Winemaker Notes
Ardore is powerfully aromatic with layers of sun-roasted black raspberries, black cherries, crème de cassis, and roughened suede leather. Tobacco, black tea, milk chocolate and dried flowers add further compliment. Plush flavors of black and red fruit expand on the palate giving this wine simultaneous elegance, richness, and opulence. The tannins are extremely supple, leading the path toward a long rewarding finish. A delicious wine. Given the overall extract and balance, the 2011 Ardore will age gracefully over the next 15 years.
Blend: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc
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.