Maison Areion Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet 2019 Rated 94WA

Wine Advocate Review
Rated 94
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Chaine d'Or Vineyard includes 15% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc, sourced from a two-acre, dry-farmed site planted in 1987 near Woodside. Fermented as a field blend and aged 16 months in 50% new French and American oak, only 90 cases were produced. It has a beautiful, polished and classic nose of blackcurrant, oiled leather, garrigue and gravel dust. The palate is velvety and supple with a tightly structured frame and a coating, layered and impressive finish. Nicolas Vonderheyden's Bordeaux origins and mindset are on display here, as is this unique, tucked-away vineyard source. I eagerly await more wines from this small-scale but exciting project. Drinking Window 2025-2035.

Maison Areion Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet 2019

A structured, mountain-grown Cabernet with depth, savory complexity, and the signature intensity of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
The 2019 Maison Areion Cabernet Sauvignon delivers concentrated dark fruit, herbal nuance, and firm tannin structure. Sourced from high-elevation vineyards, this vintage reflects the region's cool climate and rugged terrain, producing a Cabernet with both power and refinement.

Key Details

• Producer: Maison Areion
• Region: Santa Cruz Mountains, California
• Varietal: 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc
• ABV: 14%
• Style: Bold, structured, savory

Tasting Notes

• Dense aromas of dried berry, bittersweet cocoa, leather, and mahogany
• Black plum core supported by oregano, marjoram, and bay leaf
• Earthy undertones with graphite and subtle spice
• Firm mountain tannins and a long, savory finish

Profile & Craft

• High-elevation vineyards delivering intensity and natural acidity
• Small-lot winemaking emphasizing purity and structure
• Classic Santa Cruz Mountains profile: dark fruit, herbs, and minerality
• Built for both early enjoyment and mid-term aging

Serving & Pairing

• Serve at 60-65°F
• Pairs with grilled ribeye, lamb, venison, and herb-roasted dishes
• Cellaring potential: 8-12 years