Winemaker Notes
2012 was a phenomenal year and a winemakers dream. It was a long consistent growing season providing an abundance of high quality fruit to select from. The fruit for Fortress was sourced from top quality vineyards throughout Sonoma. The wine was made pure minimalistic way that truly represents the vineyards and vintage. Finally, it was aged in oak barrels for roughly 12 months before going to bottle.
Blend: 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Syrah, 4% Petite Verdot, 3% Malbec, 3% Cabernet Franc
While Sonoma County is acclaimed—and rightfully so—for its Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Zinfandels, it also produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Of the region’s 18 American Viticultural Areas, only a handful produce top-notch Cabernet Sauvignon. These appellations include Alexander Valley, Knights Valley, Sonoma Valley and Dry Creek Valley. Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignons made in these appellations can offer a complex array of aromas and flavors. Fruit notes such as blackberry, blackcurrant, cassis, black cherry and raspberry often are accompanied by hints of graphite, dusty earth, cigar box, toast and vanilla. The varietal has a rich history in Sonoma, and some of these Cabernet Sauvignons and Cabernet-based blends rival the best from Napa Valley.