Nose

aromas of red berries, cedar, vanilla and a touch of oak.

Palate

Hints of blackberries, blueberries, herbs, black pepper and vanilla show on the palate.

Growing Conditions

Following the example of the outstanding 1997 vintage, the 1998 Cakebread Cellars Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested a vineyard block at a time over a two-week period. We then kept the wine made from each block separate as each one is grown on a different rootstock, creating decidedly different flavors and aromas. Working with separate, small lots of wine from this vintage, Winemaker Bruce Cakebread then assembled the best and most representative Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon possible.

Winemaking

More than simply highlighting the fruit from an exceptional vineyard in an excellent growing year, the Cakebread and Phillips’ families regard this second release of Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon as a tribute to their decades-long relationship.

Aging

26 months in French Oak, 80% new