Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

This wine is 100% made with estate fruit. The diversity of soils and slopes where this is grown in Calistoga directly translates to layers of complexity and depth in the glass. The Estate vineyard is comprised of varied terrain, from flat to steep hillsides. The vineyard gently slopes downward towards its base, where a small patch of sedimentary soil was deposited by the settling of an ancient ocean or lake. Extending out from the Napa River is the alluvial soil, the most prevalent type on the property. In the back and outside areas of the vineyard are volcanic soils, formed by ancient lava flows caused by tectonic uplifting.

The wine is made up of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc. The wine is aged in 100% French oak barrels (28% new) for 18 months. It exuberantly reflects the Calistoga vineyard, while balancing power with an extraordinary ability to age.

We saw cool temperatures and an exceptionally wet spring, especially the month of May. June was mild, with some rain. July brought much needed steady warmth, but no major heat spikes, and continued into August. September started off cool, which was great for fruit ripening. At the end of the month, there was a heat wave, just in time to push the Cabernet to full maturity.

Luscious and rich on the nose with great depth, we find top notes of violets, cassis, and rich, dark cherry, all riding over a base of warm leather, cocoa, wet stone and molasses. The palate opens with red raspberry and blackcurrants before building to mouth-filling ripe cherry, a beautiful acid balance, and round rich velvety tannins. The incredible intensity of the palate fades slowly leaving a finish of dried fruits and hints of clove with remarkable weight and tremendous persistence.

This is a powerhouse wine that can stand up to any number of complex dishes, but can be best enjoyed with beef, lamb, game (deer, venison) and mature, hard cheeses.