Winemaker Notes
The winemakers used all five Bordeaux varieties to create the essence of Napa Valley in this Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant wine. Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and a touch of Petit Verdot bring out the nuances in the blend, which was fermented completely in stainless steels tanks before aging 10 months in French oak, 25% new barrels.
Inviting and expressive aromatics of red cherries, blackcurrants, rose petals, cigar boxes, baking spices and wet slate. Spicy red plum, nutmeg, molasses, with gentle, soft tannins and a balanced, flavorful finish.
Undoubtedly proving its merit over and over, Napa Valley is a now a leading force in the world of prestigious red wine regions. Though Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Napa Valley, other red varieties certainly thrive here. Important but often overlooked include Merlot and other Bordeaux varieties well-regarded on their own as well as for their blending capacities. Very old vine Zinfandel represents an important historical stronghold for the region and Pinot noir is produced in the cooler southern parts, close to the San Pablo Bay.
Perfectly situated running north to south, the valley acts as a corridor, pulling cool, moist air up from the San Pablo Bay in the evenings during the hot days of the growing season, which leads to even and slow grape ripening. Furthermore the valley claims over 100 soil variations including layers of volcanic, gravel, sand and silt—a combination excellent for world-class red wine production.