Nose
Black fruits of loganberry, boysenberry and plum mingle with salted
heirloom olives,cigar box and fresh herbs create an exciting aromatic
profile
Palate
Fine grain tannins present themselves throughout the front,
middle and finish of this wine demonstrating the intrinsic mountain fruit
harvested at optimal ripeness.While the aromatics suggest a fruitful
mouth, the rocky soils provide a surprising counterpoint of silky
minerality and flavors of fresh plums, firm blackberries and a classic
semblance of cassis, suede and sandalwood.
Growing Conditions
The vineyard is located high atopAtlas Peak between 1,270-1,350 feet on
15 acres of stony, volcanic soil, sitting at the edge of a steep canyon
overlooking Foss Valley.The property was purchased and planted by the
Michael Mondavi family in 1999.The Cabernet Sauvignon vines are of the
Clone 4 variety planted on 110R rootstock, producing structured fruit
with ample tannins and acid to balance the concentrated dark fruit flavors.
A classic Napa Valley growing season and harvest provided an abundance
of quality grapes from which winemakers had to choose in 2012. From
spring bud break, through flowering, fruit set, and ripening, conditions
were ideal.A consistent stretch of warm summer weather, without large
heat spikes and with plenty of cool and foggy nights, ripened grapes to
perfection before late rains appeared at the end of October.
Winemaking
After the grapes were hand-harvested, de-stemmed and crushed, the juice
cold soaked for four days prior to fermentation in stainless steel.
Aeration and cap management is handled through a series of punch-downs
and pump-overs for color and tannin extraction. Upon completion of
fermentation, the lots macerate on the skins for 28-35 days before being
pressed off.
Aging
The wine is barrel aged in 87% new French oak for 20
months before bottling.
