Our Rating
Livermore Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon
Some wines play it safe, and then there’s Quixotic. True to its name, Madison Vineyards’ non-vintage Cabernet Sauvignon sets out to challenge expectations and embrace a bit of whimsy along the way. This is not your everyday bottle—it’s a wine that demands attention with its bold flavors, layered aromas, and structure that walks the line between power and polish. Priced at $60, Quixotic may not be a casual Tuesday night pour, but it’s the kind of bottle you’ll reach for when you want something with character and a bit of a story. With a robust 14.9% ABV and a 93-point score from the Cork and Journey Panel, this wine proves that a little ambition goes a long way.
Madison Vineyards isn’t just producing wine—it’s crafting a statement. Inspired by the literary journey of Don Quixote, the winery has set up shop in Livermore Valley with the goal of redefining what the region can offer. While Livermore has one of California’s longest viticultural histories, Madison Vineyards believes there’s still untapped potential. The team could have planted roots in Napa or Sonoma but chose Livermore because they see it as California’s next powerhouse region. Their approach is equal parts reverence for tradition and a dash of defiance against winemaking uniformity. Drawing from their Spanish heritage and a deep appreciation for Rhône varieties, Madison Vineyards focuses on small-batch, meticulously crafted wines that showcase both the land and the people behind each bottle.
At the heart of Madison Vineyards’ vision is Tony Delumen, a winemaker whose journey is as multifaceted as the wines he produces. With family roots stretching from Spain to Sicily and winemaking experience garnered in Washington and Napa, Tony brings a global perspective to Livermore’s vineyards. His philosophy is straightforward: great wine begins in the vineyard and is refined through thoughtful craftsmanship. For Quixotic, Tony aged the 100% Cabernet Sauvignon for 24 months in French oak—85% new and 15% neutral—striking a balance between rich oak influence and vibrant fruit character. His approach is one of careful intervention, ensuring the wine speaks to both the vintage’s potential and the vineyard’s inherent qualities.
In the glass, Quixotic immediately captures attention with its deep ruby hue, shimmering with clarity. Swirl it around, and you’ll notice the high viscosity—thick, slow-moving legs that hint at the wine’s generous alcohol content and full-bodied nature. It’s a visual prelude to the richness that awaits in the first sip.
Lean in for a whiff, and the pronounced aromas don’t hold back. Dark fruit dominates with notes of plum, black currant, and black cherry rising first, layered with secondary aromas of cedar, graphite, and leather. There’s a complexity here that encourages you to take your time—each swirl and sniff reveals something new. It’s a bouquet that’s both bold and inviting, with the high alcohol adding warmth to the aromatic profile without veering into overpowering territory.
On the palate, Quixotic delivers exactly what the nose promises—bold black cherry and black currant lead the charge, followed by ripe blackberry that adds a touch of juiciness. The fruit is balanced by savory notes of bell pepper and black pepper, adding complexity without overshadowing the primary flavors. Mid-palate, the influence of the French oak becomes more pronounced, with layers of graphite and a toasty, slightly smoky edge. The tannins are medium-plus—present and firm, yet polished enough to avoid harshness—while the medium acidity keeps the wine from feeling overly heavy. Despite the high alcohol content, it’s well-integrated, offering warmth rather than heat. The finish is long and lingering, leaving echoes of dark fruit, spice, and a touch of oak that beckons for another sip.
Madison Vineyards’ Quixotic is a Cabernet Sauvignon that lives up to its ambitious name. Bold and expressive without being overbearing, it’s a wine that manages to balance richness with structure, making it as suitable for a celebratory dinner as it is for contemplative sipping. With only 355 cases produced, it’s a limited offering that rewards those willing to seek it out. Enjoy it now with a decant or let it evolve in the cellar through 2030—either way, you’re in for a rewarding experience. In a wine world that often plays it safe, Quixotic is a refreshing reminder that sometimes, a little madness is exactly what’s needed.
Vivino Score
Value Rating
USA
Livermore Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon
14.9
Tony Delumen
30 Minutes
Now to 2030
Madison Vineyards
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