Palate
The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon
is gorgeous and well-rounded with expressive
layers of dark red and black fruit, vanilla,
roasted coffee beans, tobacco, graphite, and hints
of volcanic earthiness. The firm Howell Mountain
tannins are softened with fruit from the valley
floor, making this dynamic wine extremely
approachable now, but with ample structure
to enjoy well into the next decadeft
Growing Conditions
Our Cabernet Sauvignon grapes come from two of the finest vineyards in Napa Valley. The core of the Cabernet Sauvignon fruit comes from a Howell Mountain vineyard situated on the outskirts of the town of Angwin. This vineyard has consistently produced top quality Cabernet Sauvignon fruit for over 80 vintages. Randy Dunn of Dunn Vineyards, and a small number of boutique wineries also are fortunate to obtain some of this extremely sought after fruit. This mountain vineyard produces extremely small, concentrated berry clusters with very thick skin resulting in dark, concentrated, intense, complex and delicious wine.
The second vineyard for our Cabernet Sauvignon grapes is located on the valley floor in the St. Helena appellation. The vines are is mostly clone 29, and clone 7. The wine produced from this vineyard provide additional flavors, complexity, and supple qualities to the final blend of our delicious Cabernet Sauvignon.
Aging
26 months in 100% French oak barrels (80% new)
