This stunning wine opens with a distinct scorched earth and currant aroma. The wine quickly opens into an opulent blend of ripe blackberry, bing cherry, leather, and anise. The first sip intrigues with luxurious weight, opulent oak notes, and rich fruit notes while the finish is persistent with well rounded tannins and a silky finish.
2016 marked the fifth consecutive year of a punishing drought in Northern California; however, most of Napa Valley was fortunate to receive 28½ inches of rain; most of which fell before March; making the soil conditions ideal for budbreak that began precociously the first week in March. Conditions in August were perfect for ripening and moderate temperatures persisted up until harvest with only a temporary heat spike in early September. Harvest began under mild conditions which allowed the vineyard team to be more selective and work at a steady pace.