Why 2022 is a Vintage to Remember for Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2022 vintage was anything but predictable. What began as a relatively mild growing season changed dramatically around Labor Day, when an extended heat wave was followed by significant rainfall just as cabernet sauvignon harvest was getting underway. The result was one of Jordan’s longest and most dynamic harvests, with grapes displaying an unusually broad spectrum of flavors. Despite the challenges, the finished 2022 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is remarkably balanced and fresh, with layers of dark fruit, vibrant berries and refined tannins.

Here are four reasons the 2022 vintage is one to remember.

A Mild Summer Set the Stage

After a cool spring and windy bloom, conditions settled into an ideal rhythm from May through August. Warm weather with few significant heat spikes encouraged uniform clusters and concentrated fruit flavors. By late summer, the cabernet sauvignon was developing beautifully, setting the stage for what initially looked like a straightforward harvest.

A Record Heat Wave Put the Vineyards to the Test

That changed over Labor Day, when temperatures climbed above 103 degrees for 10 days, including four days over 110. With most red grapes still weeks away from harvest, Jordan worked closely with its growers to increase irrigation and minimize dehydration.

Once temperatures dropped, the vineyard team discovered a dramatic shift in the fruit. Sugar levels had risen to some of the highest ever recorded at Jordan, making careful sampling and selective picking essential. Despite the heat, the grapes retained beautiful black cherry and cranberry flavors.

September Rain Changed the Vintage Again

Just as picking accelerated, another weather event arrived: 2.5 inches of rain. The team harvested around the clock ahead of the storm, crushing a record 239.3 tons of grapes in a single day.

After the rain, the remaining vineyards were given about a week to dry before picking resumed. Those later-ripening grapes tasted remarkably different, showing cooler-vintage flavors of blueberry, rich cherry and violet. The contrast gave the winemaking team both concentrated warm-weather fruit and fresher, cooler-weather flavors to work with in the final blend.

Patience and Selection Brought It All Together

After a harvest that stretched from September 8 through October 20, the individual vineyard lots were kept separate through fermentation before being blind-tasted and ranked. Only the top lots ultimately made their way into the final master blend. The finished 2022 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon captures the complexity of the season without showing its extremes. Black cherry, mixed berries and dark fruit are complemented by subtle spice, vibrant acidity and refined tannins, creating a wine with richness, freshness and balance.