At a glance

Producer

Austin Hope

Region

Paso Robles, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$45-$65 USD (current release); older/vintage bottlings may vary

Tasting profile

Rich, plush fruit-driven style with ripe blackberry, black cherry, cassis, mocha, spice and toasted oak influence

Evolution: Primary fruit gives way to integrated oak, tertiary notes of dried fruit, earth, and tobacco with age

At peak: At peak, a harmonious blend of dark fruit, soft tannin, and evolved complexity from time in bottle

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Medium-high, ripe tannins with polished texture

Alcohol

Typically 15%+ ABV (full-bodied)

Aging potential

Very good; 6-12 years depending on vintage and storage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

4 to 7

Optimal window

2 to 8

Current status

Drinkable now; benefits from further cellaring

Current condition

Full-bodied, vibrant, young with primary fruit and plush structure

Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon is made for vibrant early enjoyment but benefits from short to mid-term cellar aging. Fruit complexity integrates with oak and tannin structure between 4-7 years after release.

Food pairing

Grilled ribeye, roast lamb, BBQ short ribs, aged cheddar, wild mushrooms

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water conservation, cover crop planting, soil and biodiversity management; vineyard solar energy use; light-weight glass bottles used for current releases; local sourcing of materials

Austin Hope and the Hope Family Wines group have pursued recognized sustainable practices and are SIP Certified, denoting strong commitments to water, soil, and biodiversity stewardship. They employ some energy-saving initiatives and light-weight packaging, though their wines' broad national/international distribution increases carbon relative to hyper-local wineries. Not certified organic or biodynamic, but above-average on sustainability given market position and regional context.