Planted in 1999, on the lower slopes of the Mayacamas range. This hillside vineyard rests on river deposits from the flow of the Napa River thousands of years ago. The size of sediments varies throughout the vineyard with medium-sized rocks found at the higher elevations and small pebbles in the lower portion of the site. Facing southeast along the Mayacamas mountain range foothills. Later day sunlight can be intense, resulting in growing seasons where the grapes reach optimal ripeness.

St. Helena experienced moderate weather throughout the growing season in 2017 and put little pressure on the vineyards and provided the grapes with well-balanced chemistry and intense flavors. Individual lots from lower elevation blocks were fermented and aged separately to allow the broadest range of flavors at blending.

Crafted from two VSP trained rows of clone 337 Cabernet. Fermented in concrete and finished in medium+ toast new French oak for 21 months. The idea here, produce and assemble a wine of refined workmanship while allowing the wild nature of this rocky vineyard to show through.

As in previous vintages, this wine continues to impress me with its heavy-duty styling. Almost black in color with forceful aromas of crushed black cherry. I feel like luck is on my side. 2017 granted me a little exoticism. The palate is medium plus-bodied with intense, crushed plums infused with dark berry fruit. The palate is striking with life-affirming tension. So happy with the result. Expect seamless aging for the next 6-15 years.