93 Points, James Suckling
VINEYARDS
From a collection of tiny vineyard blocks encompassing several row orientations and slopes, all carefully planted to optimize sun exposure, in soil that is composed of ancient volcanic alluvial runoff.
WINEMAKING NOTES
Fermented in small 4-6 ton open top fermenters. Maintained moderate temperature until dry, and then basket pressed. Aged in 45% 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: Stags Leap District, Napa Valley
Aging: Aged in 45% new French oak for 18 months.
Brix: 24.6
pH: 3.79
TA: 0.58 g/100ml
Alcohol: 13.8%
95 Points
Rich and full-bodied, packed with dark fruit flavors of blackberry, ripe plum, and dark cherry. Notes of cocoa, cedar, and warm spice add complexity, while firm tannins and a touch of volcanic minerality reflect the bold characteristics of Calistoga’s terroir. Full-bodied in texture, and remarkably velvety. The tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit.
92 Points
Deep floral notes (violets), blackberry, black cherry, and cassis. Driven by the mountain's steep, cool-climate terroir, it balances rich notes of blackberry and pomegranate seamlessly intertwined with dark plum, cocoa dust, and roasted mocha, hints of roasted mocha and spice undertones add depth to its complex profile, culminating in a bold, yet elegant finish.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
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