depending on the vintage, to allow the flavors and aromas to develop fully.

Once the aging process is complete, the wine is bottled and labeled. The bottles are then stored in a temperature-controlled cellar to ensure the wine stays fresh until it is ready to be enjoyed.

In conclusion, the winemaking process for Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a combination of traditional and modern techniques that result in a premium wine with a complex flavor profile. The careful selection of grapes, meticulous fermentation, and aging in oak barrels all contribute to the unique character of this wine.

Tasting Notes

Flavor Profile

The Hess Cabernet Sauvignon has a complex and layered flavor profile. It is characterized by a blend of ripe black fruit, such as boysenberry and blackberry, with subtle hints of vanilla. The wine has a full-bodied structure with well-integrated tannins that provide a round, plush mouthfeel. The wine's flavor profile is well-balanced with a long and satisfying finish.

Aroma and Palate

On the nose, the Hess Cabernet Sauvignon delivers delicious aromas of blackberry, boysenberry, and elegant expressions of lavender alongside a touch of vanilla. The wine's aroma is well-balanced and not overpowering. Upon entry, the wine is concentrated with dense, but well-integrated tannins that provide a round, plush mouthfeel. The wine's palate is well-balanced with a long and satisfying finish. The wine's flavor profile is complemented by a subtle hint of vanilla, which adds complexity and depth to the wine's overall taste.

Overall, the Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a well-structured wine with a complex flavor profile that is sure to please any wine enthusiast. Its combination of ripe black fruit, subtle hints of vanilla, and well-integrated tannins make it a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a meal, the Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that is sure to impress.

Varietals and Blends

Cabernet Sauvignon Characteristics

Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine that is known for its high tannins and bold flavors of black currant, black cherry, and cedar. It is one of the most popular red wine varietals in the world and is grown in many wine regions, including Napa Valley, California. Cabernet Sauvignon is often aged in oak barrels, which adds flavors of vanilla, toast, and spice to the wine.

The Hess Collection Winery is known for producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Their Cabernet Sauvignon has a deep ruby color and aromas of blackberry, black currant, and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. The tannins are firm but well-integrated, giving the wine a long and smooth finish.

Complementary Varietals

Cabernet Sauvignon is often blended with other red wine varietals to create more complex and balanced wines. Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot are three varietals that are commonly blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.

Malbec is a red wine varietal that is grown in Argentina and is known for its dark fruit flavors and smooth tannins. When blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec adds flavors of plum, blackberry, and violet to the wine.

Merlot is a red wine varietal that is known for its soft tannins and flavors of red fruit and chocolate. When blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot adds a smoothness and richness to the wine.

Petit Verdot is a red wine varietal that is often used in small amounts to add color, tannins, and spice to Cabernet Sauvignon blends. It is known for its flavors of black fruit, violet, and black pepper.

The Hess Collection Winery produces several Cabernet Sauvignon blends that include these varietals. Their Lion Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, while their Allomi Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, and Malbec.

Vintage and Cellaring

Yearly Vintage Variations

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its consistency in quality and taste from year to year. However, there are some variations in flavor and aroma due to the different weather conditions that affect the grapes during the growing season. The winemakers at Hess Estates carefully monitor the conditions and adjust their winemaking techniques accordingly to produce the best possible wine each year.

For example, the 2016 vintage of Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its rich and intense flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and cassis, with a hint of vanilla and spice. In contrast, the 2017 vintage is characterized by its bright and fresh fruit flavors of raspberry and red currant, with a touch of chocolate and coffee.

Aging Potential

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon has a good aging potential, and it is recommended to cellar the wine for a few years before drinking to allow the flavors and tannins to mature. The wine can be enjoyed young, but it will improve with age.

The ideal temperature for storing Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is between 55°F and 60°F, with a humidity level of around 70%. The wine should be stored in a dark place away from direct sunlight and vibrations.

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon can be aged for up to 10 years or more, depending on the vintage and storage conditions. The wine will develop more complex flavors and aromas over time, and the tannins will soften, making the wine smoother and more enjoyable to drink.

In conclusion, Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed young or aged for several years. The wine has a consistent quality and taste from year to year, with some variations due to the weather conditions. With proper storage and aging, Hess Cabernet Sauvignon can be a delightful addition to any wine collection.

Food Pairing

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine that pairs well with a variety of foods. Its bold flavor profile makes it an excellent accompaniment to rich and hearty dishes. Here are some food pairing ideas to help you get the most out of your Hess Cabernet Sauvignon:

Meat

Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its affinity with meat, and Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception. This wine pairs particularly well with beef, lamb, and game meats such as venison and bison. Grilled or roasted meats with a rich, savory flavor are the perfect match for this wine.

Cheese

Cheese is another great pairing for Hess Cabernet Sauvignon. Bold, flavorful cheeses such as blue cheese, cheddar, and aged gouda are the perfect complement to the wine's tannins and acidity. Serve your cheese with crackers, bread, and dried fruit for a delicious and satisfying snack.

Vegetables

While Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is often paired with meat, it can also be enjoyed with vegetables. Roasted root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips are a great choice, as are grilled vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. The wine's bold flavor profile can stand up to the intensity of these vegetables, making for a delicious and satisfying pairing.

