Winemaker Notes
In making a wine, we may focus on varietal expression or we may focus on the nature of site. We are intrigued with each of these directions. Our Source-Napa wines emphasize the nature of site. Our new Mount St. Helena Brand wines showcase the varietal fruit essence of our grape types. To accomplish this, we bring together individual lots from across our appellation to create fruit-oriented, flavorful wines that speak of their varietal definition. We focus on wines made from the Bordeaux varieties. And also the Charbono variety that was once widely planted across Napa. There are only 37 acres planted today, and we enjoy bringing our attention to this lost variety.
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.