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.

“This full-bodied, concentrated wine emphasizes toasted-oak aromas and flavours. These are amply backed with black plums, black olives and mulled cherries that smooth the sandy edges of the moderately tannic texture. Editor’s Choice.”
92 points, Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast, November 2022

“Ground dark chocolate, red chili and blackberries. Flattering, rich and generous palate with a medium to full body, rendered in a supple, composed way. Silky tannins. Easy to enjoy now.”
91 points, James Suckling, July 2022