Tasting Notes:

Winemaker Notes

Checkerboard Kings Row is produced from grapes grown in the Aurora Vineyard which is located in a small valley midway up Diamond Mountain on a large knoll at an elevation of 1,200 feet. The knoll projects off the mountainside, giving the vineyard full southern exposure, open light from the east and west, and protection from Napa Valley’s summer fog. Six acres are planted in the knoll’s rich, volcanic soils that are riddled with basalt cobble and loamy clay. The remaining six acres are planted in a deep gravely mix of white volcanic ash and chips of decomposed Rhyolite that were washed down from the steep, rocky crags of Diamond Mountain above. Checkerboard Kings Row is a complex wine showcasing the Bordeaux varietals grown in the Aurora Vineyard. The nose is a swirl of dark red fruits, baking spice, and sandalwood. On the palate, the fruit dominates and offers hints of dried crushed herbs, black pepper, and freshly pressed espresso. There’s a juicy core which is persistent from the approach through to the finish.

Winemaker : Martha McClellan

Martha received her degree in Oenology and Viticulture from Geisenheim University and started her career in the wineries of Germany. She worked at Weingut Dr. Bürklin-Wolf, and after 10 years in Europe, returned to the US to join Merryvale. Martha eventually moved to Harlan Estate and left in 2001 to begin her highly successful winemaking consulting company. Martha joined Checkerboard in 2006 and produced the first vintage in 2007.

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 properly in a climate controlled cellar.

Condition:

Perfect