2018 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
My inaugural release, showcasing a commitment to meticulous farming, winemaking, and artisanal style. While approachable in the next few years, this Cabernet Sauvignon will continue to develop over the next 10+ years. Anticipated maturity: 2024–2032. Limited production of 100 cases.
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WINEMAKING
Composition - Cabernet Sauvignon | Clones 7, 31 & 337
Vineyards - Caldwell, Napa Valley & Charlie Smith, Sonoma
Harvest Date - October 8 - 23
Brix at Harvest - 25.2
Maceration - 19 Days | Max fermentation temperature 88F
Aging - 22 months in rare, 100% new French Oak | Colbert Forrest, Tronçais France
pH - 3.72
TA - 6.1
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VINTAGE
2018 was a textbook growing season for Napa and Sonoma. Late winter rains led to perfect water reservoirs for vines to draw from over the long growing season. Cool Spring temperatures led to a late bud-break, but under ideal conditions for fruit set. Summer brought copious amounts of sunlight with cool and consistent daytime temperatures and virtually no heat spikes. Ideal weather conditions throughout the season and harvest made for long and generous hang-time on the vine, allowing for maximum phenolic and flavor development. Fruit was harvested by hand throughout October in small bins, allowing for gentle handling and hand sorting of the fruit at the winery.
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WINEMAKER'S TASTING NOTES
My inaugural release with the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, is a layered and elegant expression of the noble grape variety. In the glass, this wine is a nearly opaque, crimson. The aromatic bouquet leaps from the glass with brooding black currant, Mission fig, crushed black cherry, Madagascar vanilla, and sandalwood. The palate opens with expansive bright red and black fruits, rustic spices, caramel, cedar, and briar. The finish is broad and lengthy with layers of fleshy plum, and crème de cassis, giving way to fine and sweet tannins. Drinkable upon release, this wine will benefit from a generous decanting, served at 60 degrees. Anticipated maturity with proper cellaring : 2024-2032.
Proprietor & Winemaker