Leviathan 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Magnum

Each year, the Leviathan winemaking team crafts a singular, unique blend from carefully chosen California sites and varietals that showcases the best characteristics of the vintage. These wines are built on a core of mountainside Cabernet Sauvignon, which provides power in the structure and texture. But they also pull in varying amounts of Petite Sirah, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot—which together shape a consistent balance of flavor intensity and alluring backbone of fresh, vibrant acidity. The result is a powerful, quintessentially California red.

The 2023 vintage features a varietal composition of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petite Sirah, 5% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, and 2% Cabernet Franc, utilizing grapes sourced from exceptional high-elevation vineyards across Northern California. On the nose, this full-bodied wine presents layered aromas of Luxardo cherry, dark plum, and black currant, underscored by deep notes of sweet cigar wrapper, leather, espresso, and wet slate. The savory complexity is further elevated by hints of star anise and black tea, while a touch of vanilla bean provides subtle warmth. On the palate, it showcases an elegant, earthy profile with structured, fine, chalky tannins and a supple finish that reveals impressive depth. Because of its rich structure and intense fruit-and-spice profile, this wine pairs exceptionally well with hearty, robust dishes. Excellent food pairings include grilled ribeye steak with a peppercorn reduction, slow-roasted lamb shanks with rosemary and garlic, braised wild boar, or rich venison stews. It also beautifully complements savory mushroom risottos and aged, hard cheeses like Gouda or sharp Cheddar