Winemaker Notes
"V" is an exclusive Viader blend with a primary focus on Petit Verdot rounded up with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Each year, differing amounts of these varietals are carefully selected to create a blend that best expresses the character and nature of the Viader Estate. "V" is intended to highlight the sophistication of Petit Verdot as a varietal. Petit Verdot imparts deep color, tannin and piquant spice to the blend. Cabernet Sauvignon maintains the balance and a smaller percentage of Cabernet Franc adds plushness to the finish. The result of this unique combination is a vibrant, sumptuous wine with a powerful but inviting presence.
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.