Winemaker Notes
Fermentations were in open-topped tanks where the cap was punched down three times daily until dryness, then followed with an additional maceration of two to seven days before draining the wine off of the skins. The wine is 100 percent free run (the juice that flows freely from the grapes without pressing), meaning the lower quality press wine was not used. Barrel aging was in Moon Mountain's deep caves, which provides a constant temperature of 60ºF and very high humidity. This environment enhances the concentration of lush fruit flavor.
The quality of this vintage was superb, producing a deeply-colored wine with flavors of ripe black cherry, well-integrated spice, rich sweet tannin and a long, lingering finish. This wine has the structure to age gracefully throughout the next decade.
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.