Winemaker Notes
Gold Vineyard resides on a hilltop in the Mayacamas Mountains of Sonoma Valley. This gem vineyard lies above the fog-line and is bathed in brilliant sun during the day. The temperature drops precipitously at night as the wind from the Pacific and San Pablo Bay washes over these 17 year-old vines. They are planted in well-drained volcanic-clay soil and dry-farmed producing small berries with intense flavor.
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.