Wine Notes
Vintage:
2022
Appellation:
Oakville, Napa Valley
Vineyards:
The vineyard source for Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the famous Oakville sub-appellation of Napa Valley. It is from the eastern side, at the base of the Vaca Ridge on an alluvial fan that is well known for its rich, red, iron containing soils, a perfect combination with west-facing aspect and spiciness from the iron.
The Malbec and Petit Verdot hail from our long time, consistent vineyard in Yountville with its alluvial soils and warm Region II climate. The Malbec adds color, layered black fruit with full, round tannins. The Petit Verdot adds color, high-tone perfume aromatics and round, dense tannins.
Vintage Notes:
Every season in 2022 held a surprise. Winter rainfall was 16-17”, about half of normal. Spring bud break was “on time” but in late April, northern California experienced extreme cold below 35F and several vineyards had some partial to severe frost damage. Summer weather was normally warm until September 5-7 when the western states experienced a “heat dome” with temperatures hitting 114-120F three afternoons in a row. Fortunately, there was minimal damage in Oakville and the harvest progressed normally and finished on time with very positive results.
Fermentation & Aging:
The vineyards were picked from late September (Malbec) through late October (Cabernet). Average Brix was 25-27° with acids from 6-7 grams/liter and the pHs ranging from 3.7 to 3.9. The grapes were sorted removing green fruit. Fermentation was done in stainless steel tanks. The must was pumped over until a cap formed, then sprinkle irrigated during the fermentation. Pressing was gentle, using both basket and tank presses. The barrel regime was 100% tight grain French, with about 30% new. Malolactic fermentation was completed in barrel. The final blend was completed in December 2024 and bottled in February of 2025.