Winemaker Notes
In 2001, Fred Schrader created Double Diamond to make fine-quality Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that could be enjoyed every day without breaking the bank. This character-driven expression of America’s premier wine region is crafted by Thomas Rivers Brown in the Schrader Cellars tradition of excellence which has earned an unprecedented record of twenty-seven 100-point scores from the world’s most respected critics. Double Diamond’s new label, as fabulous as the wine inside, was created by Carol Schrader. In fact, Carol met Fred when she was designing the original label back in the early 2000s.
Now, Fred and Carol are able to fulfill their dream of bringing Double Diamond to an even broader spectrum of fine wine lovers. This 2016 wine, crafted from the renowned vineyards of the Oakville AVA, is just the beginning of the new Double Diamond.
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.