Nose

Red raspberry and dried black currant dominate the rich and fruit driven nose.

Palate

Flavors of graphite, iron, rose petal, and dried sage showcase the cooler, volcanic, mountain terroir of our estate. Structured and fresh, the wine shows a long finish with pronounced minerality. This wine should cellar well for at least 10 more years, likely much longer.

Growing Conditions

High on the slopes of Mount Veeder, Mayacamas Vineyards has been a source of legendary California wine since 1889. Since the 1950’s the vinification and élevage of Mayacamas remains remarkably consistent and our continued commitment to employ classical techniques and tools is integral to the character of these wines. The mountain terroir at Mayacamas ranges from 1,800 to 2,400 feet in elevation and the estate spans 475 acres, only 50 of which are dedicated to vine. The region’s richly intense, age-worthy wines reflect the independent spirit of its mountain growers and vintners, borne of rugged conditions that demand craftsmanship at the highest level. Mount Veeder is a one-of-a-kind appellation with a cooler mountain climate and the lowest yields in Napa Valley. Soils range from poor volcanic deposits to ancient seabed; the grapes produced here retain high acidity and a clean, mineral character.

The 2003 growing season began with a challenging spring that included both heat spikes, and
significant rain. Summer temperatures were fairly cool, allowing for good flavor development over time.

Harvest

A heat wave in mid September pushed most our vineyards to ripeness – with Cabernet
harvest spanning from September 18th to October 9th. Grapes for the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon were harvested exclusively from high-elevation vineyards on Mount Veeder, some more than 40+ years old.

Winemaking

In the vineyard, the grapes were harvested early to retain bright acidity and firm tannins. After
fermentation in cement vats, the wines aged for 3 years in neutral oak – a combination of large format foudre and barrique. After an additional 2 years in bottle, the wine was initially released in 2008.