Star Lane Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

California Cabernet Sauvignon is often celebrated for its richness and power, but the 2021 Star Lane offers something a little more interesting. It has all the depth you want from a great Cabernet, with an unexpected freshness that makes it especially compelling.

Star Lane sits in Happy Canyon, the warmest eastern reaches of Santa Barbara's Santa Ynez Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon thrives. But 2021 was anything but typical. An unusually cool growing season stretched well into October, allowing the grapes to develop full ripeness while retaining remarkable natural acidity. For winemaker Tyler Thomas, the result was a rare combination of concentration, freshness and balance.

Made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon with small additions of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec, the wine spent 21 months in French oak, 35% new. Give it an hour in a decanter and layers of black cherry, cassis, cocoa, toasted walnut and cedar begin to unfold. The palate is rich and structured, but never heavy, with lively acidity carrying the fruit through a long, polished finish.

Why we love it: This is California Cabernet with both power and restraint. It's impressive enough to open for a special dinner, particularly with grilled ribeye or herb-crusted lamb, yet balanced enough to keep you coming back for another glass. Enjoy it now with a little air, or cellar it through 2036.