Ratings & Tasting Notes:

No tasting notes found.

Cult Wines International Notes:

The Checkerboard Vineyards ‘Aurora’ Red Wine is the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend (often featuring a small amount of Petit Verdot) sourced exclusively from the Aurora Vineyard on the steep slopes of Diamond Mountain in Napa Valley. The vineyard sits at an elevation of approximately 1,200 feet, featuring unique, well-drained volcanic soils riddled with basalt cobble and red loamy clay. This dramatic, high-altitude terroir, coupled with the meticulous craftsmanship of winemaker Martha McClellan (known for her work at Harlan Estate and Sloan), results in a wine celebrated for its power, finesse, and structure.

The ‘Aurora’ is typically characterized by a luxurious, layered palate featuring intense dark fruits like cassis, ripe blackberry, and dark cherry, interwoven with complex tertiary notes of sweet pipe tobacco, semi-sweet chocolate, green olive, and graphite. It is distinguished by its statuesque yet polished tannins and impressive aging potential, benefiting from time in the cellar or a lengthy decant when young. Critics frequently praise the wine for its elegance, long finish, and its ability to beautifully balance rich, concentrated Napa fruit with the distinct savory minerality imparted by its mountain origins.

Bottle Size:

750 mL

Storage History:

Always stored on it’s side in a climate controlled cellar.

Condition:

Perfect condition.