91 Points, Wine Enthusiast
Plenty of room for many years of aging with its silky tannin structure.
Favorite pairings include rosemary and herb crusted lamb chops, beef skewers, and cherry glazed pork loin.
VINEYARD
Located in the foothills of Sonoma Valley, this storied estate hillside vineyard rubs shoulders with some of the finest terroirs in Sonoma County, such as Bismark, Rancho Salina, and is adjacent to the famous Monte Rosso Vineyard. The Caton Vineyard is defined by its sustainable farming and belief that healthier vineyards produce unique and distinctive wines. The vineyards have multiple sun exposures, soil types, and vary in altitude over 300 feet between each other. Their meticulous farming practices showcase the love for the land and a passion for the wines that come from it. 3.13 acres of Clone 3 Merlot were planted with East-West row direction leading into a ravine. The deep, rocky volcanic soil on the vineyard is rich with iron clay - an ideal atmosphere for producing the highest quality crop with slow even ripening.
VINTAGE
The 2021 harvest is reported to be one of the best vintages in recent harvests for Northern California. The ongoing draught presented some challenges - limited rainfall and warm growing conditions throughout the summer months resulted in a speedy harvest with lighter yields. The conditions brought smaller berries with exceptional- quality and concentrated flavors.
Winemaker: Ty Caton
Appellation: Moon Mountain District, Sonoma Valley
Vineyard: Estate Grown, Caton Vineyard
Varietals: 100% Merlot
Cooperage: 18 Months, 50% new French Oak
Farming Practices: Certified Sustainable
Alcohol: 14.3%
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Dark ruby red in the glass, and good swirl on the nose offers generous aromatics of cassis, black cherry and spice. Generously oaked, with crushed blackberry, baked plums, baking spices, and Turkish fig. A supple body, gives way to red and dark fruit like plum, blueberry compote, prune, with anise and light spice on the finish.
92 Points
Lofty aromas of ripe red fruits layered with notes of crushed violets, berry cobbler, cherry and creme brulee leading into crushed blackberry with cassis, mocha, leather, mineral, and baking spice. Its all encompassing and bold mouthfeel are outstanding, as deep tannins dance around the palate, finishing with flavors of blackberry, fig, and pipe tobacco.
Exceptional
Aromas of bright oak, essence of lilac, toasted brioche and sage delight your senses. Flavors are just as complex with hints of soft melted butter, quince, fig, and a touch of lavender that titillate your taste buds. Its delightful texture is balanced by great acidity, leading to a long satisfying finish. Truly a chardonnay lovers Chardonnay.
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