Rafael et Fils Cabernet Sauvignon

The vineyard is located northwest of the town of Napa just within the boundary of the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley AVA. Bordering Mt. Veeder, it’s a unique, highly prized hillside location with southern exposure and steep slopes that dramatically rise to well over 400 feet in elevation. Sitting in the Dry Creek alluvial fan, the well drained soils on the upper terraces are stony, volcanically derived, transitioning to silty clay loam on the lower portion of the site. The Cabernet Sauvignon vines are planted on 110R rootstock, using Clone 7. Yields are low and the vines are meticulously cane-pruned to optimize vine balance between vigor and yield. Vineyard practices are certified Napa Green Land and Fish-Friendly Farming, one of the most comprehensive environmental certifications in California.

The wine is reflective of the remarkably striking tension in this vintage of flavor depth, density and purity. Aromatically perfumed and exotic, aromas of blackberry, black cherry, chocolate, fresh roasted coffee beans, and anise jump out of the glass. Notes of sage, pine, leather, mint and forest floor allow the savory tannins to frame a freshness in the mid-palate and reveal a long, powerful and deliciously structured finish. This vintage is deeply satisfying and utterly beautiful. Additional layers of complexity will be revealed over several days and will age gracefully in a well-kept cellar for 20+ years.