Star Lane Vineyard Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara Cabernet 2020 Rated 95+JD

Jeb Dunnuck Review
Rated 95+
The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Star Lane Vineyard (78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, and 5% each Petit Verdot and Merlot) sports a vivid purple hue as well as utterly classic aromatics of ripe currants, black cherries, lead pencil, black olive, and sappy, herbal, floral nuances. With nicely integrated oak, medium to full body, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish, this is another sensational Bordeaux blend from this estate that readers will love.

Star Lane Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara 2020

Structured. Elegant. A standout Cabernet from one of Santa Barbara's most distinctive mountain-influenced sites.
The 2020 Star Lane Cabernet Sauvignon captures the power and precision of Happy Canyon — a warm, inland pocket of Santa Barbara known for producing Bordeaux varietals with remarkable depth and freshness. This vintage delivers dark fruit, refined tannins, and the polished sophistication that has made Star Lane a benchmark for the region.

Key Details

• Producer: Star Lane Vineyard
• Region: Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara, California
• Varietal: 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot, 5% Merlot
• Style: Bold, structured, mountain-influenced Cabernet
• Aging: French oak for depth, spice, and refinement

Tasting Notes

• Blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry
• Notes of graphite, cocoa, and cedar
• Firm, polished tannins with excellent mid-palate weight
• Long, refined finish with dark fruit and savory spice

Why You'll Love It

• A benchmark Cabernet from one of Santa Barbara's top estate vineyards
• Combines richness with freshness thanks to high-elevation influences
• Perfect for collectors, steak-night pairings, or cellaring
• Shows the rising prestige of Happy Canyon Bordeaux varietals

Food Pairing

• Ribeye, New York strip, or grilled lamb
• Short ribs or braised beef
• Mushroom risotto or truffle dishes
• Aged cheddar, manchego, or alpine cheeses