Breaux Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical

Jennifer Breaux always does an outstanding job with the events at Breaux Vineyards and this weekend's Cabernet Sauvignon Vertical was no exception. This year we were able to taste the 2001, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 vintages along with a special treat, their 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Rose -- directly from the fermenting tank.




We started off with the 2008 and 2007 vintages, directly from the barrel. These wines were paired with Beef Ribs that were also braised with the Cabernet Sauvignon and a chocolate truffle. The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout wine. It is an intense wine with lots of black fruit and tannins. After letting the glass sit for a bit I also picked up hints of vanilla. The 2008 on the other hand was much more concentrated and is not showing the fruit or the intensity that the 2007 vintage is. Fortunately, it has several more years in the barrel to help bring out its flavors.

The second course consisted of the 2006 and 2005 vintages. These have been bottled, but not yet released and were paired with pork wellington and some really good cheddar. The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon had a very dark color and lots of spice on the nose, not a lot of fruit, but strong tannins. The 2005 vintage had more red fruit and a lighter color and light tannins.

The final course was a grilled salmon served over saffron with a side of pecorino romano cheese. This was paired with the 2002 and 2001 vintages. The 2002 has smoothed out nicely as it has aged in the bottle. It has a medium body and complex aromas. In contrast, the 2001 vintage is darker in color and has more body. The black fruits and the tannins in this wine are equal partners.



As a special treat, we were also able to try the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Rose. This wine is still in the tank and hasn't been clarified yet, but even this early it is really good and I can't wait to see what it tastes like once it has been bottled.

For me, the standouts of the day were definitely the 2001 and 2007 vintages, but all of the vintages were very good.