Vineyard Notes:
This Cabernet Sauvignon hails from the St. Helena AVA in the Napa Valley. The vineyard of origin is the Glass Mountain vineyard which is on the east side of the valley off of the Silverado Trail.
Vintage Notes:
The 2005 vintage was an incredibly prolific year in the Napa Valley. It was very reminiscent of the 1997 vintage, which at the time, set a record for grape tonnage produced. That record was broken by the 2005 harvest. Such a prolific harvest lead to a lighter style Cabernet in the valley that year. The fruit was harvested in early November which allowed for maximum hang time infusing biochemical, physical and flavor maturity.
Winemaker Tasting Notes:
From the outset, this Cabernet was very reminiscent of another prized Bordeaux varietal, Cabernet Franc. The aromatics of the wine emanating from the barrel were that of bright red fruit, including cherry, raspberry and boysenberry enhanced by the signature all spice and cinnamon. Prior to bottling, we blended a small amount of Syrah and Petite Sirah with the Cabernet to infuse some additional tannin and structure to carry the wine through a complete sensual experience.
The wine was aged in new and neutral French oak barrels for 18 months. At first blush, the wine produces the signature Cab Franc aromatics of spice and bright fruit but after volatizing the wine in the glass, the deeper and darker scents of cassis and smoke come through. The mouthfeel is pleasingly plush and the wine does not disappoint on the finish as the Syrah and Petite Sirah blended in allows the flavours to linger.
Technical Notes:
| Appellation: |
St. Helena, Napa Valley |
| Harvest: |
11.5.05 thru 11.10.05
|
| Brix at Harvest: |
24.6 |
| Fermentation: |
Closed-top Stainless steel tank, Pump-over cap management, horizontal bladder press
|
| Aging: |
18 months in French Oak |
| Production: |
275 Cases |