At a glance

Producer

Cline Cellars

Region

California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$12-$18 USD

Tasting profile

Black cherry, cassis, hints of cedar and spice, subtle oak, soft tannins and rounded finish

Evolution: Fruit will mellow, tertiary notes of dried herbs and gentle earth may develop with 2-3 years cellaring

At peak: Best expression of fruit and structure between 2024 and 2026; beyond 2027 freshness will fade

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium; softening with bottle age

Alcohol

Moderate (13.5%-14.5% abv typical)

Aging potential

Good for a few years; designed for early consumption rather than long-term aging

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2026

Optimal window

2023 to 2027

Current status

Approachable and enjoyable now; suitable for short-term cellaring

Current condition

Youthful with primary fruit; tannins integrating; drinking well

This wine is crafted in a fruit-forward, approachable style with modest structure, suited to enjoyable early drinking but capable of subtle maturation over a short cellaring period.

Food pairing

Grilled steak, roast poultry, portobello mushroom burgers, aged cheddar

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that can benefit from aeration to enhance its flavors and soften the mouthfeel.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Advanced water conservation (drip irrigation, reclaimed water), solar-powered winery, composting and cover cropping, lightweight/eco-friendly packaging, use of electric vehicles on property

Cline Cellars is recognized for its leadership in sustainability in California. CCSW certification demonstrates commitment to responsible energy and water use, soil health, and ecosystem support. Frequent investments in solar power, water recycling, and carbon-reduction initiatives position the brand above average for environmental stewardship in its price tier. Their packaging is lighter-weight to reduce shipping emissions. Wines sold locally in the USA have comparatively low transportation impact and their use of on-site renewables further reduces overall carbon intensity. Some, but not all, vineyards are fully organic, so full organic certification is not universal for this bottling. Overall, this is a very good sustainability performer among widely distributed California Cabernet Sauvignon producers.