Overall, Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed with a wide range of foods. Whether you're serving up a hearty steak dinner, a cheese platter, or a vegetable dish, this wine is sure to be a hit.

Awards and Recognition

Professional Ratings

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon has received high ratings from several wine critics and publications. James Suckling, a renowned wine critic, has given the 2018 vintage a rating of 92 points, noting its "dark fruit and spice character with hints of chocolate." The same vintage was rated 90 points by Wine Enthusiast, which praised its "ripe black cherry and currant flavors." Wine Spectator also gave the 2018 Hess Cabernet Sauvignon a rating of 90 points, calling it a "well-structured red."

Wilfred Wong, a wine critic for Wine.com, gave the 2017 vintage a rating of 91 points, describing it as a "dark and brooding wine with black fruit and spice aromas." The 2016 vintage was also well-received, with a rating of 91 points from Wine Enthusiast and 90 points from Wine Spectator.

Critical Acclaim

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon has also received critical acclaim from various publications. In 2021, Wine Enthusiast named the 2018 vintage of Hess Allomi Cabernet Sauvignon as one of the "Top 100 Wines of the Year," citing its "layered black fruit and spice flavors." The same vintage was also featured in Wine Spectator's "Smart Buys" list, which praised its "juicy black cherry and currant flavors."

In addition, the Hess Collection has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The winery has received certifications from several organizations, including the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance and the Napa Green program.

Overall, Hess Cabernet Sauvignon has established itself as a high-quality wine with consistent ratings and critical acclaim. Its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices also sets it apart from other wineries in the region.

Hess Collections

Hess Collections is a renowned winery that has been producing complex and elegant wines for over 40 years. They have estate vineyards high on Mount Veeder and in Napa Valley. Hess Collections is known for producing some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the world.

Hess Collection

The Hess Collection produces a wide range of Cabernet Sauvignon wines that are known for their rich flavor and exceptional quality. They use grapes from their estate vineyards to produce wines that are unique and complex. The Hess Collection Cabernet Sauvignon is aged in French oak barrels for up to 22 months, which adds to the wine's complexity and depth.

The Hess Collection also produces other wines such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Malbec. They are all made with the same level of care and attention to detail as their Cabernet Sauvignon wines.

Hess Select

Hess Select is a line of wines that are produced by Hess Collections. These wines are made with grapes from various vineyards in California. Hess Select Cabernet Sauvignon is a medium-bodied wine that is known for its smooth texture and rich flavors. It is aged in oak barrels for up to 18 months, which gives it a subtle hint of vanilla and spice.

Hess Select also produces other wines such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Merlot. They are all made with the same level of care and attention to detail as their Cabernet Sauvignon wines.

Overall, Hess Collections is a winery that produces some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the world. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality is evident in every bottle of wine they produce. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a good glass of wine, Hess Collections has something for everyone.

Winemaker's Philosophy

Hess Collection Winery has been producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon for over 30 years. The winery's philosophy is to produce wines that reflect the unique character of the Napa Valley. The winemaker, Dave Guffy, believes that great wines are made in the vineyard and that the winemaker's job is to guide the grapes from the vineyard to the bottle.

Guffy's winemaking philosophy is based on minimal intervention and sustainable practices. He believes that the best wines are made from grapes that are grown in a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Hess Collection Winery practices sustainable farming methods that promote biodiversity and soil health. The winery's vineyards are certified sustainable by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.

The winemaker's approach to winemaking is to let the grapes speak for themselves. He believes that the best wines are made from grapes that are allowed to express their unique terroir. Hess Collection Winery's Cabernet Sauvignon is made from grapes grown in the Mount Veeder appellation, which is known for its rugged terrain and unique microclimate. The grapes are hand-picked and sorted before being fermented in small lots. The wine is aged in French oak barrels for 18 months to add complexity and depth.

Overall, the winemaker's philosophy is to produce wines that are balanced, elegant, and expressive of the Napa Valley terroir. Hess Collection Winery's Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to this philosophy and has won numerous awards and accolades over the years.

Purchasing and Availability

Hess Cabernet Sauvignon can be purchased at several wine stores and online retailers. Total Wine & More carries a variety of Hess Cabernet Sauvignon, including the Hess Collection Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder 750ml. This wine has received 4.4 out of 5 stars with 25 reviews and costs $76.99. Customers can also enjoy a discount of Mix 6 For $69.29 each. The website also features a store locator to help customers find a local store.

Hess Persson Estates, the producer of Hess Cabernet Sauvignon, also offers a variety of cabernet sauvignon wines from its various collections including Hess Collection, Small Block, and Hess Select. Interested buyers can visit their website to purchase the wine directly from the producer.

Wine.com also sells Hess Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 for $24.99. This wine is a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Petite Sirah, and 6% Malbec. It presents vivid aromas of red cherry and blackberry with notes of warm cedar. The wine has received positive reviews and feedback from customers.

LCBO is another online retailer that carries Hess Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2018. This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, and Malbec. It has notes of black currant, black plum, boysenberry jam, clove, nutmeg, coriander, black licorice, and a hint of barnyard. The wine has received a score of 91 from Wine Enthusiast and is priced at $24.95.

Overall, Hess Cabernet Sauvignon is widely available in various stores and online retailers. Interested buyers can purchase the wine from the producer's website or from several wine stores.