For years we have used the exceptional Cabernet Franc from our Patzimaro Vineyard located at the base of Spring Mountain to add depth, complexity and compelling mid-palate structure to our Cabernet Sauvignons and Bordeaux-varietal blends. In this wine, Cabernet Franc is the star, offering classic elements of red currant, tobacco and an earthy flintiness. Sweet oak-inspired notes of vanilla and cola contribute additional structure, while fine-grained tannins add to the appealing mouthfeel of the Cabernet Franc.
Though the 2008 growing season presented certain challenges—from early frosts to drought conditions—a meticulous approach to viticulture and sorting yielded small crops with good concentration, highlighting soft, appealing tannins for our red varietals and bright acidity for our white grapes. A long, moderately cool summer led to a harvest that commenced in mid-August and concluded in early November. This relatively relaxed pace allowed us to pick in numerous passes to ensure quality, often focusing on individual rows or a single side of the vines.
Appellation: Napa Valley
Sub-appellation: St. Helena
Harvest Dates: September 1—October 31, 2008
Average Sugar at Harvest: 28.4 ° Brix
Patzimaro Vineyard
Varietal Content
84% Cabernet Franc, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon
Cooperage
100% French oak, Chateau-style barrels (60 gallons)
Barrel Aging: 18 months
Age of Barrels: 100% new
Production/Technical Data
Alcohol: 14.5%
.59 g/100 ml titratable acidity
10-12 days fermentation at 80°F
pH: 3.72
Bottled: July 2010
Release Date: May 2011