This wine captures the strong, rich and dense character of the Cabernet Franc grapes from our vineyard in the world-renowned Oakville appellation. Bottled only during outstanding vintages, this massive wine pays homage to Luc’s great-grandfather, Gaston Morlet, who had a reputation for being a force of nature in his native Avenay-Val-D’Or. His pioneering spirit remains one of the forces behind our family’s passion for making the best wines possible. Crafted from 100% Cabernet Franc grapes, this wine truly is a ‘Force of Nature’ or ‘Force de la Nature.’
Located in the world-renowned Oakville appellation, in the heart of the Napa Valley, our Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc vines benefit from the gravelly and loamy Bale soil derived from an alluvial fan in this warm yet temperate climate. Handcrafted using classical winemaking techniques, this wine is dedicated to Dr. Richard Johnson and Dr. Nancy Hampel who have always demonstrated their kindness of heart. It is ‘Heart of the Valley’ or ‘Cœur de Vallée.’
Our unique estate lies on the western foothills, just north of the town of St. Helena. Shallow loamy topsoil and rocky subsoil of the Hambright and Felta series, as well as full sun exposure, create superb conditions for our Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Respecting its historic 1880 charm, we restored the pre-Prohibition stone winery, which is illustrated on the label. Handcrafted using classical winemaking techniques and reminiscent of a true First Growth, this wine represents the precious memory of a very special place.
Crafted with the passionate, uncompromised and ongoing pursuit of quality, this judicious blend comes from the finest barrels of our manicured vineyards on the Oakville Bench and on the foothills of Knights Valley and St. Helena. As the French say, “Je t’aime, un peu, beaucoup, passionnément!” (I love you, a little, a lot, passionately!) This special wine is dedicated to Jodie Morlet. It is ‘Passionately’ or ‘Passionnément.’
