Winemaker Notes
Grapes were hand harvested, sorted, and fermented in stainless tanks for 15 days. Aged for 20 months in 20% new French oak. The Proprietary Red captures a true expression of California’s finest appellations. A blend of predominately Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah from acclaimed AVA’s including Rutherford and Howell Mountain in Napa Valley. Medium-dark ruby color. Enticing and complex perfume of ripe red and blueberries, plums, fine oak, and herbs. The medium-to-full bodied palate is juicy, showing fine ripe tannins, and a silky and pure texture. Stunning.
Apriori Cellar was founded on the principle that quality, authenticity and joy should be part of every wine experience. Their winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in balance and terroir, which is why they strive to showcase the pure qualities of their grapes and distinctive personalities of their climates. Their exacting commitment to beauty and truth results in very high quality wines that are sure to bring pleasure to everyone.
Undoubtedly proving its merit over and over, Napa Valley is a now a leading force in the world of prestigious red wine regions. Though Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Napa Valley, other red varieties certainly thrive here. Important but often overlooked include Merlot and other Bordeaux varieties well-regarded on their own as well as for their blending capacities. Very old vine Zinfandel represents an important historical stronghold for the region and Pinot noir is produced in the cooler southern parts, close to the San Pablo Bay.
Perfectly situated running north to south, the valley acts as a corridor, pulling cool, moist air up from the San Pablo Bay in the evenings during the hot days of the growing season, which leads to even and slow grape ripening. Furthermore the valley claims over 100 soil variations including layers of volcanic, gravel, sand and silt—a combination excellent for world-class red wine production.