BonAnno Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

BonAnno Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 opens with inviting aromas of blackberry, cassis, and dark cherry, layered with subtle notes of cedar, vanilla, and baking spice. As the wine develops, hints of graphite and dried herbs add complexity and depth to the nose. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied yet smooth, offering concentrated flavors of black fruit, plum skin, and dark chocolate. Polished tannins provide structure without heaviness, while balanced acidity maintains freshness and lift. Gentle oak influence contributes warmth and spice, supporting the fruit rather than dominating it. The finish is long and composed, echoing dark fruit and savory nuances with clarity and balance.

This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs naturally with grilled and roasted meats. Enjoy with ribeye steak, New York strip, or lamb chops seasoned with herbs and garlic. It also complements braised short ribs, beef stew, and hearty pasta dishes with rich sauces. For casual pairings, burgers topped with aged cheddar work beautifully. Aged cheeses such as Gouda or Comté further enhance the wine’s structure and depth.

Alexander Valley is one of Sonoma County’s most respected regions for Cabernet Sauvignon, widely known for producing wines that balance ripe fruit expression with structure and approachability. Located along the Russian River in northern Sonoma, the valley benefits from warm daytime temperatures moderated by cool evenings and marine influences that move inland from the Pacific Ocean. This combination allows Cabernet Sauvignon to achieve full phenolic ripeness while retaining acidity and freshness.

The region’s geography plays a key role in shaping its wines. Alexander Valley features a mix of valley-floor vineyards and hillside sites, with soils ranging from gravelly alluvial deposits near the river to clay, loam, and volcanic influences on surrounding slopes. These well-drained soils encourage deep root systems and concentrated fruit, contributing to the region’s hallmark richness and polished tannins. Compared to neighboring appellations, Alexander Valley Cabernets are often noted for their generosity and balance rather than austerity.

Cabernet Sauvignon has been a cornerstone of Alexander Valley’s identity for decades, thriving in the region’s warm yet moderated climate. The wines typically emphasize ripe black fruit, supple structure, and accessibility in their youth, while still offering the potential to age gracefully. This stylistic consistency has made Alexander Valley a benchmark for classic California Cabernet Sauvignon.

BonAnno focuses on crafting approachable, varietally correct wines that showcase regional character without excessive oak or extraction. The winery’s philosophy emphasizes balance, precision, and drinkability, producing wines that reflect both vineyard quality and modern California sensibility. By sourcing quality fruit and applying restrained winemaking techniques, BonAnno delivers Cabernet Sauvignon that is expressive, food-friendly, and true to Alexander Valley’s established style.