2022 The Flag Cabernet Sauvignon
95 pts, Decanter | 95 pts, International Wine Report | 94 pts, The Wine Independent | 94 pts, Jeb Dunnuck | 94 pts, The Wine Advocate
2022 THE FLAG CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Introducing our newest Cabernet Sauvignon made from the select blocks and barrels that represent the pinnacle of wines Bell Mountain Vineyard produces. The Flag is named in honor of Ames’ great-great-grandfather, John Gilson Howell, who owned and published the Russian River Flag newspaper in Healdsburg in the 1860-1870s. This wine epitomizes the bedrock of the idealism and commitment for preserving Bell Mountain and the peak of wines this land produces for generations. To honor the wine and our history, each bottle is adorned with the reprint of the original publisher’s editorial on the first edition that Ames’ great-great-grandfather printed on November 19, 1868.
The 2022 Flag Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a vibrant blend of blackberry and raspberry, complemented by savory notes of walnuts, fresh herbs, and black tea. Rich and full-bodied, it showcases impressive palate weight and a balanced acidity that leads to a finish that lingers long after the last sip. Dense layers of black currant, baking chocolate, and tomato leaf evolve alongside fresh herbs and the distinct aroma of petrichor. A touch of licorice, vanilla, and burnt sugar adds complexity, while black raspberry and roasted meat round out the flavor profile. The wine’s plump tannins and notes of toasted nuts and German chocolate cake create an indulgent, multi-faceted experience. Big, complex, and beautifully balanced, this wine is both powerful and pretty. Pair with rich, hearty dishes like braised short ribs, roasted bone marrow, or a decadent steak au poivre. Pair with any simple dark chocolate dessert to really
Vintage
The 2022 vintage hit records in so many ways. We had several rounds of severe frost including in areas where we normally don’t see frost. We had our latest frost on record during the middle of May which caused a significant crop loss. Nevertheless, we had high hopes for the vintage as we got closer to fall. During September we endured a record heat wave in which we had more than 8 days above 100 degrees with one day topping out at 119 degrees. Thankfully our canopies fared this weather well. 2022 is overdelivering on aromatic intensity, full flavor, and gentle tannins. Everything ripened a little earlier and we finished off the season with the smallest and earliest harvest on record, though we think perhaps some of the tastiest.