We sourced the fruit for our 2023 Cabcmet Sauvignon from our winery estate located on the eastern reaches of Napa County. The winery estate is located 800ft above sea level and dayime temperatures there are typically warmer there tha on thc valley floor due to our unique microclimate. The increased temperatures at thc vineyard site contributes to complete ripening of the fruit which in turn helps create the crowd-pleasing plush flavor profiles we enjoy.
Winemaking & Tasting Notes
The 2023 growing season was all about patience. A very long, wet winter replenished the soil and filled all the vineyard’s reservoirs. Cooler spring weather delayed budbreak and the start of the growing season. Late spring saw moderate warmth that led to substantial canopy growth as well as healthy crop loads on the vines. The fruit was hand-picked and brought into the winery in the early morning hours of October 21. We then employed an extended cool fermentation for a total of 17 days. The wine was then transferred to French oak barrels (65% new) and stored for 21 months in the winery’s caves. This vintage consists of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, and 4% Cabernet Franc.
This wine opens with enticing aromas of dark fruit, dry herbs, and tobacco on the nose, then presents rich flavors of cassis, black cherry, and baking spice on the palate. The wine is full of flavor, with great balance and fruit density. It features featherweight tannins and the long, soft finish that Vineyard 985 is known for. The wine is certainly approachable now but will perform well over the next 5 to 8 years.