Harvest

The 2013 harvest was early, even and excellent, with all of our Estate fruit in the winery by October 10th. A warm dry spring brought an early bud break and created ideal conditions for flowering and fruit set. In the weeks after Labor Day, a moderate heat event followed by a period of perfect weather created a dream scenario for end-of-season ripening. Rain was not a factor, and for the second vintage in a row, the quality of the grapes was exceptional throughout Napa Valley.

Winemaking

Inspired by the iconic wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this luscious Syrah-based blend offers an inviting nose of ripe berries and vanilla cream, as well as more savory underlying hints of meat and spice. On the palate, flavors of rich dark berry are underscored by lovely textural elements from barrel aging. Combining the best attributes of both cool and warm climate Syrah, the finish offers lingering notes of ripe berry, bacon and peppery spice.

Aging

Aging & Oak 18 months in oak, 100% French oak 60% New oak, 40% 2nd vintage