Martin Ray
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon
, Napa Valley
Diamond Mountain District

95 Points, James Suckling

Plush with marionberries, dried black currants, and white pepper built on a core of fresh plum and olive tapenade. A striking mineral-driven backbone with touches of wintergreen, and graphite, backed by fleshy acidity, and firm creamy tannins. Firm and polished with a velvety texture. Offers a flavorful and long satisfying finish.  This wine has a long life ahead and is truly intended for aging.

One of their most gripping and complex Cabernet's with depth and concentration that only comes from a high elevation, small, premier appellation.

VINEYARDS

Diamond Mountain Vineyard is high above the fog line, the unique mountain vineyard sites provide a variety of nutrient-rich soils, superior exposure to sunlight and evening cooling.

WINEMAKING NOTES

Fermented in small 4-6 ton open top fermenters, with thrice daily pump overs for cap management. Upon finishing fermentation the wine is allowed to rest on its skins for up to a month. Aged in 60% new French oak for 18 months.

VINTAGE

Starting with rain during bloom, 2019 transitioned into a steady, slow to warm spring. Temperate throughout the summer, offering only a couple intermittent heat spikes. Average yields and incredible quality with harvest beginning in early August.

Consulting Winemaker:  Keith Emerson
Vintage:  2019
Varietal Composition:  100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vineyard: Diamond Mountain Vineyard
Appellation:  Diamond Mountain District, Napa Valley
Aging:  Aged in 60% new French oak for 18 months.
Brix:  27.2
pH:  3.79
TA:  0.55 g/100ml
Alcohol:  14.8%

Tasting Notes  PDF

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