"Liquid Cashmere" is an apt description of Viadia wines.
Aged 20 months in French barrels (74% new barrels). Grown on the steep east-facing slopes on the way to Howell Mountain AVA, this wine has a rich flavor with firm tannins, but also a supple, gentle mouthfeel like cashmere thanks to the large amount of Cabernet Franc blended in. It has a long finish and can be enjoyed immediately, but it can also be expected to age well.
Vintage Information
In 2019, heavy rains fell early in the year, deeply moistening the soil and encouraging strong bud growth in early spring.
Temperatures rose rapidly, resulting in a long, warm summer, but with few heat waves, allowing the fruit to develop intense colour and aromas.
A relatively mild summer allowed for long hang time, which maintained the freshness of the fruit and contributed to the complex flavours and soft tannins.
At harvest, we had great fruit with clean acidity and rich texture.
Technical information
Harvest season: September 25th to October 5th
Vinification: The grapes were harvested at night and aged for a long period (average 52 days) in a combination of concrete tanks, French casks and stainless steel tanks.
The wine is then transferred to French barrels (74% new) and aged on the lees for 8 months.
During the first six months, the wine is gently batonnaged (stirred) - something that is unusual for red wine.
It was aged in barrels for a total of 20 months.
Tasting Comments
Powerful entry with vibrant aromas of bright cherry and cassis, layered with caramel, crushed dried lavender, pie syrup, licorice and cigar box.
The palate is smooth and silky with cassis and black fruit flavours.
Ripe, fine-grained tannins give it concentration and complexity, and it's incredibly balanced.
The finish has floral notes and a mouth-watering acidity that makes you want to take another sip.
It can be aged for 15 years from the vintage.
We recommend aging for 5 to 7 years before drinking.
Vintage: 2019
Capacity: 750ml
Type: Red wine
Taste: Full-bodied
Main variety: Cabernet Sauvignon 58%
Blend Variety: Cabernet Franc 42%
Country of Origin: America
Region Name: California
AVA: Napa Valley
Vineyard: Viader Estate
Note: Limited quantity available
Winemaker: Alan Viader
Vinification: Concrete tuns, French barrels and stainless steel tanks
Aging: 20 months in French barrels (74% new barrels)
Cap: Cork
Alcohol content: 14.8%