Thomas Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

VINTAGE NOTES
Late winter rains followed by ideal spring growing conditions set the stage for the 2021 vintage. Mild temperatures punctuated this drought year with only a few heat spikes during the summer months that led to early ripening and allowed us to harvest some early blocks with incredible old-world charm and intriguing complexity. Grapes that were harvested later benefited from the longer hang time and ripened perfectly, displaying great depth with distinct regional character. The ideal weather of 2021, coupled with lower yields, produced wines that offer intense aromatics and flavors with excellent aging potential.

ABOUT THE VINEYARD
What began as a chance meeting between Alpha Omega Vintner Robin Baggett and Engineer Don Thomas at the Rutherford Post Office culminated in the purchase of Thomas’ eponymous vineyard by Alpha Omega in 2015. Tucked into the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains on the famed Rutherford Bench, this seven-acre vineyard was originally developed in 2003. The site is divided into 15 blocks that showcase a variety of steep slopes, aspects and alluvial, rocky loam soils, resulting in lower grape yields and concentrated, distinctively flavored grapes.

WINEMAKING
This wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and was 100% barrel fermented in French oak, 35% new and 65% one-year-old barriques and then aged for 18 months in the same barrel composition.

Sight: Opaque blackish ruby red

Nose: Rich, earth-driven aromas of dusty soil meld with alluring dark berry fruit further enhance notes of bouillon, cured meat, coffee grinds, bay leaf and nutmeg.

Palate: Full-bodied with precise, ripe blackberry and plum fruit, the flavors accent notes of fresh tar, pot roast, cherrywood and dark roast coffee.