2019 Larkmead "White Label" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California, USA

ABOUT THIS WINE

The Cabernet Sauvignon is unique this vintage as the blend is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is comprised of parcels spanning the valley from the Vaca to Mayacamas mountain ranges, making this a true representation of the potential of Cabernet Sauvignon on the Larkmead Estate. The conditions of the spring rain, followed by heat in the summer, allowed the grapes to build high concentrations of aromas, flavors and textures that will continue to evolve for decades. This wine can be served now but will age gracefully for the next 15-30 years. If drinking now, serve at cellar temperature and after decanting for two hours.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Larkmead Vineyards is one of the oldest family-owned establishments in Napa Valley. Originally founded in 1895, the Larkmead estate is now under the stewardship of the Solari-Baker family.

The broad patch of Calistoga that Larkmead Vineyards calls home has been under vine since the mid-1800s and has witnessed the turning of two centuries. In that time, Napa Valley has transformed from a vinous vestige of the Wild West to one of the most preeminent wine regions of the world. Larkmead played an active role in that swell, as their grapes have contributed to countless, celebrated Napa Valley wines across the decades. Critical to Larkmead’s success, the estate has been in the hands of the Solari family since 1948. This steadiness has allowed for the type of careful study that is necessary to truly unlock a vineyard’s potential. Since the beginning of their modern winemaking history in 1997, the family has relentlessly fine-tuned their viticultural and cellar techniques to express the vineyard’s voice most accurately.

Larkmead’s legendary vineyard features a remarkable diversity of soils that are more typical of a hillside than the valley floor. Centuries of alluvial flow have resulted in the accumulation of ancient riverbed gravel, clay, and loam. Winemaker Avery Heelan captures the nuance and complexity of this site by vinifying small lots according to clonal selection and soil type.  The 115 acre vineyard is masterfully tended by vineyard manager Nabor Camerena and viticulturist Kelly Maher.