This wine presents a compelling bouquet of deep red and black fruits, with prominent aromas of fresh blackberry, rich dark cassis, and black currant. Fine herbs, ancho chili, allspice, sesame, and hints of menthol add an intriguing complexity. On the palate, sun-ripened wild blackberry leads to indulgent notes of chocolate-covered black cherry and notes of tobacco leaf. A hint of gingerbread introduces a delightful spiciness, harmonizing with soft yet powerful tannins. The finish is lingering and extended, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and depth.
Harvest began on September 20th, it was smooth and evenly paced, without as many heat spikes as we’ve seen in recent Napa Valley vintages. Milder weather meant we could pick more gradually, and it gave the grapes plenty of time to ripen and develop deep color and flavor. Continuing drought meant the vines struggled to access water, and the result was smaller clusters and berries yielding wines with intense flavor.
Our Cabernet is harvested at night, ensuring the berries are plump, the crews are not battling the daytime heat, and the fruit will remain cool for processing earlier in the day. Clusters are initially selected in the field, followed by a secondary sorting by hand at the winery. They are destemmed, and the grapes are mechanically sorted, assuring only the best berries go into each small fermentation lot.
Pairs well with filet mignon with black pepper sauce and garlic scalloped potatoes. Fresh fig and Point Reyes blue cheese crostini, or roasted beet salad with Humbolt Fog goat cheese and pistachios.