Production Notes
Varietal Content: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc; Cooperage: 100% French oak -18 months new/6 months neutral
Winemaker Notes
Howell Mountain is rightfully legendary for the character and quality of its mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, and this wine shows why. On the nose, robust aromas of currant and blackberry mingle with undercurrents of sweet baking spices, tea leaf, cocoa and clove. Dusty tannins frame the rich dark berry fruit, with savory undertones providing a depth and complexity that carries through to a long, robust finish.
Production
In Napa Valley, a warm, dry spring resulted in any early budbreak, while an extended flowering period brought a return to normal yields after three years of abundant crops. With berry weights down, the grapes offered great concentration, while retaining excellent acidity. We had one of our earliest harvests in the past decade, with our first white grapes arriving at the winery on July 31st. A light rain in mid-September nourished the vines, while providing welcome additional hangtime. Overall, the quality of the fruit was exceptional, with our white wines showing both richness and complexity, and our red grapes displaying a fine balance between elegance and intensity, with gorgeous dark fruit flavors.