Meaning “hillside” in Portuguese, Encosta is the beginning. This Cabernet was originally created to showcase the youthful vibrancy of the vines planted by our team when the property was first acquired. Perched on Pritchard Hill, Gandona Estate blends Portuguese heritage with Napa Valley terroir, farming 17 acres of estate vines on steep, volcanic soils with concrete fermenters that give the wines more minerality, a different tannic structure, and a sweeter fruit profile. Encosta opens with aromas of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, complemented by notes of cedar, graphite, and warm spice.