Nose

The 2010 FORTIS presents a harmonious bouquet that overflows
with ambrosial aromas of dark black cherry, sugared raspberry, and fresh, juicy
plum, swirled seamlessly around wisps of caramel toffee, allspice, and freshly ground
espresso.

Palate

Equally effusive, the impeccably balanced palate rushes with red raspberry,
dark plum and cherry cordial flavors that are complemented by elegant tannins and
nuances of fine toasted oak, dark cocoa and sweet cream through the opulent finish.

Growing Conditions

Only the finest blocks of the most outstanding fruit are selected from
our 200 acres of estate vineyards across the Napa Valley for this special bottling.
Every vintage, the appellation composition of this wine will vary depending upon the
performance and character of each vineyard.

For 2010, the blend is composed of 55%
Stags Leap District, 42%, Rutherford, 2% Carneros and 1% Oakville fruit.

The 2010 vintage was cooler than usual during
the growing season, but ended with a heat wave.

Harvest

The fruit for this wine was
harvested at an optimal level of ripeness early to mid-October.

Winemaking

Fermentation took place
at a high temperature to ensure that maximum extraction was achieved.

Aging

Racked to 55% new French oak barrels. The wine was aged in barrel for a total of 18
months before bottling.

Food Pairing

With its dazzling complexity and astounding balance, this Cabernet is
the star of any meal it accompanies. A robust yet simple dish such as a dry-aged
Porterhouse steak with creamed spinach and sautéed mushroom caps would pair
beautifully with this wine. For a memorable cheese course, pair it with Berkswell, a
flavorful ewe’s milk cheese from England.