24 Apr Spring 2019 Newsletter
What’s in the glass at the end of the rainbow?
Cabernet Sauvignon, of course!
Cab continues to reign as King in the wine world, and I have been proudly crafting this varietal for over 20 years. It’s been exciting to taste the development of these wines while they have progressed from grapes to thoughtfully aged wines. The vineyards I work with are producing some of the highest quality grapes world-wide. Specifically, the 2014 and 2015 Sonoma County vintages are among the best vintages I’ve worked with. I’m pleased to send a few examples to you in this shipment.
You will have the privilege to compare the similarities and the differences between the two Cabernet Sauvignons. The 2014 Knights Valley Cabernet from Lisa’s Vineyard is the easternmost appellation we source from, sitting between Sonoma and Napa County, where ‘mountain fruit’ vines prevail. The 2015 Alexander Valley Cabernet from Sciaini Vineyard is our northernmost vineyard source. Both of these wines offer complexity gained from exquisite sustainable farming practices. Each vineyard was picked at its peak of ripeness and directly delivered to our winery to ensure the quality of all the grapes. A healthy fermentation cycle converted the sugars to alcohol and began the aging process in perfect balance. Barrel selection is an important aspect of winemaking I love to experiment with. I source all of ours from low-yield cooperages that are skilled in producing characteristics which benefit these wines; taking the fruit components and integrating them with subtle spice notes to build the aroma, texture, flavor, and complexity of the wine.
The other wines I selected for this shipment are tasting beautifully right now. The Viognier and Rosé will satiate your thirst with complex but refreshing delight. Our 2014 Sciaini Cab has been stunning since originally released in April of 2017 and continues to age elegantly. Our Friends with Benefits club also gets the very last of our 2013 Malbec and 2013 Syrah. Talk about a treat! If you’re looking for something delicious tonight these are a great choice. Feel free to venture off your typical tasting patterns and explore some of the other delightful wines I make for you! Overall, wine is about a moment in time. Whether it is a glass at dinner or a special bottle you’ve been saving, it’s about your relaxation, rejuvenation, and enjoyment. All of my thumbprint wines have been carefully developed to make any moment in time perfect. I find joy in making wines I like to drink, but my number one priority is to take care of my wine family. As always, I look forward to hearing any questions, comments, or suggestions you may have and I will respond with elation.