Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder 2023

VINTAGE NOTES

2023 is an exceptional vintage marked by one of the longest growing seasons in over a decade. Significant winter rains followed by a warm, dry spring supported healthy canopy growth through bloom. Cooler weather prevailed throughout the rest of the growing season, aided by abundant sunshine that enabled grapes to ripen slowly and reach perfect maturity. The long growing season and extended “hang time” for grapes has produced wines with stunning, complex flavors and the structure for long term aging.

VINEYARD SOURCES

Known as the “Napa Redwoods”, Mount Veeder is located in the southern end of the Mayacamas Mountains just west of the town of Napa.  The appellation reaches up to over 2,500 feet, with many vineyards located on steep hillsides surrounded by forest that encompasses 85% of the appellation. The dense forest, high-altitude vineyards, and proximity to San Pablo Bay combine to make this a cool growing region with a long growing season.  Grapes for this wine came primarily from the steep, central part of Mount Veeder AVA.

WINEMAKING

The 2023 vintage is 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Malbec. Fermentation took place in 75% French oak barriques, 80% new, and 25% in stainless steel tanks.  The wine was then aged for 18 months in French oak barriques, 30% new.

TASTING NOTES

SIGHT: Opaque ruby

NOSE: Complex aromas of boysenberry and blackberry mixed with dark earth, sage, purple flowers and gooseberry

PALATE: Concentrated, medium full-bodied flavors of blackberry and black cherry enhanced by peppercorn, anise, earl grey tea and hoisin