The 2011 vintage started with unseasonably late rainfall in June which disrupted fruit set. This variable rain and low temperatures reduced the number and size of berries on each cluster yet increased concentration of the fruit.

The Vineyards (owned by Leroy & Patty Young) The Young Ridge Estate Vineyard is surrounded by two vineyard blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon. These blocks sit high on the ridge to the west of the town of Napa adjoining to Brown’s Valley. This area on the edge of the Carneros district is characterized by a long, moderately cool growing season sweetened by the breezes and lingering fog of the San Pablo Bay, temperatures in this American vinicultural area (AVA) are slightly cooler than Burgundy, yet slightly warmer than Champagne. As such, Carneros provides optimum conditions for the slow, even ripening of and perfect balance in Cabernet Sauvignon. 100% Cabernet planted in 1992

The Pope Valley Ranch (99 acres) was purchased in 1995. This block consists mostly of Cabernet Sauvignon (94%) but also has some Petite Verdot, Malbec, Cab Franc and Zinfandel. Hugo loam is the principle soil used to grow these vines. It is spring fed from Aetna Springs (Pope Valley Property) and was named after a nearby hot spring. The spring was so named by the owner of the Aetna Mines, John Lawley, when he discovered the spring in the 1880s. Elevation is at 771 feet. 60 acres planted.