Made with grapes from Calistoga and Oak Knoll. Aromas of charred oak and graphite with currant, clove and cassis. Flavors reminiscent of ripe fruit, refined mouthfeel with sweet tobacco aroma. Finish with chocolate-like tannins. (2013 VTG was ranked number one in Wine Spectator's 2016 Top 100 Wines)
Vintage Information
Both spring and summer in 2020 were generally cool and mild.
Heat waves in early August, the first Monday weekend of September and in late September accelerated grape ripening and the vegetative cycle, allowing many wineries to receive their white wine varieties before the wildfires began.
Many red wine varieties were harvested earlier than normal, picking the grapes in advance of the fires in late September, allowing the red wines to be produced.
A thorough analysis of the impact of the smoke was conducted, and although production was lower than usual, only wines worthy of bearing Napa Valley on the label were bottled.
(Excerpt from California Wine Board Harvest Report)
Technical information
The grapes are harvested when fully ripe, selected, destemmed, and then aged at low temperature. They are then fermented in sealed fermentation tanks, pressed, and aged in French barrels (approximately 80% new barrels).
Tasting Comments
Aromas of black currant, cedar and beeswax.
Layers of cocoa-dusted truffle, toffee crunch and black fig flavours are delicately woven into rich, delicious chocolate for a lasting impression from start to finish.
Although it is modest in strength, the flavor gains weight in the finish, producing a long finish.
Field Information
A blend of grapes from the terraces (gentle slopes toward the foot of the mountains) in the foothills of Oak Knoll, Atlas Peak, and Calistoga.
Vintage: 2020
Capacity: 750ml
Type: Red wine
Taste: Full-bodied
Main variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Country of Origin: America
Region Name: California
AVA: Napa Valley
Winemaker: Josh Widaman
Vinification: Fermented in closed tanks
Aging: Aged in French barrels (80% new barrels)
Cap: Cork
Alcohol content: 15.5%