1998 Simi Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon

Simi Winery is in Sonoma County. It was established in 1876 after brothers Giuseppe and Pietro Simi left Tuscany to pan for gold in California. Within 20 years they were making wine in Healdsburg. During prohibition Giuseppe’s daughter ran the winery and continued to make wine, which she stored in the cellar. Today the winery is owned by Constellation Brands, a large conglomerate with which owns numerous wineries around the world. The estate owns 600 acres in Alexander Valley and 120 acres in the Russian River Valley and produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Pinot Noir.

One of the most widely grown grape varieties, it can be found in nearly every wine growing region. A cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a hardy vine that produces a full-bodied wine with high tannins and great aging potential.