The 2019 growing season was preceded by one of the wettest winters in recent memory, with nearly 35 inches of rain recorded on DAOU Mountain. The vines were energized by the muchneeded moisture, setting one of our best crops yet. The weather remained steady from spring through mid-summer. However, a heat wave descended upon California during the third week of August. Many vintners chose to harvest immediately, but we made the brave decision to allow the fruit to hang.
This wine displays a magnificent, compelling and inviting nose that is quintessential of Cabernet Sauvignon. Unrestrained wild cherry, currant and mulberry fragrances arise with pronounced notes of cocoa, coriander, caramelized sugar and wintergreen. Sublayers of dried herbs, cedar, tobacco leaf and slate provide substantive foundation to the aromatic profile. On the palate a veritable explosion of fresh, ripe, dark berry fruits. Tangy blackberry, juicy black cherry, pomegranate and cranberry are mingled with lovely blueberry and raspberry accents, underscored with kirsch and rhubarb. Integrated nicely with toasty oak, graphite and forest floor. Full bodied and a very silky texture, this wine glides into a long, generous finish resonating with ripe fruit and exotic spice allowing an amazing aging capabilities.
Critic Ratings
Wine Spectator Review - Issue 5/1/2022 - Rated 92:
Black olive, elderberry extract, loamy soil and charred nut aromas show on the nose of this reserve bottling. A charred cocoa-nib, espresso-bean and coconut-husk flavor flows through the palate, which is wrapped in expertly focused tannins. MATT KETTMANN