Martin Ray
2020 Cabernet Sauvignon
, Oakville
Napa Valley

94 Points, James Suckling

Blueberry, currant and sweet spice on the nose, clean and focused with silky layers of lush red fruit, surrounding a center core of damp earth and graphite. Subtle notes of sandalwood, and tobacco. Medium-bodied, polished and creamy with firm yet well-rounded tannins.  Nice weight on the mid palate.
Made by Napa Valley Cabernet from "Rockstar" winemaker Keith Emerson.  Classic Oakville, with a propensity to age, this wine’s depth is built on a foundation of distinct terroir, vibrant acidity and lush tannins. Delicious!

This Napa Cab will age gracefully for 10+ years.
Start the grill and bring on the meats.

VINEYARDS

Volcanic benchland vineyards in the heart of Napa Valley east of the Mayacamas Range from a collection of tiny vineyard blocks all carefully planted to optimize sun exposure, in soil that is composed of ancient volcanic alluvial runoff and fine-grained loam.

WINEMAKING NOTES

Fermented in small 4-6 ton open top fermenters. Maintained moderate temperature until dry, and then basket pressed. Aged in 40% new
French oak for 18 months.

VINTAGE

Although 2020 was met with several hurdles, from historical fires to a global pandemic, we will forever recall the vintage to be one of resilience, perseverance, and unity.  Shifts in temperature throughout the season resulted in shorter hangtime and lower yields, but the fruit retained bright acidity, resulting in lively wines.  Diligence in testing coupled with a dedicated team proved key to navigating 2020. While yields may be a bit lessened, quality was fantastic.

Consulting Winemaker:  Keith Emerson
Vintage:  2020
Varietal Composition:  100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation:  Oakville, Napa Valley
Aging:  Aged in 40% new French oak for 18 months.
Brix:  24.2
pH:  3.74
TA:  0.59 g/100ml
Alcohol:  14.1%

Tasting Notes  PDF

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