Following HOT on the heels of one of the Best US Cabernets as mentioned by Wine & Spirits Magazine, this 2017 is no slouch! Simply put, it is brimming with confidence. Soaring aromatics are the first striking thing you’ll notice. Next, fine-tuned layers of red & black fruits, roasted herbs & spices, unsweetened cocoa develop in the glass with a particularly beautiful potency. With time in the glass, the touch of austerity yields to a delicious and cerebral complexity.

Rutherford, with its red-fruit purity, continued to be a central part of our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon program, while Yountville brought delicious vivacity, and St. Helena provided the impressive complexity. Once in the winery, the fruit experienced minimal racking with 26-month aging in 45% new French oak and was bottled, unfined, and unfiltered in December 2019. The extended bottle-rest allowed the various components to fully integrate.

It’s become instructive–and enjoyable—to consider our newest Cabernet Sauvignon release alongside recent vintages. If 2015 was fun and fleshy, and 2016 was deep and daring, 2017 is brimming with confidence. Like a sinewy cross-fitter built from struggle, this wine fully challenges the perception of a “down vintage.” Soaring aromatics are the first striking thing you’ll notice. Next, fine-tuned layers of red & black fruits, roasted herbs & spices, unsweetened cocoa develop in the glass with a particularly beautiful potency. With time in the glass, the touch of austerity yields to a delicious and cerebral complexity. Drink over 5-8 years – decant if opening before 2022.