Team C&J
Gundlach Bundschu Winery, affectionately known as “Gun Bun” by its loyal followers, has long been a beacon of quality and tradition in Sonoma. Established in 1858, it remains a family-owned estate with a legacy of innovation and respect for the land. Under the stewardship of winemaker Joe Uhr, the winery continues to elevate its offerings, with the Vintage Reserve standing as a crowning achievement.
The 2019 Vintage Reserve is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Malbec. These varieties are sourced from meticulously managed vineyards that capture the essence of Sonoma’s diverse microclimates.
This wine underwent 18 months of barrel aging in 100% French oak, with 70% of the barrels being new. The selection of premium coopers—Taransaud, Quintessence, Ermitage, and Demptos—contributed layers of complexity. The integration of oak is seamless, enhancing the wine’s structure and introducing subtle nuances of spice and toast without overpowering the fruit.
Joe Uhr’s thoughtful approach to blending and aging ensures a wine that is both approachable in its youth and capable of evolving gracefully over the next 15 years.
Critics have lauded the 2019 Vintage Reserve for its ability to age, with optimal drinking recommended between now and 2035. Wine Enthusiast projects its peak from 2028 to 2038, emphasizing the wine’s capacity to develop even greater nuance with time.
Appearance: The wine presents a deep, opaque ruby color, showcasing excellent clarity and intensity. Its vibrancy hints at the wine’s youthful energy and potential for aging.
Aromatics: A pronounced aromatic bouquet greets the nose with an interplay of dark fruits and secondary nuances. Black cherry and cassis form the backbone, while cedar, leather, and graphite add a sophisticated edge. Floral hints of dried lavender and violet weave through the profile, accompanied by intriguing notes of baking chocolate and pencil shavings. These layers unfold with each swirl, making it a captivating wine to explore aromatically.
Palate: The wine is full-bodied, with high tannins that are fine-grained and well-integrated. A balanced medium acidity keeps the palate lively and ensures the wine’s aging potential.
The palate mirrors the aromatics with pronounced intensity. Lush flavors of black currant, spiced plum, and black cherry dominate, accented by graphite and a touch of mint. Subtle secondary notes of vanilla bean, toasted star anise, and cinnamon provide a warming complexity. The oak influence is evident yet restrained, contributing a creamy texture and hints of clove and char on the extended finish which is long and satisfying, leaving echoes of fruit, spice, and a whisper of earthiness.
While Napa Valley often steals the spotlight for California Cabernet Sauvignon, this Vintage Reserve underscores Sonoma’s capacity for producing wines of comparable quality with a distinct sense of place. The cooler climate and diverse soils of Sonoma lend this wine a freshness and complexity that balance its inherent power.
The 2019 Gundlach Bundschu Vintage Reserve is a testament to what Sonoma can achieve with careful vineyard management and masterful winemaking. At $142, it represents a worthwhile investment for serious collectors and connoisseurs. Its ability to dazzle now and age gracefully for decades makes it a versatile addition to any wine cellar. Whether enjoyed today with a celebratory meal or laid down for a special occasion in the future, this wine is sure to impress.
USA
Sonoma
Cabernet Sauvignon
14.9
Joe Uhr
62–68°F / 16–20°C
Large Bordeaux
1 Hour
Now to 2035
Gundlach Bundschu Winery
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