A blend of Howell Mountain's own Stout Vineyard and Howell Mountain's contracted vineyards. Complex aromas of sweet spices such as cinnamon, blackberries, anise, cloves, and mint. In the mouth, richly ripe dark berries, firm tannins, and fine minerals from the soil all combine to express the characteristics of "Yama Kabe".
Howell Mountain is well-known as a producer of rich, deep Cabernet Sauvignon with firm tannins, fruitiness, and the potential for long-term aging. Duckhorn Vineyards has been making wine from grapes from Howell Mountain for over a quarter century since 1989. In order to fully bring out the complexity of this region, Duckhorn ages its wines in bottle for one year longer than normal wines before releasing them.
Vintage Information
A mild spring and summer with no heatwaves created a nearly perfect growing environment for both white and black grapes. The ideal climate for Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon gave them tropical aromas and ripe fruit flavors without too much sugar. The Chardonnay was harvested three weeks later than usual. It was delivered to the winery in perfect condition and produced a dynamic and complex wine. The Bordeaux red wine varieties had a slightly higher yield than usual, allowing all the grapes to ripen evenly. In the fall, each block was harvested at the optimum ripeness, resulting in a juicy, flawless wine with luxurious, mellow tannins and a firm structure.
Tasting Comments
The aroma of sweet spices such as cinnamon and allspice, black raspberry, cassis, and blackberry is complemented by subtle aromas of anise, clove, and mint, giving it complexity. In the mouth, the rich flavors of ripe dark berries and spices are balanced with firm tannins and powdery minerals, leading to a long, rich finish. This wine expresses the characteristics of "Yama Kabe" well.
Vintage: 2018
Capacity: 750ml
Type: Red wine
Taste: Full-bodied
Main variety: Cabernet Sauvignon 92%
Blend Variety: Merlot 8%
Country of Origin: America
Region Name: California
AVA: Napa Valley
Nested AVAs, Others: Howell Mountain
Vineyard: Stout Vineyard, with contract vineyards in Howell Mountain
Winemaker: Rnee Ary
Aging: Aged 18 months in French barrels (50% new) followed by 6 months in barrels that have been used for several years. Aged for a total of 24 months.
Cap: Cork
Alcohol content: 14.5%
JAN: 669576018583