Joey Tensley Fundamental Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Joey Tensley learned his trade among California's best winemakers before setting up in Santa Barbara County, a stretch of the Central Coast known for distinctive terroirs shaped by the Pacific. Fundamental is his straightforward varietal Cabernet Sauvignon. The region's east to west valleys funnel cool ocean air and morning fog inland, and this maritime influence lengthens the growing season, letting Cabernet ripen its tannins fully while the cool nights hold acidity and keep the fruit fresh rather than jammy. The wine ferments and then ages for twelve months in barrel, a spell in oak that adds vanilla, a fine grained tannin and a savoury spice frame, knitting with the dark fruit as the wood slowly admits small amounts of oxygen. It is deep ruby and full bodied, with ripe blackcurrant and plum, black cherry, a clear note of chocolate and cracked pepper, and a firm, structured finish. Serve at 17 degrees and decant young bottles for an hour. It is a classic partner for grilled and roasted red meat.