Palate
As the vines in Panek Vineyard mature, we’re noticing a savory element in the
wine that adds a pleasant complexity to what has been a consistent, generously
fruited palate. In 2014, we return to the familiar red-black fruit pro le, greater
acidity, and caramelized sugar qualities that distinguish Cabernet Sauvignon from
this site. the ten-year mark seems to be a magical one for Cabernet Sauvignon
plantings in Napa Valley, and Panek Vineyard has hit its tenth anniversary with a
2014 wine that shows a walnut skin quality that makes a savory counterpoint to
the familiar maple syrup character.
Those who delighted in the 2012 Pulido~Walker from Panek Vineyard have
cause to celebrate the arrival of this vintage with its more intricate expression.
While cellaring is certainly an option for this lush Cabernet Sauvignon, you may
also enjoy the 2014 now with its return to the customarily generous fruit profile,
enhanced by a new complexity
Growing Conditions
As the 2013 Napa Valley vintage continues to rack up accolades,
Pulido~Walker winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown is well pleased with the
refreshing transparency he sees in the 2014 vintage. The third in a trifecta of
near-ideal Napa Valley growing seasons despite prolonged drought conditions,
2014 is showing greater varietal and site expression across the valley. These
wines are differentiating themselves early, which promises to give wine lovers
a reason to taste widely and explore wines of distinct character.
Bottling
Bottling Date: June 13, 2016
Winemaking
The 2014 Pulido~Walker Cabernet Sauvignon from Panek Vineyard is a
return to the generous fruit profile we expect from this site. Fruit stayed on the
skins a few days longer in tank to impart deeper color and a more robust palate,
and the wine concentrated nicely in barrel—an especially welcome development
for vineyard-designate wines from the valley floor. Of the five clones fermented
and aged separately, once again Clones 6, 7, and 169 comprise the final blend.
Aging
Aging: 20 months in 100% French
oak (70% new barrels)
Barrel Coopers: Ermitage and
Darnajou
