Bonterra The McNab 2020 Cabernet

In the glass, Bonterra's The McNab 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon unveils a symphony of complexity and elegance, where opulent, full-bodied fruit and an age-worthy structure converge. The bouquet entices with an aromatic medley of sweet purple, blue, and black berries, delicately intertwined with hints of vanilla bean and a whisper of summer bramble. Each inhalation reveals more layers, promising an exceptional sensory journey. On the palate, this Cabernet Sauvignon bursts forth with a vivid display of blue fruit and plums, each note intricately braided with fragrant nuances of mocha, cedar, and cloves. A subtle hint of pepper dances alongside savory herbs and a distinct touch of pencil lead, adding to the wine’s multifaceted character. The oak tannins are tightly woven, offering a robust backbone that gracefully supports the wine through its extended, luxurious finish, where notes of mint tea and black fruits linger.

The McNab Ranch, the beating heart of Bonterra Biodynamics, provides the foundation for this remarkable wine. Situated along McNab Creek, a tributary of the Russian River and a steelhead spawning ground, this 371-acre property has been a certified biodynamic haven since 1996. Once a humble sheep farm, it has been meticulously transformed into a thriving vineyard ecosystem. The McNab single-vineyard bottling showcases the finest reds from this historic site, expertly assembled into a Cabernet Sauvignon-driven blend.

The 2020 vintage was marked by unique climatic conditions. A relatively dry winter delivered only half the typical rainfall, while spring brought an unusual number of frost days. Despite these challenges, the moderate temperatures facilitated an early bud break and flowering. The warmer months of August and September ushered in a series of heat spikes, hastening the harvest by a few weeks. The smaller berry size, a consequence of the season, resulted in an increased phenolic concentration, intensifying the wine's flavors and complexity.

Harvested by hand at peak ripeness over several weeks, the fruit for this blend was carefully selected from optimal vineyard blocks. Each variety underwent separate fermentation in stainless steel tanks for 10 to 14 days, with only the finest lots chosen for this distinguished cuvée. The wine then aged for 14 months in 25% new French oak barrels, imparting a medium toast that enhances its depth and complexity before the final blend was meticulously crafted.

This exquisite wine, with vines ranging from 15 to 40 years old and a density of 600-1200 vines per acre, hails from the Mendocino County appellation, specifically the esteemed McNab Ranch Vineyard. Comprising 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Petite Sirah, The McNab 2020 stands as a testament to Bonterra's commitment to biodynamic excellence and unparalleled winemaking prowess.

Alcohol: 14.2%

94 POINTS - "This potent but sophisticated wine combines powerful, focused black fruit flavors with restrained mint, toast and cocoa accents cradled by fine-grained tannins that help it glide smoothly through the palate and lingering finish. Boosted by 20% Petite Sirah, it will drink best from 2025-2035." - Wine Enthusiast

91 POINTS - "The 2020 Bonterra McNab Cabernet Sauvignon is wild yet steady and bold.This wine shines with aromas and flavors of wild red fruit, hints of black fruit, and dried herbs." - Wilfred Wong

Socially Rated 4+ / 5 ⭐

The 2020 McNab delivers wonderful complexity and elegance, with round, full fruit and age-worthy structure. The nose offers a basket of sweet purple, blue and black berries scented with vanilla bean and a touch of summer bramble. The palate bursts with blue fruit and plums braided with fragrant mocha, cedar, cloves, pepper, savory herbs and pencil lead. Tightly-woven oak tannins support the wine through its long finish of mint tea and black fruits.