Nose
This complex wine dances between fruit forward and savory notes on the nose and on the palate. There are generous aromas and flavors of wild blueberry that intermingle with notes of olive, mushroom, and wet forest floor.
Palate
The palate is layered and rich with a velvety texture. This wine is wonderful young or can be aged at least 5 years.
Growing Conditions
The 2016 vintage was a textbook season for the Napa Valley. We saw a return to average winter rainfall with steady rain all winter. Bud break happened slightly earlier and fruit set was solid. As summer approached we saw the return of Napa Valley fog that kept the nighttime temperatures cool allowing the mid-day temperatures to rise for perfect grape ripening weather.
Bottling
Bottled June 2018
Winemaking
All the Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that make up this blend are from the Stagecoach Vineyard on Atlas Peak. The Syrah is from a choice block at Stagecoach that faces southwest which is planted to French clone 877. The Merlot is from another south facing block and is one of the older blocks planted at Stagecoach Vineyard. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are from block 8, which is one of the highest and oldest blocks planted at Stagecoach. All grapes were picked between September 23 and October 4 between 26.7 and 27.8 brix.
Aging
19 months in French Oak, 25% new.
