2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mee Lane, Rutherford

The 2016 vintage is a keystone of a growing vertical series of vintages we have produced from the noted Mee Lane family vineyard in the world class Rutherford AVA of Napa Valley.  This single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is being produced with precise hand-crafting in the Bordeaux style with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that reflects longer time to develop fuller phenolics yet maintain acid balance on the vine due to its unusual row orientation and shading in a typically hotter AVA for Napa Valley Cabernet. 

Winemaking:  These grapes were hand-harvested at dawn in late September on various dates for optimal ripening at a vineyad average of 24.6 Brix.  They were picked cool at 50 degrees F into small bins, Gently destemmed, cold soaked for 4 days to assist with extraction of skin tannins, color and bright fruit, then fermented in 3/34 ton small lot fermenters.  The fermentation was carefully hand-punched down two to three times per day on phenolic development until dry, given the seed tannins' resolution of this special vineyard and drought-influenced intense vintage.  The wine was pressed to barrels for malolactic fermentation, racked to a carefully selected mix 100% new French Oak for 32 months gentle elevage.

Tasting Notes:  A complex, plush and full-bodied, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon with ample layers of bright ripe fruits and succulent black cherries with hints of blueberry and toasted spices.  Substantial and firm tannins round out this plush, well balanced wine with a remarkably long and delicious finish.  Stylish, classic collector's Napa Cabernet.  Drink or hold.