Jordan Cabernet: A Guide to the Iconic Napa Valley Wine

Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that has gained a reputation as one of the best Cabernet Sauvignons in California. It is produced by Jordan Vineyard & Winery, located in Alexander Valley, Healdsburg, California. Since the 1970s, Jordan has focused on producing only three types of wine: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and hospitality.

Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, and 2% Malbec. The wine is aged in 100% French oak barrels for 13 months, with 35% new and 65% one-year-old barrels. According to Wine.com, the 2018 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of terroir and sunshine, with a taste that reflects the great conditions of the vintage. The wine displays blackberry fruit, fig, cedar, and a note of dark chocolate over a medium-bodied palate of refined tannin and oak.

History of Jordan Cabernet

Founding and Early Years

Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine brand that has been produced by Jordan Winery since 1976. The winery is located in Alexander Valley, Sonoma County, California. The founder of Jordan Winery, Tom Jordan, had a vision to produce a Bordeaux-style wine in California that would rival the best French wines. Jordan's Francophile style of winemaking led to the hiring of Rob Davis, who guided Jordan winemaking from the inaugural 1976 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon and inaugural 1979 Jordan Chardonnay until his retirement in 2019.

The first vintage of Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon was released in 1980, and it was well-received by critics and wine enthusiasts alike. The wine's silky-smooth style became a benchmark for California Cabernet Sauvignon. Within three years of its inaugural release, Jordan's Estate Bottled 1979 Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded "Best Cabernet in America" by the Beverage Tasting Institute in Hyde Park, New York.

Milestones and Achievements

In the 1980s, Jordan Winery continued to receive critical acclaim for its Cabernet Sauvignon. The 1980 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is still considered to have some life in 750mL bottles, while large-format bottles are allowing the 1980s cabernets to retain a longer life. Jordan's 1979 Cabernet Sauvignon received a platinum medal and "Best Cabernet in America" award from the Beverage Tasting Institute in Hyde Park, New York, and Canada became Jordan's first international market in 1984.

Jordan Winery has continued to innovate and improve its wine production techniques. The winery has also been involved in philanthropic activities. For instance, the John Jordan Foundation, founded by John Jordan, CEO of Jordan Winery, has donated millions of dollars to various charities that support youth development, health care, and the environment.

Recent Developments

Jordan Winery's Cabernet Sauvignon has continued to receive critical acclaim. The 2017 and 2019 vintages are considered to be excellent. According to the winery's website, the 2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon has "aromas of black cherries, blackberries, and cassis, with a hint of spicy oak" and "flavors of black currants, cherries, clove, and vanilla." The 2019 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is described as having "aromas of black cherries, blackberries, and cassis, and a hint of vanilla."

In conclusion, Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon has a rich history of producing high-quality wines that have received critical acclaim. The winery has continued to innovate and improve its wine production techniques, while also being involved in philanthropic activities.

Viticulture and Winemaking

Grape Varieties and Blends

Jordan Winery's Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The winery's viticulture team works closely with the growers to ensure that the grapes are of the highest quality. The grapes are hand-harvested at night to preserve their freshness and acidity. The winery's commitment to quality is reflected in their Jordan Estate Rewards program, which rewards customers for purchasing their wines.

Winemaking Process

The winemaking process at Jordan Winery is guided by the winemaker, Rob Davis, who has been with the winery since its inception in 1976. The grapes are sorted and destemmed before being fermented in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels for 12-24 months, depending on the vintage. The oak barrels impart a subtle flavor and aroma to the wine, while also helping to soften the tannins.

Sustainability Practices

Jordan Winery is committed to sustainability, and their practices reflect this commitment. The winery uses solar panels to generate electricity, and they have installed a wastewater treatment plant to recycle water. They also use cover crops to reduce erosion and promote biodiversity. Jordan Winery's hospitality program is also sustainable, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.

Overall, Jordan Winery's Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its balance, structure, and elegance. The wine has a moderate level of tannin and acidity, which gives it a long finish. The alcohol level is also moderate, which helps to maintain the wine's elegance. The winery's commitment to quality and sustainability is reflected in the wine's overall quality.

