Winemaker Notes

1998 was a seemingly normal harvest with softer than usual wines from the Rutherford area and of course pleasingly drinkable for the public. Although properties to the east and west of us were somewhat hurt by weather conditions, the strip of the Rutherford Bench east of Highway 29 seems to have survived quite well and produced a lovely vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon. Again this is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the valley floor of Oakville and Rutherford and is very indicative of the fine Sequioa Grove style.
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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.

HEI1495159_1998 Item# 21589