winemaker's notes:
Special Selection is the name we chose with the first vintage, 1975, to indicate grapes that stood above the others from the moment of harvest through oak barrel aging and, finally, the selection of the blend that we felt deserved this designation.
Over the decades, we have continued to recognize the superior character of specific vineyard blocks vintage by vintage. We have also secured long-term farming control—including planting, allowing us to select our preferred rootstock and clones—of Napa Valley vineyards with different slopes, elevation and climates.
The primary aromas are of black currants, blackberries, brown spices and dark-roasted coffee beans. In the mouth, the wine is lush and expansive, rich in berry fruit with a firm "grip" that makes the wine’s texture an important part of its character. The finish is long and classic—ripe fruit dominates.