The Wine
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon demonstrates the distinctive finesse and bright flavors of the famed “Rutherford Dust.” To capture the fruit’s wonderful aromas and structure, we fermented the grapes with indigenous yeast at moderate temperatures that allows the wine to gain flavors and color from extended skin contact. After blending, the wine spent another year and half in barrel to completely harmonize the flavors before bottling. The wine’s elegant, voluptuous ripe black fruits and cocoa flavors wrapped in smooth tannins are perfect for savory dishes such as braised beef, grilled rack of lamb or mushroom pizza.
Vintage
For the third year in a row, Napa Valley experienced an exceptional vintage, aided by near drought conditions. Bud break came slight early and the modest temperatures through the growing season helped preserve moisture. July’s relatively low temperatures coupled with high relatively humidity slowed down sugar accumulation to achieve perfect ripeness with lower alcohol. Harvest started and ended about two weeks earlier than normal, producing superb quality.
Vineyard
These grapes were grown at Austin’s Vineyard, home to our winery in the heart of the Rutherford viticultural area, one of the world’s preeminent sites for Cabernet Sauvignon. Its loamy soils and sunny, warm days create an elegant wine with red fruit flavors and smooth tannins. We farm our vineyards naturally and they are certified organic.
