Ideally situated at the easternmost end of the Santa Ynez Valley, Star Lane is home to both the warmest
and the highest-elevation vineyards in the appellation. Star Lane’s vineyard blocks climb from the canyon
floor to bench land and mountaintop sites above. The varied elevations, exposures and soil types
contribute essential elements to this blend of Cabernet, Cabernet Franc and Petite Verdot. Featuring
aromas of black currant, brandied cherry, graphite and tarragon, it is medium- to full-bodied with
Bordeaux-like elegance super- imposed over succulent red and black fruit flavors. Subtle nuances of toasty
vanilla, smoke, caramel and dried Satsuma rind add complexity.
Cherry, blackberry, cassis, caramel, tangerine and vanilla.
The Santa Ynez Valley is an American Viticultural Area (AVA) located 35 miles northwest of the city of
Santa Barbara, California. It is part of the larger Central Coast AVA and contains the greatest concentration
of wineries in Santa Barbara County. The west end of this 40-milelong valley is defined by the cool coastal
influences of the Pacific Ocean. But temperatures and elevations increase as you move inland, resulting in
considerably warmer conditions that encourage red Bordeaux varietals to flourish. This Star Lane Cabernet
Sauvignon blend was made possible by Jim and Mary Dierberg. The Star Lane story began in 1996 when Jim
and Mary’s fascination with fine wine led them to California. They already owned a historic winery in their
home state of Missouri, but they fell in love with a 4,000-acre ranch in the back country of Santa Barbara
County. And Star Lane was born.
With more finesse than most California Cabernets, the 2006 Star Lane still brims with powerful, rich flavors
and youthful exuberance. As such, it appreciates sharing the table with rich, simply prepared dishes like
lamb chops or New York steak. The smoky, seared quality that comes from grilling proteins over charcoal
builds a bridge between food and wine. For an easy solution, you could always make my Open-Face Steak
Sandwich.
Jim was raised in a farming tradition. At age 11, he won the St. Louis County Fair with his champion pig,
Buster.
