Ratings & Tasting notes:
From the winery:
2019 started off with a bang! Torrential rains began to fall in January and by the end of March, over 31″ of rain had fallen in the valley. The Napa River overflowed and created road closures and flooding. Spring followed and was unseasonably cool, which delayed budbreak across the valley, leading many to question the quality of the season.
However, this is why 2019 is the year of dichotomy. While the year began violently, it quickly switched to mild, consistent and deliberate. The summer was long, but steady without any heat spikes. The beautiful morning fog preserved precious acidity in the grapes and allowed us a gentle, long growing season and unrushed harvest. 2019 is quickly becoming known as a “classic” Napa Valley growing season, creating wines which are approachable now yet still destined for long-term cellaring.
2019 Tasting Notes:
Oakville is known for creating Napa’s most prestigious wines, and our 2019 is no exception. Many say our wines lean quite “French” in style, and we certainly don’t consider this disparaging. In a world surrounded by “fruit & alcohol first” we fight to create wines immersed in balance & representative of the terroir.
Tim Mondavi said it best, when he said he was “going against what Mother Nature has given California” and we are trying to do just the opposite.
Wine color is a brooding garnet hue with a bright violet rim.
On the nose: A celestial bouquet of spring flowers, pomegranate, blueberry, raspberry and freshly crushed black currant with vanilla and Spanish cedar nuances.
On the palate the texture is sophisticated, opulent and mouth-filling. A purity of blue & black fruit shine immediately, followed by gently toasted sandalwood, and red fruit on the back end of the palate. A kaleidoscope of earth and mineral complexities begin to emerge during repeated tastings. Tannins are ultra fine-grained and highly polished. A persistent, graceful finish which lasts over a minute. Gradually drifting off with sweet cherry and milk chocolate suggestions.
Bottle Size:
750 mL
Storage History:
Purchased direct from the winery and stored in a climate controlled cellar on its side in the dark at 55 degrees F and 75% humidity since purchase.
Condition:
Perfect.
