At a glance

Producer

Bonanza Winery (Wagner Family of Wine)

Region

California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$15-$22 (750ml)

Tasting profile

Lush and juicy with ripe black cherry, plum, cassis, notes of vanilla and subtle oak. Polished tannins, smooth finish.

Evolution: Fruit and oak-derived sweetness dominate initially; over 1-3 years, may gain some softness but will not significantly develop tertiary characteristics.

At peak: Expect best balance of fruit, oak, and smoothness in the first 2-3 years after purchase.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Moderate, soft

Alcohol

Medium-high (typically 13.5-14.5%)

Aging potential

Low to moderate; not intended for aging beyond 5 years.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

1 to 3

Optimal window

5

Current status

Ready to drink now; this non-vintage, value-driven Cabernet is crafted for immediate enjoyment, not for extended cellaring.

Current condition

Fresh, fruit-forward, and approachable; best enjoyed within a few years of purchase.

As a non-vintage Cabernet from California blended for immediate appeal, this wine peaks early—maximum freshness, expressive fruit, and oak integration are best within 1-3 years of release. While it can hold up for 4-5 years, aging will not improve complexity and may result in faded fruit and structure.

Food pairing

Excellent with grilled meats, BBQ ribs, burgers, roast chicken, pizza with hearty toppings, or aged cheddar. Also pairs with mushroom dishes and meat-based pasta.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (15-30 minutes) — Short decanting helps soften any youthful notes and allows the wine’s fruit character to open up.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 5/10

No formal sustainability reporting for Bonanza. Large-scale sourcing, but the Wagner Family has experimented with some water/energy efficiency in other projects.

Bonanza Cabernet Sauvignon is produced by the Wagner Family (of Caymus fame) with grapes sourced from multiple California regions. The brand prioritizes consistency and affordability over strict sustainability initiatives. While California requires certain environmental standards, Bonanza does not hold special organic or sustainable certification. Relative to boutique producers with closed-loop/organic practices, the sustainability score is modest, reflecting the focus on volume and broad distribution rather than eco-prioritization.