Winemaker Notes
With the 2012 harvest being nothing short of spectacular, the resultant Jumping Goat is clearly the most robust wine we’ve produced from this river bench vineyard. The aromatics exhibit dark fruit with cassis and black cherry, crushed rocks, anise along with hints of sweet oak. This well-structured wine expresses the vineyard marvelously with more overall minerality and great acidity. The length and finesse that show through the finish are a clear example of how a superbly crafted wine can demonstrate dark fruit expression, structure, brightness and still retain its elegance.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.