Many of us fondly recall a time when music albums consisted of an “A-Side” and a “B-Side”. Like generations of fans, B Side was inspired by the creativity and innovation found on the flip-side of their favorite albums, and chose to create a wine that is a reflection of those hidden treasures. B Sides are rare, unconventional, often less marketed releases. They are produced from the reverse, or sharply contrasted side of old-school music albums and in this case, renowned wine regions. Stylistically these releases are a departure from the status quo, often preferred by those “in-the-know,” and the few lucky enough to stumble across them. The inaugural release of B Side Cabernet Sauvignon features grapes from vineyards on the flip-side of Napa Valley. These vineyards are nestled in rural areas or rolling hills, just a few miles from of the high-priced glamour wineries featured along Highway 29.
For the 2005 vintage, these growing areas benefited from outstanding harvest conditions. According to the Napa Valley Vintner's, "Warm, nearly perfect conditions arrived with an Indian Summer making for a later than average harvest, providing winemakers with fruit with extended hang and ultimately realizing excellent sugar development and balanced acids..." This dark brick red colored wine has classic Bordeaux aromas of currant and ripe plum with pencil lead and earthy, clay notes followed by scents of new leather and black olives. The palate is very supple with a core of cassis and black cherry fruit, layered with hints of wild strawberry and yellow plum. The finish is silky with refined French oak flavors intermingled with vanilla and subtle oak char. This wine is the quintessential pairing with braised short ribs with horseradish and parsnip mashed potatoes. Try it with Miso glazed black cod over steamed rice with spring onion dim sum, or arugula salad with fresh strawberries, goat cheese and black pepper.
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"Holds its own in a tasting of Napa Cabs that cost, three, four, even five times as much. Made with a drop of Petite Sirah, it’s dry, firmly tannic and complex, with black currant, beef jerky, miso, pepper spice and smoky oak flavors. Best now and for a couple years. — S.H. (12/31/2008)" -Rated 91, Wine Enthusiast
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