When modern agriculture returned to Rockpile, the renowned “noble” Bordeaux varietals were among the first planted on the estate. Rod and Cathy Park planted their first blocks with Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. These small lots are delicately blended to highlight some of the best characteristics of the terroir of the Rockpile American Viticultural Area.

The grapes were hand-harvested separately in small lots and brought to the winery for sorting, crushing, and a cold soak in stainless-steel tanks before a temperature-controlled fermentation with the native yeast. The resulting wine was then aged for 30 months in French oak barrels from Leroi before being bottled unfined.

Mesmerizing aromas of warm marionberry pie, cassis, and cigar box encourage a sip that displays flavors of wild blackberry, black olive, and toasted sage. A little decanting brings out various peppercorn spices and violet blossoms. Smooth tannins linger along with notes of Black cherry, tiramisu, and aged leather. Balanced fruit, earth, and spice characteristics make this the perfect pairing for smoked beef brisket with a red wine sauce. Enjoy responsibly now or cellar for the next decade-plus for additional development.