2016 Cabernet Sauvignon 1.5L

Blend Composition | 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Harvest Date | September 28 - 30
Finished pH | 3.66
Finished TA | 6.5 g/L
Alcohol by volume | 14.3%
Production | 281 cases

VINTAGE
Despite the ongoing statewide drought, Napa Valley received close to average rainfall in 2015-16.  More than 12" fell in March 2016, ensuring that the vines had ample water as they emerged from dormancy.  The growing season was considerably cooler than in the previous two vintages, allowing us to harvest beautifully ripened grapes at the end of a long growing season.

WINEMAKING
Our Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of clones 6, 30 and 337, which bring depth to the finished wine. In the winery we handle the fruit gently, destemming without crushing the berries. We adjust our cap management techniques—punchdowns and pumpovers—to get the desired structure and color without overextraction.

TASTING NOTES
The wine displays great aromatic complexity to match its beautiful crimson to dark garnet color.  Blackberry, blackcurrant and black cherry aromas are complemented by cedar, sage, and thyme notes.  These flavors carry through on the palate, supported by substantial but soft, supple tannins.  Notes of espresson, dark chocolate, and a hint of tobacco develop on the lingering finish.  This is a wine of great length and complexity that will continue to evolve in the glass and cellar.

This Cabernet Sauvignon is irresistible now but will reward cellaring for a decade or more.

PAIRINGS
This versatile wine would be wonderful with grilled meats (pork, skirt steak, leg of lamb, lamb chops) and a wild mushroom risotto.

- Matt Reid, Winemaker