The St. Helena estate vineyards are comprised of 3 main
vineyards - Gretch, McCarthy and Wheeler Farms - which
are located just north of the winery. These vineyards are
located on gravelly alluvial fan soil with excellent drainage,
an essential component in high quality fruit development.
The vines are less vigorous in this area of the Napa Valley,
producing smaller berries and lower yields, for more
concentrated, intense wines with good tannin structure. The
wine is produced to showcase the terroir and distinct flavor
characteristics of these vineyards.
The 2007 growing season exhibited many exceptional
indicators that began with early bud break, followed by
mild spring and summer weather patterns, thus extending
ripening periods for many varietals including Cabernet
Sauvignon. Low winter rainfall and a mild summer with few
heat spikes fostered even grape ripening.
The grapes were fermented on the skins for ten days with
pumpovers twice daily. After fermentation, the wine was
gently pressed, racked and aged for 19 months in 100%
French oak barrels, with 35% in new oak Nadalie and
Chalafour coopers. Tightly grained French oak barrels
impart their oak to wines slowly for a consistent, wellrounded aging process while yielding subtle oak influences
to the Cabernet Sauvignon.
Aromas of bright red fruit, rhubarb, and sandalwood
permeate the glass and pleasant notes of red licorice and
orange pekoe tea complete the bouquet. The entry of this
Cabernet is soft and silky with flavors of black cherry and
dark chocolate that broaden on the mid-palate and lead to a
long, strong finish.