Like our benchmark Schrader Cellars Cabernets, Double Diamond, crafted by acclaimed winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown, carries on the tradition of earning critical acclaim and drawing passionate fans the world-over, using the finest techniques and natural resources available.
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"The 2022 Double Diamond Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted from the younger vines of the To Kalon vineyard, aged in 50% new oak and once-used Schrader barrels. This label focuses on blocks in the Mondavi To Kalon portion that don't make the cut for the primary Schrader wines. Vineyard manager Blake Wood emphasises identifying blocks within areas like the 'P Neighborhood' of the To Kalon site, divided into distinct parcels. The wine exhibits a bright and vibrant profile, leaning toward red-fruited characteristics with crunchy black cherry and ripe plum notes. Rich toffee and caramel spices add complexity, while firm, structured tannins support the full-bodied richness. It is a compelling and layered expression of Oakville."
— Decanter, October 29, 2024
"Creamy and polished, this red delivers an alluring wave of plum and boysenberry compote flavors laced with textbook Oakville notes of sweet bay, menthol and warm earth. Totally ready to go. Drink now through 2036."
- Wine Spectator, November 1, 202495
"100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 54% new French oak and 46% second-use Schrader Darnajou French oak. The Oakville Cabernet from Double Diamond delivers greater power and a more intense structure than Proprietary Red. It is a slightly more serious wine with a brooding, inky character that commands attention. The tannins are long and finely grained, coating the palate in broad, luxurious strokes. This lush, full-bodied wine offers a silky texture and a plethora of blackberry fruit underpinned by ironstone minerality. Aromatic notes of sweet fennel, sage, and a hint of tarragon intertwine with black liquorice, leading to a long finish accented by fine cigar box and toasted cedarwood nuances. Enjoy now, or cellar to reveal even greater depth over the next decade."
- Decanter, October 29, 2024 94
"Dusky, toasty, spicy oak and dark fruit aromas lead to a broad, dense palate with super velvety tannins. Loam, tobacco leaf, graphite and cocoa notes expand and linger, along with blackcurrants and dried cherries. Best from 2028."
- James Suckling, June 1, 2024
"The 2022 Double Diamond Proprietary Red allows winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown to experiment with a blend under the Schrader label. Fruit is sourced from notable vineyards, including Wappo Hill for Cabernet Franc, Shifflet for Cabernet Sauvignon in the western hills of the Oak Knoll District, and Red Hen Vineyard for Merlot. This is a lush red with high-toned, perfumed aromatics, dark berry fruit, cassis, and dark cacao notes with a cool, wet slate minerality. Full-bodied, it showcases creamy dark cherry and blackberry fruits, hints of plum, fine-grained tannins, and wild herbs on the extended finish. Balanced, joyful, and far too easy to drink."
— Decanter, October 29, 202492
"More precise and pretty, the 2022 Proprietary Red Wine has a great nose of red and black fruit as well as some attractive floral and spicy nuances. It's rich, concentrated, has medium to full-bodied richness, polished tannins, and a great finish. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, it's a great value in the vintage and will certainly stand up with wines 2-3 times the price. Drink bottles over the coming decade."
— Jeb Dunnuck, January 8, 2025
