A classic and classy Cabernet from Duckhorn Vineyards, we review the popular Decoy California Cabernet Sauvignon.
94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot from California vineyards, including estate vineyards. The wine is aged 18 months in 100% French oak barrels (40% new, 60% neutral).
Sample submitted for review. The Decoy California Cabernet Sauvignon has an SRP of $25 but it has been spotted for as low as $16, including $16.98 at some Sam’s Club locations.
Duckhorn Vineyards is a big, well-respected producer of high end wines. This Decoy Cab has been around for ages, but somehow we haven’t reviewed it yet! Let’s check out if it lives up to the hype.
From the winery:
2022 Decoy California Cabernet Sauvignon
Established more than 30 years ago by legendary vintners Dan and Margaret Duckhorn, our roots run deep at Decoy. From vine to bottle, we craft our wines to the highest standards, only using grapes from exceptional vineyards, including from our own estate properties.
Winemaker Notes: This Cabernet Sauvignon showcases rich blackberry and blueberry aromas with hints of baking spice and black pepper. Full-bodied and bursting with juicy fruit, it has strong tannins for structure. The bold, smooth finish with a touch of spice makes it perfect for hearty beef dishes or cozy gatherings.
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Production: The 2022 harvest started early, with warm weather in late July and early August advancing ripeness across key appellations. We began bringing in Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Zinfandel and Pinot Noir within the first weeks. Early September weather called for close monitoring of conditions as our crews worked steadily to bring in each varietal at peak ripeness. Light rains in late September refreshed the vines, allowing us to conclude harvest in late October. Despite a fast-paced season, the results are exceptional, yielding bright, vibrant whites and rich, beautifully structured reds that showcase the vintage’s character perfectly.
Vintage: 2022
Varietal Composition: 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot
Appellation: California
Acid: 0.58 g / 100 mL
pH: 3.70
Aging: Aged 18 months in 100% French oak barrels 40% new, 60% neutral
13.9% Alcohol
The 2022 Decoy California Cabernet Sauvignon opens with attractive aromas of black cherry, plum, spice, cola and black pepper. It’s a nice start!
Taking a sip reveals a smooth, juicy, easy drinking Cabernet with well-integrated spice plus good acidity and depth. It features similar flavors to the nose. This makes a very good burger wine. If you can find it closer to $16 this is a screaming value.
It ends dry, juicy, quite long and a bit grippy with lots of lasting cola notes and it was similar on day 2.
2022 Decoy California Cabernet Sauvignon
Looking for more of the Best Cabernet Sauvignon Under $25? Check out our giant list!
Review Summary
Decoy California Cabernet Sauvignon - Classic and Classy • Reverse Wine Snob
A classic and classy Cabernet from Duckhorn Vineyards, we review the popular Decoy California Cabernet Sauvignon.
7.3
Pros
- 89-90 points
- Big name winery (Duckhorn)
- Smooth, juicy, easy-drinking Cabernet. Great burger wine.
Cons
- Paying a bit of a premium for the name
