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.
On the whole, the fruit was exceptional with bright acidity and ample texture.