Name: Stel+Mar - Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety: Sauvignon
Country/Region: California, Central Valley, Lodi
Year/Price: 2022, $20
Critique Review: Light to medium bodied, lots of blackberry, some espresso, spices, some chocolate, surprising amount of tannins towards the end... light and easy to handle despite some complexity
Reference Flavors: Black Cherry, Black Currant, Plum, Cedar, Spice, Vanilla, Oak, Caramel, Raspberry
My Review: On the eyes, this Cabernet Sauvignon is a deep ruby red, with a strong viscosity. On the nose I get black currant and a hint of plum along with a cedary spiciness. On the tongue I get a rich, balanced, savory red with a slight tannic finish.
This wine’s bold structure makes it an excellent pairing choice rather than a casual sipper. The salty caramel and briny notes add depth, enhancing the richness of the prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella while complementing the herbaceous basil. The wine’s tannins and acidity cut through the creaminess, creating a well-rounded contrast.
With the butterfly shrimp, the wine’s dark fruit and cedar spice meet the shrimp’s delicate sweetness and crispy texture. The brininess in both the wine and seafood ties the pairing together, though the Cabernet’s strength might slightly overshadow the shrimp on its own. Overall, this is a solid, well-balanced Cabernet that truly shines when paired with the right foods.
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