2021 I. Brand & Family "Bates Ranch Vineyard - Old Vine" Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon

Sourced from vines planted in 1968, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Bates Ranch exudes a classic bouquet of black fruits, aged leather, dark chocolate and dried mountain herbs. On the palate, it delivers an elegantly sumptuous texture lined with bright acidity, concluding with a balanced, rich finish braced with well-integrated, chalky tannins.

When a Cabernet from California stops you in your tracks, you take notice. That’s exactly what happened with the 2021 I. Brand & Family Old Vine Cab from Bates Ranch in the Santa Cruz Mountains. It’s earthy, floral, and incredibly balanced. You get deep notes of black currant and black cherry, layered with leather and dark chocolate. There’s plenty of character, but nothing feels pushed. It’s all in harmony. The finish is clean and refreshing, lifting the wine and making you want another glass. And with vines planted back in 1968, there’s a real sense of depth here—more nuance, more structure, more soul. It’s drinking great now, but you can tell it’ll only get better with time. A reminder of just how compelling mountain Cabernet can be.