Bedrock Wine Co. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Co., CA 2022

Winemaker: Morgan Twain-Peterson, MW
Farming: Sustainable with Organic and Natural Practices
Variety:  Cabernet Sauvignon
Terroir: From two old vines vineyards in Sonoma: Monticello and Monte Rosso, planted in the 1970s.
Vinification: Hand-harvested, native yeast fermentations. Gentle pump-overs in oak barrels.

From our April 2024 Quarterly Cellar-Builder Club:

Bedrock Wine Co. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County, California 2022
Morgan Twain-Peterson, MW (Master of Wine), is a prominent figure in the California wine scene, well-known for his deep historical knowledge of vineyards and his passionate commitment to preserving and celebrating old vines. He’s been around serious winemaking his entire life, born to the legendary Joel Peterson, founder of Ravenswood. Bedrock Wine Co. was established in 2007, and since then, Morgan has focused on working with old vines, some dating back to the 19th century, and rare vineyard sites throughout California. His work often involves rehabilitating old vineyards, which he believes are an essential part of California’s viticultural heritage. As the founder of Bedrock Wine Co., Morgan has made a significant impact by producing wines that reflect the rich heritage and diverse terroir of California.  His academic approach to farming is rooted in respect for the earth and a commitment to sustainability.
The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is born from the union of two storied vineyards in Sonoma: Monticello and Monte Rosso, both planted in the 1970s. These sites are celebrated for their distinct soil composition and microclimates, which contribute to the wine’s complexity. Monticello's lush, fruit-driven character complements Monte Rosso's renowned volcanic soils, imparting a mineral edge that enhances the wine's structure and depth. Sonoma Valley, known for its varied microclimates and soil types, provides an excellent backdrop for Cabernet Sauvignon. The cooler climate and diverse terroir contribute to a style of Cabernet that is often more nuanced and elegantly structured than those from warmer regions.
True to Morgan's philosophy, the vinification process is marked by a focus on sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention in the cellar. Hand-harvested grapes undergo native yeast fermentation, emphasizing the complex and nuanced flavors of the vineyards’ natural terroir. Gentle pump-overs are employed, which is a technique involving moving the fermenting juice from the bottom of the tank over the cap of grape skins that forms at the top, extracting color, flavor, and tannins softly, without over-extraction, which helps maintain balance and finesse.
The 2022 Bedrock Cabernet Sauvignon is a superb example of what we mean when we talk about “balance” in wine. There is no struggle between being both powerful and elegant. The palate is rich with vibrant black and red fruit notes, like fresh black plum, blackberry compote, and juicy raspberries, underpinned by cooling herbal nuances and a distinctive graphite-like mineral streak and firm but integrated tannins.  A wine like this calls for a juicy grilled lamb burger topped with blue cheese, rootbeer glazed pork shoulder, or Texas-style smoked brisket with all the fixings.   — Cara Patricia