The Setting Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley 2018

The Setting has already ascended to be one of the top wineries in Sonoma’s Alexander Valley, and given scores such as these – we expect these wines to become even harder to get over the next several years. With Jesse Katz as both partner and winemaker – this project is one to watch going forward!

The Setting is a relatively new project that boasts one of California’s (and beyond) truly up-and-coming winemakers. He’s built a global resume that includes stints at Château Petrus, Screaming Eagle, Château Haut Brion, Viña Cobos, and more. His wines routinely score in the 95++ range, and a few 100-pointers as well! 97 Points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate for any Alexander Valley cabernet sauvignon is something special, and this stands as one of the year’s most exciting new releases!

This rare cabernet sauvignon – with a total production of only 650 cases – impresses with a gorgeously perfumed bouquet of violets, lilacs, and lavender, followed by a wave of black cherries, blackberries, and blueberries – all luscious, and ripe, but above all, elegant. Cooling and spicy notes of spearmint, tobacco, and green cardamom follow, then Tahitian vanilla, and this earthy, wispy Spanish moss element. Big, but polished, with a velvety mouthfeel of super-fine tannins, and perfectly integrated acidity. Ready to go after a quick swirl in the glass, but nevertheless well-suited to aging a decade or more. For under $80 – this will compete with Cali-cabs at twice the price…a simply spectacular deal that is sure to fly in 2024!