Let's dive deep into the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, guys! If you're a wine lover or just starting to explore the world of Cabernet Sauvignon, this vintage is definitely one you should know about. We'll break down everything from its flavor profile to what makes it special, and even give you some tips on how to best enjoy it. So, grab a glass, and let’s get started!

Uncorking the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon

The lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout vintage that has garnered attention from wine enthusiasts and critics alike. Jordan Vineyard & Winery, known for its consistent quality and dedication to crafting exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, has truly delivered with this particular year. But what makes it so special? Well, several factors come into play, starting with the growing season. The 2017 vintage experienced ideal weather conditions, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. This resulted in a wine with concentrated flavors, balanced acidity, and elegant tannins.

When you first pour a glass, you'll notice its deep, rich color, hinting at the complex flavors to come. On the nose, expect aromas of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and a touch of cedar, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla and spice from oak aging. These aromas create an inviting bouquet that draws you in, eager to take that first sip. And the taste? Oh, the taste! The lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied wine with a velvety texture. The flavors of dark fruits are prominent, balanced by a refreshing acidity and well-integrated tannins. This balance is crucial, as it ensures the wine is not only delicious now but also has the potential to age gracefully for many years to come. The finish is long and lingering, leaving you with a pleasant aftertaste of fruit and spice.

One of the hallmarks of Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is its commitment to a classic winemaking style. They focus on showcasing the inherent qualities of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, rather than overpowering it with excessive oak or manipulation. This allows the wine to express its terroir, reflecting the unique characteristics of the Alexander Valley in Sonoma County, where the grapes are grown. The Alexander Valley is renowned for its warm days and cool nights, a diurnal shift that is perfect for Cabernet Sauvignon. This climate allows the grapes to develop rich flavors while maintaining acidity, resulting in wines that are both complex and balanced.

Tasting Notes: What to Expect

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the tasting notes for the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon. Imagine swirling the wine in your glass and taking a deep sniff. What do you smell? What flavors dance on your palate?

• Aroma: The aroma profile is complex and inviting. Expect to find dominant notes of blackcurrant and dark cherry, which are typical of Cabernet Sauvignon. These are often accompanied by subtle hints of cedar, tobacco, and vanilla, derived from the oak aging process. Some tasters also pick up delicate floral notes, adding another layer of complexity to the bouquet. The intensity of the aromas suggests a wine of depth and concentration.
• Palate: On the palate, the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is full-bodied and rich. The flavors of dark fruits are prominent, mirroring the aromas you detected earlier. The wine has a velvety texture, thanks to the well-integrated tannins. These tannins provide structure and contribute to the wine's aging potential, but they are not aggressive or astringent. Instead, they are smooth and elegant, adding to the overall balance of the wine. The acidity is also well-balanced, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the fruit. This acidity keeps the wine lively and prevents it from feeling heavy or cloying. The finish is long and persistent, with lingering flavors of fruit and spice.
• Structure: The structure of the wine is one of its defining characteristics. The lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon has a firm backbone of tannins, balanced by a core of ripe fruit and refreshing acidity. This structure gives the wine its aging potential, allowing it to evolve and develop over time. The oak aging is also carefully managed, adding subtle notes of vanilla and spice without overpowering the fruit. The overall structure of the wine is harmonious and well-integrated, reflecting the careful winemaking practices employed by Jordan Vineyard & Winery.

Food Pairing: The Perfect Companions

Now, let's talk about the fun part: food pairing! The lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of dishes. Its full-bodied nature and complex flavors make it an excellent match for hearty, flavorful foods. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

• Grilled Steak: This is a classic pairing for a reason. The richness of the steak complements the full-bodied nature of the Cabernet Sauvignon, while the tannins in the wine help to cut through the fat. Opt for cuts like ribeye or New York strip for the best experience.
• Roasted Lamb: Lamb is another excellent choice, particularly when seasoned with herbs like rosemary and thyme. The earthy flavors of the lamb pair well with the dark fruit notes in the wine.
• Hard Cheeses: Aged cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan are all great choices. The savory, nutty flavors of the cheese complement the complexity of the wine, while the tannins in the wine help to cleanse the palate.
• Dark Chocolate: For a decadent pairing, try the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon with a piece of dark chocolate. The bitterness of the chocolate is balanced by the sweetness of the wine, creating a harmonious and indulgent experience.
• Mushroom-Based Dishes: Dishes that feature mushrooms, such as mushroom risotto or beef bourguignon, also pair nicely with Cabernet Sauvignon. The earthiness of the mushrooms complements the wine's savory notes.

When pairing wine with food, it's important to consider the intensity of the flavors. In general, bold wines like Cabernet Sauvignon pair well with bold dishes. Avoid pairing it with delicate or lightly flavored foods, as the wine may overpower them. Also, consider the tannins in the wine. Tannic wines pair well with fatty foods, as the tannins help to cut through the fat and cleanse the palate.

The Legacy of Jordan Vineyard & Winery

Jordan Vineyard & Winery has a long and storied history of producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Founded in 1972 by Tom and Sally Jordan, the winery was inspired by the great châteaux of Bordeaux. From the beginning, their goal was to create a Cabernet Sauvignon that could rival the best wines in the world. They focused on sourcing the highest quality grapes from the Alexander Valley and employing traditional winemaking techniques.

Over the years, Jordan Vineyard & Winery has earned a reputation for consistency and quality. Their Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its elegance, balance, and aging potential. The winery is committed to sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention winemaking, allowing the grapes to express their terroir. Today, Jordan Vineyard & Winery is led by the Jordan family, who continue to uphold the winery's commitment to excellence. They have invested in state-of-the-art winemaking equipment and expanded their vineyards, ensuring that they can continue to produce world-class Cabernet Sauvignon for generations to come.

Aging Potential: How Long Will It Last?

One of the great things about the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is its aging potential. This wine is built to last, thanks to its firm tannins, balanced acidity, and concentrated flavors. If stored properly, it can continue to evolve and develop for many years to come.

So, how long will it last? That depends on several factors, including storage conditions and personal preferences. In general, the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon can be cellared for at least 10-15 years, and possibly longer. During this time, the wine will gradually soften and mellow, the tannins will become more integrated, and the flavors will become more complex. The fruit notes may evolve from fresh to dried, and tertiary aromas, such as leather and earth, may emerge.

To maximize the aging potential of the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, it's important to store it properly. The ideal storage conditions include a cool, dark, and humid environment. The temperature should be constant, ideally around 55-65°F (13-18°C). The humidity should be around 70%, which helps to prevent the cork from drying out. Also, store the bottles horizontally, so that the wine is in contact with the cork. This helps to keep the cork moist and prevent it from shrinking.

If you don't have a dedicated wine cellar, don't worry. You can still store wine at home, as long as you take a few precautions. Avoid storing wine in areas that are subject to temperature fluctuations, such as the kitchen or the attic. Instead, choose a cool, dark place, such as a basement or a closet. You can also invest in a wine refrigerator, which is designed to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity for wine storage.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Hype?

So, is the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon worth the hype? Absolutely! This is a wine that delivers on all fronts. It has a complex and inviting aroma, a rich and balanced palate, and a long and lingering finish. It's also a wine that is built to last, with the potential to age gracefully for many years to come. Whether you're a seasoned wine collector or just starting to explore the world of Cabernet Sauvignon, the lmzh2017 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is definitely worth seeking out. It's a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of Jordan Vineyard & Winery, and a true expression of the Alexander Valley terroir. Cheers, guys!