2015 Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is what our property was made for!
Vintage
The 2015 growing season in Napa Valley started out with unseasonably warm temperatures in late winter and early spring, which resulted in early bud break and bloom. A warm winter followed by colder temperatures in May resulted in a smaller crop than the previous three vintages. While drought was of great concern, the lack of water resulted in small grape clusters with highly concentrated flavors. This vintage will be remembered for its high-quality fruit, but low yields.
Vineyard
Our family vineyard is located on 40 acres of Napa Valley floor just north of St. Helena on the Silverado Trail. It has well-drained, sandy, alluvial soils and is characterized by its ability to produce complex wines with well-defined fruit flavors, gentle acids and naturally balanced tannins. The 5 blocks of Cabernet planted on this vineyard are picked and aged separately, then blended together to create our Napa Valley Cabernet.
Vinification
The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested in the 10-day period from September 19th-281th of 2015. It was gently destemmed and then pumped to tank. It was fermented on the skins from 10-14 days and then drained at the completion of alcoholic fermentation. After draining it was racked to 45% new barrels (50% of which are Hungarian Oak, 30% French Oak and 20% American Oak) to barrels for ageing.
Wine Profile
A rich open wine that is bound to please! Its aromas are clean and bright, reminding the senses of cherry, berry skin, milk chocolate, all spice and potpourri. Rich and balanced on the palate, with flavors of chocolate covered berry, plum sauce, coffee, molasses and fig compote. The tannins are balanced and refined, giving the wine an excellent density that is rounded out with fresh acidity. Enjoy through 2027.
Technical Information:
Vineyard Manager: Eric Titus
Winemaker: Stephen Cruzan
Appellation: Napa Valley
Harvest Date : September 19-28, 2015
Blend: 79% Cabernet Sauvignon
9% Malbec
7% Cabernet Franc
5% Petit Verdot
Bottled: May 9th, 2017
Cases Produced: 3745
Release: September 2017
Barrel Aging: 45% New Oak
French, Hungarian, American
Alcohol: 15.1%
Total Acidity: 6
pH: 3.85