Winter Release Montecillo Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
2021

Winemaker’s Notes

Our 2021 Montecillo Cabernet ranks alongside the classic 2018 as the finest we’ve produced from this wild mountainous place two thousand feet above Sonoma Valley. These organically farmed, non-irrigated old vines carve out an existence on this scrubby rock-strewn hillside, and the wine, with its rocky red mineral signature, is a vivid and perfect reflection of this hardscrabble. And yet, despite these tough conditions, with early harvesting and gentle winemaking, we’re able to extract something beautiful and supple from what could easily tip into the brawny and sinewy. This shows the great pedigree of the terroir itself. You can essentially age this wine indefinitely! But I recommend drinking from 2024 through 2036 if you have the patience.

A wine of power, detail and presence showing deep earthy aromatics built upon savory mountain intensity and reminiscent of graphite, red minerals, iron and iodine. The palate has great energy and drive with a deep core of wild cherry and blackberry fruit, dried herb, lavender and umami flavors. Anise and sage notes add complexity. The wine’s tannins are bold and enveloping and lead to a rising finish of espresso and menthol. A unique mountain Cabernet expression. Decant for an hour+ before serving.

Andy Smith