Winemaker Notes
Critical Acclaim
All VintagesRating: 96+
Ed and Deb Fitts have always believed in building the strongest business and personal relationships possible, selecting the right model and choosing the best people. They were drawn to this spectacular location above the cloud line because of the view of the distant valley and Lake Hennessey, but what they found up close was the proven soil of their neighbors and upon deeper inspection, we discovered that this land was ripe with promise. They were compelled to develop the potential of this property and guided by the expertise of our team we feel that we have begun the journey of a lifetime. Their vision is to build BRAND to a highly recognized name that represents the best red wine our vineyards on Pritchard Hill have to offer. Ed and Deb's personal goal is to help promote vineyards on Pritchard Hill as the most respected in the valley.
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.