2017 St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon (1 X 750 ML)
Approximately 20 miles north of the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, nestled between the Mayacamas and Vaca Mountain ranges, lies appellation St. Helena. The shape of this appellations geography and distance from the cool waters of the Bays and the Pacific Ocean set this historic location apart from any other growing region in the world. Vineyards are located on ancient alluvial fans, and on the valley floor that sweeps toward the Napa River. Consistent sunshine and the unique hourglass shape of the region contribute to a wide fluctuation of temperature during the growing season. Heat is locked in during the day and is amplified by the hillsides; at night, that same slender width funnels moderating breezes to dramatically cool the vines, sometimes by as much as 40 to 50 degrees. This extreme shift in temperature helps the fruit retain ideal balance and acidity.
This bottling is comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon from three vineyards: Castellucci on Zinfandel Lane, Dr. Gold on Main Street and Vittorios Estate off White Lane. All vineyards, located on the valley floor, benefit from the great summer warmth and sunlight.
For the 2017 vintage, abundant winter rains prior to the growing season helped recharge reservoirs and groundwater. Spring weather was cool to mild, with increased vine vigor and extended flowering in some areas. Over Labor Day weekend, high temperatures kicked harvest into high gear until mid-September, when cooler weather arrived giving red varieties extra hang time.
Tasting notes
The 2017 St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon presents a varied nose of spiced red berry, raspberry, strawberry, and red plum, with undertones of black pepper and milk chocolate. A bright entry on the palate is followed by a juicy center of strawberry preserve, with fine tannins providing a polished mouthfeel and structured finish.- Winemakers Sean Thompson, Celia Welch and Hugh Davies
Reviews
94 Points - Best of Year 2020Woody in spice and oak, this appellation wine is powerfully built, with a lift of acidity that keeps it fresh and lively in the glass. Cigar box, tobacco and ample red fruit glide across the palate with ease and length, integrated in tannin and weight.- Wine Enthusiast (November 2020)
91 Points
Shows the forward and slightly exotic fruit of the vintage, with a mix of steeped açaí, blueberry and loganberry notes leading the way, followed by warm cocoa and licorice root accents on the finish. Ready to enjoy now. Drink now through 2027.- Wine Spectator (November 2020)
91 Points
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Saint Helena Vineyard leaps from the glass with black currant cordial, blueberry pie and licorice scents with hints of violets, dried herbs and raspberry leaves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with juicy black and blue fruit with a spicy undercurrent and long, softly textured finish.- Wine Advocate (October 2019)
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