Vineyard Notes:

Merlot from the Ranch 9 Vineyard underpins this wine and provides rich, red fruit tones to the mid-palate. The Ranch 9 Vineyard is located at the Southeast end of the Oak Knoll District. Due to its proximity to the San Pablo Bay, this vineyard tends to be cooler during the afternoon, which is critical for growing rich and complex Merlot.

The final blend is completed with Cabernet Sauvignon from our estate vineyard in Oak Knoll District in Napa Valley. This is a very special location adjacent to Dry Creek and the vineyard has a long history of producing extraordinary Cabernet Sauvignon. From the 1970’s through the early 2000’s a portion of the vineyard was sold to Robert Mondavi and used in his Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Mr. Mondavi would personally visit each year to inspect and review the vineyard.

All of the wine was aged in 40% new French oak, 10% new American oak (both medium plus and heavy toast), and 50% neutral barrels for 22 months.