St. Helena’s northern location on the valley floor means that it experiences only occasional morning fogs; this makes for a fairly hot appellation. Because of this, Cabernet Sauvignon from St. Helena tends to be quite decadent, with higher alcohols. This AVA has an unusual shape, like an hourglass, as it encompasses the narrowest part of the valley. The northern half of the appellation is similar in feel and temperature to Calistoga, while the southern half is kin with Rutherford. The soils vary from gravelly loam in the west to volcanic in the east. The appellation is also unique in that it contains alluvial fans on both sides of the valley.

The beginning of the growing season was defined by rainfall and late soil moisture. The long, warm summer saw few extreme heat events, with foggy mornings setting the stage for vibrant and expressive wines. The long finish to the season, not without moments of unpredictability, helped to preserve freshness and finesse in the fruit with abundant hang time teasing out great color, structure and soft tannins. Volume is looking to be about average to a little less than average. All in all, exceptional fruit with bright acidity and ample texture promises an amazing vintage.

Deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts from the glass with lilacs, dark chocolate, ripe black and red cherries, and licorice notes plus hints of cedar. Medium to full-bodied, finely grained, and elegant, the palate offers an intensity of crunchy black and red fruits, finishing long and fragrant.