Nose
Bold and intense aromas of licorice, blueberry, couverture and
aged tobacco.
Palate
The palate is dense, dark and powerful with mulberry
and blackberry fruit complimented by chocolate and aniseed.
Luscious mouth filling tannins balance the rich fruit character to
provide great length for this wonderfully intense wine.
Growing Conditions
Established in 1973 on the lower slopes and foothills of the
Mayacamas Mountains directly above the town of Yountville in
the heart of the Napa Valley region. This celebrated site is unique
in the combination of alluvial valley floor and rocky foothills
with a predominantly eastern aspect at between 150-350 feet
in altitude. The principle moderating influence on the local
climate is the heavy fogs that linger until late in the morning
providing a cooling influence as it flows south down the valley to
the San Pablo Bay. The wines represent classical Napa Cabernet
with rich bold and round flavors, dark chocolate and a silky rich
mouth filling structure.
The 2015 season was one of contrasts. The vintage was noted
by significantly reduced yields (-35-50%) a result of a cool and
damp flowering period in Spring which resulted in poor fruit set
and fewer berries per bunch. The Summer and Autumn were
hot and dry continuing the run of drought conditions which
commenced from the 2012 vintage. The quality of the fruit was
outstanding although in limited supply with the vintage likely to
be recognized as one of Napa Valley’s greatest. A truly classic Napa Cabernet with an exuberance of youth which
will evolve beautifully with medium to long term cellaring.
Harvest
Harvest dates: September 8 - 11, 2015
Winemaking
The 2015 Yountville was a selection of blocks 311, 312 and 314
with an average vine age of 19 years. Once harvested, the grapes
were hand-sorted to inspect individual berries. The must was then
fermented in separate lots and barrel aged for 12 months before
being blended and returned to barrel for further maturation.
