Review: Cabernets of Domaine Bousquet, Fall 2024
A search of our archives reveals a generous number of Domaine Bousquet offerings reviewed over the last few years. And with good reason: It is a consistent, quality label found at a more than reasonable price point, and its higher-end Malbecs are excellent representatives of Argentinian Malbec. However, this time we’re taking a closer look at some of Bousquet’s Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
2022 Domaine Bousquet Reserve Organic Cabernet Sauvignon – Big and overblown with currant and cherry aromas on the initial approach, faint herbal notes battle through to the surface with a few swirls of the glass and a few minutes of time. The 10 months of oak aging shine through on the palate and balance the lingering cherry and raspberry notes sticking around throughout. The addition of a bit of Malbec keeps this from running too far off the rails. It may be worth the consideration of allocating a few extra dollars to an upgrade to the Gran Bousquet (see below). B / $18
2022 Domaine Bousquet Alavida Kosher Cabernet Sauvignon – USDA Certified Organic and made under the guidance of the strictest Kosher laws, the Malbec offerings under this label have failed to disappoint thus far, and this Cabernet continues the winning streak. Unlike the Reserve, this is a 100% Cabernet offering dark fruit, but also a touch of cigar box on the nose that one would normally associate with Malbec. The dark fruit sets the agenda but is framed by notes of vanilla, baking spice and red cherry oscillating in and out. Medium-bodied with good acidity, this is a solid, appropriate bottle to bring to an informal gathering or dinner party. A great example of affordability, integrity, and taste positioned perfectly in the center point of a Venn diagram. A- / $18
2021 Domaine Bousquet Gaia Cabernet Franc – Unless being greeted by an overwhelming aroma of raspberry is your thing, and it very well may be, it’s best to let this sit and get some air before proceeding. Notes of cola and strawberry eventually emerge to provide some balance, so patience is an ally that will reward. Tannins push the raspberry forward on the palate, but notes of oak and black tea emerge to add dimension. It’s best to complement this with a rich and hearty dinner to balance the enormity, but it can also work as a standalone glass, time permitting. B+ / $20
2021 Domaine Bousquet Gran Cabernet Sauvignon – A noticeable upgrade from the Reserve Organic Cabernet Sauvignon (see above), the Malbec influence is elevated and mutes the amplified currant notes found in the reserve, allowing for aromas of dark fruit to rise above on the initial passes. The oak aging once again harmoniously balances dark fruit on the palate but also allows space for overtones of vanilla, clove, and blackberry to evolve. A- / $25
2021 Domaine Bousquet Ameri Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon – The grapes for Domaine’s Ameri line are not harvested from just a single vineyard but within specific clusters, and the wine is only made in years where the yields prove exceptional. They’re also harvested from the highest point on Domaine’s estate, which gives them greater fluctuation in temperature and constant sunlight, resulting in increased acidity, sugar, and flavor levels. Aromas of rosemary and vanilla give way to red fruits and some minerality, with balanced acidity supporting notes of ripe dark cherry, bell pepper, and a touch of coffee towards the end of the palate. It is quite full-bodied, and the satiny tannins allow the dark cherry and chocolate on the finish to linger. It was hard not to return to this for additional pours; if only to allow time to imagine how well this would complement something fresh off the grill. One of the better Cabernet Sauvignons from Argentina I’ve enjoyed in some time. A / $37
2022 Domaine Bousquet Reserve Organic Cabernet Sauvignon
$18
