Nose
Rich aromas of layered raspberry, cherry, pepper and spice are accentuated by
multidimensional vanilla, driven by medium toast American oak.
Palate
The richness fully reveals itself on the palate with a long and lovely mouthfeel that lingers for minutes.
Growing Conditions
2014 was a dream vintage for Napa Valley growers. Harvest was unusually early
for Napa’s grape farmers across the board. California’s ongoing drought finally offered some relief for the stressed vines with rain late in February and early March, setting the
vines up for a vigorous start. “Early” was the keyword all season, from bud break to veraison to harvest, and thankfully the hotter months proved to be milder than most expected. 2014 on Howell Mountain produced fruit of outstanding quality, resulting in beautiful wines that tend to be darker and more concentrated than the ‘12s, but more approachable than the tightly packed wines of 2013.
The ideal growing season is showcased by this mountaintop Zinfandel, with its seductive red to darkfruit, elegant spice, and perfect balance. Drink and enjoy now, but expect this one to last well over a decade.