Tasting Notes

Jordan Cabernet is a well-balanced wine that provides a delightful drinking experience. Here are some tasting notes that describe the flavor profile, aging and maturation, and food pairing suggestions.

Flavor Profile

Jordan Cabernet has a rich flavor profile that is characterized by a combination of fruit, spice, and oak. The wine has intense flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and cassis that are supported by subtle hints of baking spice and vanilla from oak aging. The palate is filled with flavors of juicy blackberry and boysenberry that are enveloped in silky tannins, showing complexity beyond its years. The wine has a charming weight and velvety texture filled with intense flavors of black cherries and blackberries, all elevated by a lovely backbone of spice notes from extended aging in French oak barrels.

Aging and Maturation

Jordan Cabernet is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, which imparts a subtle hint of oak to the wine. The wine is then bottle-aged for an additional 18 months before release, which allows the tannins to soften and the flavors to integrate. The resulting wine is well-balanced with polished tannins and a long, smooth finish.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Jordan Cabernet pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and hearty stews. The wine's balanced acidity and tannins make it a great match for rich, savory dishes. For a perfect pairing, try Jordan Cabernet with a grilled ribeye steak, roasted mushrooms, and garlic mashed potatoes. The wine's fruit-forward flavors and silky tannins also make it a great match for chocolate desserts, such as flourless chocolate cake or chocolate truffles.

Vintage Variations

When it comes to Jordan Cabernet, vintage variations play a significant role in determining the quality and taste of the wine. The winery has a rich history of producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon for over four decades, and each vintage has its unique characteristics.

Library Vintages

Jordan Winery has a vast collection of library vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon, dating back to the inaugural 1976 vintage. These wines are aged to perfection and offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the evolution of Jordan's winemaking techniques and style.

The library vintages are carefully stored in the winery's cellar and are available for tasting and purchase. Each vintage has its tasting notes and recommendations on when to drink, providing an excellent opportunity for wine enthusiasts to experience the history of Jordan Cabernet.

Recent Vintages

The recent vintages of Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon have been consistently excellent, showcasing the winery's commitment to quality and innovation. The 2008 vintage, for instance, was a standout year, with a warm growing season resulting in a wine with rich fruit flavors and a long finish.

The 2010 vintage, on the other hand, was a cooler year, resulting in a wine with a more restrained character and subtle tannins. The 2019 vintage was another exceptional year, with the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon being a standout wine. It has a deep ruby color, with aromas of black cherry, cassis, and vanilla.

Overall, Jordan Winery's Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to the winery's commitment to quality and excellence. Whether you are looking for library vintages or recent vintages, Jordan Cabernet is sure to impress with its unique characteristics and exceptional taste.

Jordan Cabernet in the Market

Purchasing and Availability

Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a highly sought-after wine that is known for its balance, quality, and aging potential. It is widely available in the market through a number of channels, including wine shops, online retailers, and the winery's own website. The wine is priced in the premium range, with retail prices ranging from $50 to $100 per bottle, depending on the vintage and the size of the bottle.

The wine is also available in a number of formats, including standard 750ml bottles, magnums, and even larger formats. This makes it a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts who are looking to add a high-quality and collectible wine to their collection.

Investment and Collectability

Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that is known for its aging potential and collectability. The wine is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, who are willing to pay a premium for well-aged library vintages. The wine has also been known to appreciate in value over time, making it a potential investment opportunity for those who are looking to invest in wine.

The Jordan Estate Rewards program is a popular way for collectors to acquire library vintages of Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon. Members of the program have access to limited-release wines, library vintages, and other exclusive benefits, making it a popular choice for serious collectors.

In conclusion, Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a premium wine that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its balance, quality, and aging potential make it a popular choice for those who are looking for a high-quality and collectible wine. With its availability through a number of channels and its potential for appreciation in value, it is a wine that is worth considering for both enjoyment and investment.

Community and Charitable Work

Jordan Winery is not just known for producing high-quality wines but also for its community involvement and charitable initiatives. The winery is committed to sustainability and has implemented several environmentally-friendly practices to reduce its carbon footprint.

