Winemaker Notes
In 2013 small lots of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot from Rockpile Ridge became available and Guy leapt at the chance to create a blend with these varieties with the Rockpile Cabernet Sauvignon. Thus was born the Cab 5, named for the 5 grape varieties that comprise this wine. This wine showcases the artistry of blending, highlighting the best in each variety while coming together seamlessly in this blend.
Blend: 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Cabernet Franc, 21% Malbec, 8% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
High elevation vineyards—800 to 2,100 feet—on well-drained soils of red and brown clay loam, gravel and large rock outcroppings produce low yields of intense, high-quality fruit. Surrounded by Northern Sonoma County and overlapping Dry Creek Valley in its northwest corner, the Rockpile AVA produces some of California most powerful Zinfandel, Petit Sirah, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon based wines.