94 Points - Wine Enthusiast "Hidden Gem"
VINEYARDS
Working with the Bismark and Viluko Vineyards high in the mountains of the Mayacamas range just above and to the north of Sonoma Valley. Chosen barrels from Pine Mountain Vineyard were added further to the mountain fruit blend. These vineyards sit high above the fog where the grapes benefit from abundant sunshine, with the cooling effect of the underlying sea breezes that rolls in during the summer months. Perfect conditions were in line to produce Cabernet Sauvignon that were among the best in the region.
WINEMAKING
Enkidu set out to produce a Cabernet Sauvignon of the highest quality while maintaining the integrity of its origin. After the fruit was hand harvested and destemmed, whole berries were transferred to small open top tanks to undergo a four day cold soak. A 20% Saignée was performed early to concentrate the juice further. Native fermentation commenced after 5 days until complete. The lots were pressed after resting for 21 additional days. The wines would age for 19 months in 70% specially selected new French oak. Gentle rackings were performed with no fining.
VINTAGE
By all accounts, 2021 was an extraordinary vintage across the Sonoma appellations, yielding wines with depth, power, concentration and excellent acid retention, perfect for long-lived aging and a distinct sense of place. Marked by moderate weather, minimal heat spikes, and a long, stable weather pattern, which allowed for gradual and even ripening. While the drought conditions of the previous years persisted, the absence of prolonged heat events resulted in a smooth harvest with naturally low yields, leading to more concentrated flavors and a powerful tannin structure in the wines. The wines from this vintage are known for their intense aromas and flavors, with small berries resulting in high skin-to-juice ratios, which contribute to the wines powerful tannin structure. 2021 is a collector's vintage.
APPELLATION: Sonoma County
VARIETAL: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
HARVEST DATES: September 22nd - October 18th
AGING: 19 Months in 70% New French oak barrels
BOTTLING DATE: May 9, 2023
TA: 6.01 gms/L
pH: 3.67
ALCOHOL: 14.2%
Temperature Control Shipping
All Central, Midwest & Eastern orders ship via temp control truck.
All Wines
99 Point Vintage
Bold and luxurious, rich and forward with a deep garnet-purple color, it strides confidently out of the glass with subtle hints of herbs de Provence, lavender, into black fruit with notes of crushed blueberries, fresh blackberry, warm cassis, tobacco and barrel spices galore.
94 Points
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.
94 Points
Deep garnet-purple in color and strides confidently out of the glass with notes of crushed blueberries, ripe blackberry, and warm cassis with hints of cherry, black olive, currant and a touch of black pepper.
96 Points
Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
94 Points
Deep garnet in color from the ripe 2018 vintage, with open aromas of lush fruit – plum, blackberry, and cherry, and notes of cedar, vanilla, and white pepper. Across the palate it's quite seamless and silky, rich and concentrated. The fruit flavors are bold and vibrant. Mouth-filling with smooth tannins, great texture and a long delicious finish.
92 Points
Aromas of blackberry, dried fig, black cherry, blackberry coulis, toasted vanilla, and a hint of cigar box. The palate offers rich and velvety tannins, dark chocolate-covered cherries, black plum, mixed berry pie and toasted walnut. Long and expressive with loads of flavor.
Luxurious & Delicious...
Aromas of rich cherry, black currant, dark plums, with hints of lightly toasted vanilla, mint and crushed slate. The concentrated flavors further integrate with blackberries, tobacco, anise and earthiness with a balanced oak profile, layered palette, leaving you with its delightful finish.
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