Winemaker Notes
We are especially proud of this vintage, as it again provides an example of how a wine can display tremendous depth, wonderful extraction and richness without being over-ripe, overly tannic or high in alcohol … three common flaws found in today's wines. Here, we see key components working together harmonically and complimenting one another, rather than competing for center stage. This is, after all, what balance in wine is all about.
We source all our Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes from mountain and/or hillside locations. Here, the soils are shallow and less fertile than the valleys, requiring the grapevines to work harder to seek the nutrients and water needed for survival. The resulting vines are smaller, less vigorous and typically produce smaller clusters and far less crop. What could be more exhilarating than walking the rocky hillsides of a high elevation Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard, and marveling at the resilience of these plants?
Professional Ratings
Imagine a winemaking region just hours north of San Francisco rich in diversity and distinctive terroir, a well-kept secret tucked amongst the towering redwoods and influenced by the Pacific Ocean. Over half a century ago, pioneering growers recognized the Russian River Valley as a place that just might produce Pinot Noir that rivaled the villages of Burgundy. After decades of winemaking and selective planting, their valley has become internationally known for producing Pinot that is distinctly American and reflects the natural influences of their terroir.
Gary Farrell Winemaker, Theresa Heredia, grape growers and other winemakers within the Russian River Valley have always recognized that certain regions of the valley produced distinctly different wines. Since the 2014 Vintage, they have been monitoring whether characteristics like aroma, texture and others can be attributed to specific sections of the Valley. This deep dive into Russian River Pinot Noir has become the Neighborhoods Initiative that is also a hallmark of their Single Vineyard winemaking, and their elevated Salon experiences.
The concept of a neighborhood is truly an American idea, and is more concerned with defining the characteristics a specific cluster of vineyards produce than defining the geographical boundaries. It’s both a sense of community and terroir at the same time
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.