Two Jakes of Diamonds Mixed Reds Combo

Tasting notes & discussion 126

Typically $30/bottle from Two Jakes of Diamonds
Vintage 2011 from Lake County
AbV 13.5% Cabernet and 13.9% Merlot, pH 3.76 Cabernet and 3.83 Merlot
Sold by WineSmith Cellars, fulfilled by Wine Country Connect

About Two Jakes of Diamonds
There must always be a Jacob S. Stephens… or at least, that seems to be the mantra of the family behind Two Jakes of Diamonds Winery in Lake County. Founded by Jacob S. Stephens and his son, Jake II, they focus on top quality grapes with low yield, partially a consequence of the rough soil and elevation of their region. However, they boast that their site allows them to grow fruit comparable and sometimes superior to Napa at a fraction of the cost of land. Currently under Jake III’s supervision, the winery continues to be a success, providing wines of intense fruit, color, minerality, and energy.

Jakes on the Lake

TASTING NOTES:
Cabernet - “Cabernet Franc is the father of Cabernet Sauvignon, leaner and with more depth. Our rocky soils restrain vine growth, exposing berries to our high altitude sunlight, which brings out bright white cherry flavors framed by firm tannins…palate possesses a sweet core of fruit which is framed by substantial tannins and a bright mineral finish.”

Merlot - “The persistent sunny rays at the high altitude impart extravagant color and bright pomegranate aromas with no vegetal aspect. Our proximity to Clear Lake’s afternoon cooling “lake effect” preserves these aromas. [Mean]while our volcanic soils produce solid, age-worthy tannins which impart amazing ageworthiness… combination of rich fruit aromatics, firm tannin structure and lively minerality…”

TANGENTIALLY RELATED FACT to help make conversation over this wine:
Lake County, California gets its name from Clear Lake. 480,000 years old, Clear Lake is actually the oldest lake in North America. And, given the age, it is a natural freshwater lake. Largest in California. Somewhat unfortunately, the Sulphur Bank Mine was/is nearby, known as a big source of mercury. The lake itself was contaminated, but cleanup has been ongoing since the 90’s. The lake is incredibly popular for recreation and attracts a lot of animals in the region.

DRINK IT FROM/WITH (conventional option):
Standard red glasses, paired with lamb or duck for the Merlot and pork or mushroom dishes for the Franc.

OR (really-going-with-the-theme option):
One of those topographical maps with the elevations molded out of plastic, specifically one of Lake County.

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