Situated in the mountains above Conn Valley, near the base of Howell Mountain, the Buehler Vineyards estate vineyards are planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon. The juxtaposed topography of steeply sloped hillsides with eastern exposures against very gently sloping hills with southern and southwestern exposures hints at the tumultuous geologic past of the estate, where extensive faulting resulted in at least three distinct soil types. Not surprisingly, grapes grown on the different soils give different characteristics to the finished wines. These differences are often as great as the differences between various Bordeaux varieties, and allow the winery to blend within the variety of Cabernet Sauvignon to craft a truly multi-faceted estate wine. The wine was aged 18 months in barrels: 35% new French oak, 5% new American oak.

The aromas hint at black fruit: ripe black cherries and black plums. Enticing barrel qualities of cola and spice complement the fruit aromas. On the palate, the wine shows layers of deeply extracted flavours that only mature hillside vineyards can render. The “Estate” Cabernet is the most age-worthy wine Buehler produces and may be enjoyed anytime over the next 15 years. For less fruity, more developed bouquet aromas and a softer, more velvety wine on the palate, drink it from 2022-2034.

“The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is ample, bold and creamy. Graphite, dried herbs, lavender, blackberry and mocha infuse the 2018 with striking layers of nuance. Medium in body yet full of flavour, the 2018 hits all the right notes.”
94 points, Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, Feb 2021

“The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate has a medium to deep garnet-purple colour and expressive notes of crushed blackberries, wild blueberries and cassis plus suggestions of bay leaves, clove oil and unsmoked cigars with a hint of cardamom. Medium-bodied and elegantly styled, the palate is chock-full of bright, crunchy black fruit with subtle, invigorating dried herbs accents and approachable, grainy tannins, finishing with a lively lift. Impressively priced for the quality here, it is drinking beautifully right now, and should cellar for a good 12 years+. Stock up!”
92 points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, Feb 2021