Nose
This vintage has aromas of ripe jammy berries, oak, and licorice.
Palate
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied wine. The rounded mouthfeel is persistent in the long and lingering opulent finish. With a good tannin structure and balanced acidity on the palate, you can taste hints of vanilla, black cherry, cassis, and plum.
Growing Conditions
The historic Priest Ranch is now part of Somerston Estate, a significant property totaling 1,682 acres with 244 acres of hillside vineyards. The wines of Priest Ranch are sourced from multiple blocks, showcasing the diversity and complexity of the combined property. Our 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon came from 24 unique vineyard blocks, planted at elevations from 850 to 1650 ft asl.
Harvest
The first half of 2018 brought us moderate temperatures allowing for a long growing season. We had a majority of our rainfall in February, followed by a wet spring. Then summer brought consistent temperatures with little heat spikes.
This weather allowed for longer hang time and for the fruit to ripen at a balanced rate.
Winemaking
Priest Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon was aged 20 months in 40% new French oak and 60% once-used French oak barrels. The lees were stirred for the first year followed by three racking in the second year of aging. The wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered.
