Wines Santa Cruz Mountains Mount Eden Vineyards - Cabernet Sauvignon Domaine Eden - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Mount Eden Vineyards' 2018 Domaine Eden Cabernet Sauvignon is a distinguished red from the celebrated Santa Cruz Mountains AVA in California. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, this cuvée is often complemented by smaller proportions of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, producing a complex and nuanced wine. The 2018 vintage benefited from a moderate growing season, allowing for slow, even ripening. Grapes are sourced from the estate’s hillside vineyards, where limited yields and attentive viticulture ensure excellent concentration. Vinification is traditional, with fermentation in stainless steel and ageing in French oak barriques for around 20 months, which lends structure and a subtle layer of spice and toast.

The Santa Cruz Mountains region is one of California’s most historic and unique wine-growing areas. Rugged, high-altitude vineyards are perched above the fog line, benefiting from the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean but enjoying ample sunlight. Soils here are generally well-drained and comprise shale and limestone, contributing to the intensity and minerality of the wines. The combination of altitude, maritime climate, and diverse soils imparts vibrancy, restraint, and remarkable longevity to the region’s reds. With a winemaking history dating back to the late 19th century, the AVA is known for producing benchmark, ageworthy Cabernets that rival their counterparts from Napa and Bordeaux.

This Cabernet Sauvignon’s structured tannins, dark berry fruit, cassis, cedar, and graphite notes make it a superb partner for robust dishes. Grilled ribeye or roast lamb with rosemary beautifully echo the wine’s depth, while mushroom ragoût or peppercorn-encrusted duck breast highlight its savoury complexity. For a regional touch, try it alongside a classic Californian tri-tip steak or slow-braised short ribs.

For optimum tasting, decant for an hour to fully reveal its aromatic complexity. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C to allow the layered fruit and savoury nuances to shine. While approachable now, the 2018 Domaine Eden Cabernet Sauvignon will reward patience and evolve gracefully over the next decade.