Cabernet Sauvignon

Vineyards

This Cabernet is structured primarily around valley floor fruit from two of our estate vineyards located in the St. Helena AVA, offering ripe fruit character, good structure and a smooth, long finish. Further complexity and elegance is added to the blend with the addition of estate mountain vineyards from AVAs including Mt. Veeder and Atlas Peak. The grapes are harvested by hand at night in small lots over the course of a few weeks, picked only when at the level that meets our style.

Growing Season

2022 brought dry conditions given the persisting drought. Harvest started earlier given the warm temperatures with the fruit showcasing balanced acidity and freshness with remarkable flavors and textures. Even though yields were down, quality was excellent.

Winemaking

Our cellar is set up with every step intentionally designed to emphasize natural aromatics and varietal character. The grapes are chilled to 40°F to heighten aromatics and minimize astringency, then sorted by cluster then berry by our optical sorting system before undergoing a three-to-five-day cold soak. Careful yeast selection and an even, moderate fermentation temperature is key in maintaining the wine’s sense of place. Tannin extraction is constantly analyzed so the wine can be drained off the skins at the ideal flavor, concentration, structure and color, then finish fermenting to dry. The preliminary blend is assembled once the wine completes malolactic fermentation in tank to ensure integration, and ages in a selection of custom-toasted new and used French oak barrels from select coopers.

Experience

This classic Cabernet Sauvignon captures the essence of the varietal, delivering a complex blend of rich fruit and savory aromas. Its well-balanced acidity maintains a lively character, while firm yet approachable tannins lead to a long, harmonious finish. Ideal pairings include rosemary-braised lamb shanks and short ribs slow-cooked with mushrooms and tomatoes.