Neyers Cabernet Sauvignon Neyers Ranch-Conn Valley 2006

Our organically and sustainably farmed 50-acre vineyard sits just east of the town of St. Helena, in the hills that separate the Napa Valley from the warmer regions of Pope and Chiles Valley. The ranch is divided into several parcels of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, all of them on soils that combine compacted volcanic ash with an underlying layer of gravel. This is land that is ideal for those Bordeaux grape varieties, and the gentle, south-facing slope makes it better still. We've planted vines using the utmost care, selecting rootstock appropriate for low yields and dry-farming conditions. The scion budwood, selected for maximum flavor and complexity, comes from a stand of vines at the old Inglenook Winery; it is thought to have originated at Chateau Margaux. The finished wine, which is a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon with 5% Merlot, is the result of a rigorous selection process that uses only a portion of what is already an extraordinary small crop. Look for this wine to be full of the lush varietal flavors normally associated with Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, like chocolate and just-ripened cherries. It drinks well right now, it's so soft.