FROM THE WINERY:
This Napa Cabernet Sauvignon reflects a traditional old-school approach to winemaking, where terroir is allowed to express itself and the art of the blend results in wines of balance and complexity. Joseph Carr and celebrated winemaker Wayne Donaldson work with small growers in the Napa Valley and Rutherford AVAs to assemble this cuvée, which offers richness, depth, and approachability.
Tasting Notes:
Lively aromas lift from the glass and are highlighted with handfuls of black cherry, licorice, burnt caramel and vanilla. On the palate, this Cabernet is fresh and polished and illuminates layers of ripe fruit and comforting spice. Ripe flavors of black cherry and cassis are complimented by warm pie crust and drift into a lingering brambly fruit conserve.
Production Notes:
Hand-picked at the peak of flavor development, the grapes are crushed and cold-soaked for 24 hours. The cap is punched down three times daily to maximize flavor extraction during fermentation and maceration, which lasts 10 to 15 days. The wine is aged in 100% French oak for 16 to 18 months.
Winemaker Notes:
The vines got off to an early start coming out of a warm and dry winter. Cool conditions during flowering were instrumental to lower yields. Over the summer, temperate weather allowed a long period of grape development. This combination of factors fostered grapes with wonderful character.