Double Diamond Cabernet 2018- Schrader Cellars.
Allow me to digress for a minute and introduce you to Schrader Cellars, Oakville, California. A winery that has gained almost mythical status and spoken about in hushed tones of reverence in just 20 years as well as commanding prices out of most people’s reach.
Next, we add renowned Winemaker Extraordinaire Tom Rivers Brown into the mix with grapes sourced from the best vineyards in California including ‘first-growth’ Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard in Rutherford, Beckstoffer Las Piedras in Northwest St. Helena, and more recently the Monastery Block To-Kalon Vineyard in Oakville.
Established by Fred and Carol Schrader in 1998 the winery has gone from strength to strength achieving a combined total of 27 perfect 100-point scores- an unheard feat. Winemaker Tom Rivers Brown came on board in 2000 after a chance meeting while working in a local wine shop.
“Our philosophy behind the creation of Double Diamond nearly two decades ago is that our friends and fellow wine lovers should be able to enjoy a fabulous quality, well-made Cabernet Sauvignon every day without breaking the bank” -Fred Schrader.
The Double Diamond Cabernet is sourced totally from Oakville and is 100% Cabernet. Needless to say, this is an extraordinary wine and almost impossible to obtain.
Decanter reflects the informed opinions about the 2018 Napa Valley Cabernet vintage stating it “belongs in an echelon with the finest of the past two decades”.
The 2018 Vintage.
The seductive nose reveals black and blues fruits with just a hint of sweet tobacco and spices. The palate is impressive with balance and a silky-smooth mouthfeel coupled with restraint and elegance that will only get better in the years to come. Everything is intentional with this vintage and exactly where it should be. Focused, with soft tannins and the ability to coat your mouth with blackberries and blueberries with secondary notes of dark cherries, dark chocolate and spices on a long lingering finish. Amazing comes to mind as I finish my first glass.
There is a sophistication and confidence about this vintage that makes it a step up from the 2017 release and as always, drinks well beyond its price tag. Looking forward to drinking this in 10 to 15 years.
Vine to Table 