Winemaker Notes
The 2016 growing season began early, although we saw a moderate summer with a few heat spikes in July. A welcome period
of cooling arrived in September just in time for harvest. The 2016 vintage of Helena Montana Cabernet Sauvignon is black violet
in color. On the nose, aromas of fresh bay leaf, subtle eucalyptus oil, lavender, and rosemary accompany concentrated fruit
aromas of dried blackberry and black currant. French Oak supports characters of fresh coffee, ground clove, red hot cinnamon,
and brown buttered toast. This wine deserves it’s place in a cool cellar, as today’s balance will truly reward patience, tomorrow.
Vegan
Critical Acclaim
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A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.
A noble variety bestowed with both power and concentration, Cabernet Sauvignon enjoys success all over the globe, its best examples showing potential to age beautifully for decades. Cabernet Sauvignon flourishes in Bordeaux's Medoc where it is often blended with Merlot and smaller amounts of some combination of Cabernet Franc, Malbecand Petit Verdot. In the Napa Valley, ‘Cab’ is responsible for some of the world’s most prestigious, age-worthy and sought-after “cult” wines. Somm Secret—DNA profiling in 1997 revealed that Cabernet Sauvignon was born from a spontaneous crossing of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in 17th century southwest France.