Ranch 32 Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

Our Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the potential of this varietal when grown in the southern, more protected parts of Monterey County. Its opens with aromas of blackberries, plum and currants with traces of mocha and violet. On the palate, it is deep, lush and fruity with balanced acidity and perfectly integrated tannins. Powerful yet supple, the complex layers develop into a long, savory, smoky oak finish. This Cabernet pairs well with grilled steak, barbecued lamb and savory stews. 

On the west side of the Salinas Valley, directly in the path of Monterey’s relentless afternoon winds, sits Ranch 32. This is the place where we first planted vines back in 1972. Ranch 32 is about highlighting the natural characteristics of the terroir and conveying the taste of the place. Each vintage, we produce small lots of wine from these sustainably farmed estate vineyards that represent the best of the appellation.

Harnessing the breezes that blow through the Salinas Valley daily, our entire winery operation is 100% powered by wind. Our estate vineyards are certified by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.

Our estate fruit was picked at optimum ripeness during the night and brought to the winery in the very early morning hours. Upon arrival at the winery, select lots of grapes were carefully sorted, destemmed, crushed, and fermented dry in open-top containers. The firm cap of skins and seeds was gently punched down several times a day. After a 10-day fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the wine was racked clean for aging with French and American oak for 12 months. 

Located 120 miles south of San Francisco lies the deep Monterey Submarine Canyon.  This submarine canyon brings a constant upwelling of cold, nutrient rich waters to the surface of Monterey Bay, making it one of the richest and most biodiverse marine habitats in the world.  This cold, upwelling water also chills the air, which creates fog that flows down from Monterey Bay into the Salinas Valley, cooling the vineyards and giving Monterey County the longest growing season of all of California’s famed viticultural districts.  This cool fog often lingers over the vineyards until mid-day.  Then as the sun warms the valley floor, the fog burns off and the warm air rises, drawing in a cool, reliable ocean breeze over the vineyards and preventing the grapes from overheating the hot California afternoon sun.  The cooler temperatures and longer growing season allow the grapes to ripen slowly and develop rich and intricate fruit flavors while preserving crucial acidity.  Ranch 32 vineyard sits in the middle of this viticultural sweet spot, and the result is perfectly balanced, food friendly wines at very cool prices.