Nickel & Nickel Rock Cairn Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 1998

Planted in 1984, Rock Cairn lies at the western base of the Yountville hill in the Oakville appellation. The vineyard is dry-farmed, which results in very concentrated fruit late in the season. Originally part of the Rancho Caymus land grant to George C. Yount, this vineyard was named after the "cairns" or "piles of rocks" that were formed at various locations throughout the property. Long ago, the land was traversed by Native Americans, who, as they passed over the hill would say a prayer and place a rock on the cairn. Exhibiting many characteristics of Oakville, the 1998 Rock Cairn Cabernet Sauvignon is richly structured and powerful. It has aromas of cherry, anise and herb with an underlying dusty earthiness typical to the appellation. The wine opens up to notes of plum, cherry, clove and white pepper and the texture id fat and unyielding. Spicy, sweet oak supports and expands the middle palate, and the mature tannins give length to the finish of this age-worthy wine.