Martin Ray
2020 Cabernet Sauvignon
, Napa Valley
Oakville

94 Points, James Suckling

Blueberry, currant and sweet spice on the nose, with satiny layers of marionberry, and fresh macerated blackberries, surrounding a core of leather, tobacco leaf,  sandalwood, and tobacco.  Medium to full bodied, it's polished and creamy with nice weight on the mid palate.  Made Napa Valley Cabernet by "Rockstar" winemaker Keith Emerson, this is classic Oakville, has a propensity to age, it's depth is built on a foundation of distinct terroir, vibrant acidity and fine-grained tannins. 

This Delicious Napa Cab will age gracefully another 10+ years.

Vineyard
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
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, 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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