Winemaker Notes
This alluring Bordeaux-varietal blend displays concentrated aromas of red currant, cassis, sage, cedar and graphite, as well as hints of sweet oak and roasted coffee. On the palate the tannins are seamless and balanced, underscoring the depth and charm of the beautiful red and black fruit flavors as they glide to an elegant finish with lingering flavors of ripe berries, earth and spice.
Blend: 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc
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.