Jordan Winery Community Involvement

Jordan Winery is actively involved in the local community and supports several non-profit organizations. The winery has partnered with the Boys and Girls Club of Sonoma County to provide mentorship programs and educational opportunities for underprivileged children. Jordan Winery also supports the Redwood Empire Food Bank, which helps combat poverty and hunger in the local community.

John Jordan Foundation Initiatives

John Jordan, the owner of Jordan Winery, established the John Jordan Foundation in 2012 to support various charitable initiatives. The foundation is committed to fighting poverty and improving the lives of those in need. One of the foundation's initiatives is the "A Place to Call Home" program, which provides affordable housing for low-income families. The foundation has also established the "Jordan Winery Scholarship Fund," which provides financial assistance to students pursuing a career in hospitality.

In addition to these initiatives, the John Jordan Foundation has also partnered with several organizations to support environmental sustainability. The foundation has worked with the Sonoma Land Trust to protect and preserve local wildlife habitats. The foundation has also partnered with the Sonoma Ecology Center to promote sustainable farming practices and protect the local watershed.

Overall, Jordan Winery and the John Jordan Foundation are committed to making a positive impact on the community and the environment. Through their various initiatives, they are making a difference in the lives of those in need and promoting a more sustainable future.

Comparative Analysis

Jordan vs. Other California Cabernets

When it comes to California Cabernets, Jordan Cabernet stands out for its quality, elegance, and finesse. Compared to other California Cabernets, Jordan Cabernet is known for its restraint, balance, and age-worthiness. While some California Cabernets can be over-extracted, high in alcohol, and lacking in acidity, Jordan Cabernet offers a more refined and nuanced expression of the varietal.

In terms of region, Jordan Cabernet is sourced from the Alexander Valley in Sonoma County, which is known for its cooler climate and well-draining soils. This terroir gives Jordan Cabernet its signature style, characterized by its dark fruit flavors, silky tannins, and subtle oak influence.

Global Perspective

While Jordan Cabernet is a standout among California Cabernets, it also holds its own on the global stage. In blind tastings, Jordan Cabernet has been known to hold its own against some of the world's most prestigious Cabernets from regions like Bordeaux, Tuscany, and Rioja.

In terms of style, Jordan Cabernet can be compared to some of the more elegant and restrained expressions of Cabernet from Italy and Spain. These wines are known for their balance, acidity, and food-friendliness, which are all qualities that can be found in Jordan Cabernet.

Overall, Jordan Cabernet is a wine that offers both quality and value, making it a top choice for both casual and serious wine drinkers alike.

Consumer Insights

Tasting Experiences

Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its elegance, finesse, and balance. Consumers often describe the wine as having a silky palate with beautiful structure. The wine's earthiness complements grilled or roasted dishes such as coq au vin, lamb ragu, or roasted salmon with miso. The wine's acidity and spice notes make it a perfect match for vegetarian dishes as well.

The finish of Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is often described as long and lingering, with a smooth texture. Consumers appreciate the wine's complexity and depth, which is attributed to the quality of the vintage and the winemaker's expertise.

Reviews and Ratings

Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon has received high praise from wine critics and enthusiasts alike. The 2019 vintage has been described as a "decadent wine for food pairing" by Wine.com [1]. Wine Enthusiast gave the 2018 vintage a rating of 93 points, noting its "rich, full-bodied texture" and "balanced acidity" [2].

Consumers have also given Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon high ratings, with many praising the wine's quality and consistency. The 2012 vintage, in particular, has received high ratings and is considered one of the most complex Jordan Cabernet Sauvignons to date [3].

Overall, Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that consistently delivers on quality, with a balance of acidity and complexity that makes it a favorite among wine enthusiasts.

[1] https://www.wine.com/product/jordan-cabernet-sauvignon-2019/1543738 [2] https://www.wineenthusiast.com/buying-guide/jordan-2018-cabernet-sauvignon-alexander-valley/ [3] https://spitbucket.net/2018/07/13/60-second-wine-review-jordan-cabernet-sauvignon/