Promontory's "territory" (only 10% of which is planted) is located in the hills southwest of Oakville, and the balance of natural elements and lively nature brought about by the natural forests, morning mist steam, geographical factors and soil, and the energy produce fruit that is a concentrated blend of various elements. The aroma is full of graphite, wet rocks, black currants, blueberries, the aroma of burning charcoal, spices, and earthy nuances. The taste is full-bodied and has a solid concentration, with a rich mouthfeel and finely-grained tannins that give it a luxurious sweetness and presence. The wine is aged longer than other Harlan Group wines in large barrels made by Stockinger in Austria to polish the robust tannins.
The wines made from the hills of Promontory reflect the many elements of its "territory".
Untouched forests, the water vapor from morning fog, and the minerality brought about by geographical factors.
These personalities combine in a symphony, creating a vibrant natural balance, energy and concentrated tannins that are reflected in the wine, giving it vitality and the potential for long aging.
Vintage Information (Wine Director: Corey Empting, Winemaker: David Chile)
After a dry, warmer than average winter, the 2015 growing season got off to an early start with bud break occurring during the third week of March.
Due to the timing of flowering being in cool weather and the last three dry years, the vines themselves tended to keep fruit set to a minimum, which meant that fruit set was expected to be low and yields low.
Although temperatures rose from the end of August through September, with several days reaching above 38°C, the vines thrived and found their own way to ripen without becoming overripe.
Harvest began earlier than usual on September 8th, but was delayed due to the cold fog and winds that are characteristic of Promontory vineyards. The cool environment allowed for slow ripening in each parcel, allowing the picking period to continue over a long four-week period.
The harvest was divided into 54 batches based on maturity, resulting in 40 lots which were then vinified separately.
From the very start, the wine is full-bodied and well-balanced, while still expressing the special character of Promontory.
Tasting Notes (Wine Director: Corey Empting, Winemaker: David Chili)
Deep red colour with light nuances on the edges.
Bright aromas of red fruit rise from the glass and are enveloped in Promontory's characteristic aromas of wet stone, graphite, forest moss and subtle hints of laurel.
The attack is very gentle and elegant, and gradually the lively, rich fruitiness fills the mouth.
The tannins are magnificently voluminous, yet well-balanced, smoothly hydrating the palate.
The aftertaste is powerful and leaves a long-lasting, captivating impression.
Even at its latest release, this wine does not conceal or convince us that it has excellent aging potential for decades to come.
evaluation
Parker Point 98point The Wine Advocate, 15th Jan. 2021 by Lisa Perrotti-Brown
He will visit the winery in late 2020 and taste the wines with winemaker David Chiles, wine director Corey Empting, and president Will Harlan.
The color is deep purple with a slightly reddish edge, and the aroma of gorgeous red berries, black cherry compote, and rich cassis overflows from the glass with hints of cinnamon toast, dried rose flowers, unlit cigars, and nuances of forest rock and earth.
The palate is full-bodied, rich and impactful, with layers of red and black fruit and a strong sense of minerality from the soil.
The structure is firm, bordered by tannins and acidity, and the gorgeous fruitiness and firm tannins are beginning to harmonize, resulting in a wonderful finish and a lively vitality.
Vinos 97＋Point, Tasting date: Dec. 2020 by Antonio Galloni
As always, this is a unique and fascinating wine that expresses the character of the land, but the 2015 vintage has a more relaxed impression.
It is very interesting as it gives us a glimpse into how the grapes responded to the intense heat of that year.
As time passes, the fruit seems to become fresher, the aroma more pronounced, and the brightness increases.
It will be interesting to see how things change in 2015.
While we can only enjoy the present, it will be exciting to compare it to a very bright future.
Vintage: 2015
Capacity: 750ml
Type: Red wine
Taste: Full-bodied
Main variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Country of Origin: America
Region Name: California
AVA: Napa Valley
Notes: Limited stock Parker Point 98 points The Wine Advocate, 15th Jan. 2021 by Lisa Perrotti-Brown
Winemaker: David Chilli
Rating: 90P or above
Cap: Cork
Alcohol content: 14.5%
JAN: None