Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This 100% varietal wine was aged in differing levels of oak, from 33% new French to once and twice-used (also French). It makes for a bold presence of thick soft black plum and licorice complemented by long-lasting texture and a length of leather.
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Wine Spectator
Rich and decadent, with chocolate and cherry flavors that show details of mocha, chicory and fresh tobacco, followed by cinnamon and vanilla bean notes on the long finish. The tannins are plump and velvety. Drink now through 2030. 1,000 cases made.
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.