2021 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
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2021 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
My 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is a quintessential bottling of my favorite grape variety. Hailing from one of the most iconic vineyards in Rutherford AVA, Napa Valley, this site was first planted to wine grapes in 1895 by Elizabeth Rutherford. Coming from the oldest remaining section of this 161-acre vineyard, Block F, these grapes are prized for their deep and concentrated flavors. This Cabernet is medium to full bodied and approachable now, displaying ripe red and black fruits. It will continue to deliver optimal drinking pleasure over the next 15-25+ years with proper cellaring.
TASTING NOTES
This Cabernet Sauvignon pours as an opaque shade of violet, crimson. The nose is aromatic and intense with oodles of black cherry, plum, cacao nibs, and suede. Delivering all the hallmark characteristics of Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon, the pallet is framed by dark fruits, forest floor, graphite, and round tannins. The finish seamlessly transitions from the mid-pallet with notes of crème de cassis, and cocoa powder-like tannins, –the purest expression of “Rutherford Dust”.
WINEMAKING
Composition – 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, Clone 337
Vineyard – 1895 Elizabeth Rutherford Vineyard
Harvest – September 15, 2021
Aging – 27 Months in Rare, 100% New Darnajou French Oak
Alcohol – 14.2%
Winemaker – Matthew Dempsey
VINEYARD & VINTAGE
First planted to wine grapes by Elizabeth Rutherford, this vineyard has a fabled history spanning back to the late 1800’s. The vineyard was purchased in 1928 by Georges de Latour and brought to fame through many decades of producing exceptional wines under the Beaulieu label. In 1988, the vineyard was acquired by Andy Beckstoffer and it has continued to produce some of the most highly sought after Cabernet Sauvignons in Napa Valley.
The 2021 vintage started off with a mild and relatively dry winter in Napa Valley. Dry conditions continued into the growing season which resulted in lower yields and smaller grape berries than the previous several vintages. The summer was warm and long with few heat spikes and cool nights, creating ideal weather for concentrated and balanced flavors. Harvest was smooth and steady allowing for the maximum care and attention to be taken through the process. This vintage will be remembered for its concentrated flavors and balanced structure.
Matthew Dempsey
Proprietor & Winemaker
