2018 "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 four vineyards: Denali Estate on Taplin Rd, Dr. Gold on Main Street, River Run on Zinfandel Lane and Benesserere off Big Tree Road. All vineyards, located on the valley floor, benefit from the great summer warmth and sunlight.
The long growing season in 2018 revealed a vintage with concentration without being overripe. Despite a warm February, the growing season started off cooler than the past few vintages. A cool spring meant bloom lasted longer than usual, which resulted in a bountiful crop. Summer temperatures were moderate with fewer heat spikes than in recent years. Veraison started later as well, and as a result, harvest started two to three weeks later than in recent years. The resulting fruit exhibited exceptional structure with depth of flavor and noticeable brightness.
View Wine Technical Sheet
Tasting notes
The 2018 "St. Helena" Cabernet Sauvignon presents aromas of acai, raspberry, and blueberry with subtle hints of boysenberry compote, purple flowers, milk chocolate, and vanilla. An inviting, plush texture on entry develops into a coating palate with flavors of tangy berry fruits, candied cherry and cocoa powder.- Winemakers Sean Thompson, Jessica Koga and Hugh Davies
Reviews
93 PointsA fruity red with blue fruit, crushed stone and some walnut. Its full-bodied, layered and flavorful. Still a little tight at the finish, so give it some time.- James Suckling, December 2020
93 Points
This is brimming with youthful plum sauce and blackberry preserve flavors, while a violet note adds purity and accents of light licorice and sweet spice gild the polished finish. Built to please- Wine Spectator, March 2022
93 Points
Deep ruby-purple, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena offers tones of cassis and blueberries, with slowly emerging accents of dark chocolate, aniseed, vanilla and bouquet garni. Full-bodied, it has lush fruits, a plush, rounded frame and bursts of fresh acidity highlighting its spicy accents on the long finish.- Wine Advocate, July 2022
