newton mt. veeder cabernet sauvignon 2015 750ml

Vineyard

Our Mount Veeder property was first purchased and planted to Champagne varietals in the early 1970's. Over the last 20 years the majority of the property has been replanted to Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyard is situated in the Mayacamas Mountains on the Western edge of the Napa Valley on steep southern aspects at altitudes between 750-1250 feet. The altitude and close proximity to the cooling influence from San Pablo bay produce the longest growing season of all the Napa Valley Sub Regions. The soil is of sedimentary origin and very well drained capturing the minerality and vibrancy of Cabernet Sauvignon most accurately with wines characterized by a most intense black currant fruit and firm sinewy graphite structures.

Vintage Conditions
The 2015 season was one of contrasts. The vintage was noted by significantly reduced yields (-35-50%) a result of a cool and damp flowering period in Spring which resulted in poor fruit set and fewer berries per bunch. The Summer and Autumn were hot and dry continuing the run of drought conditions which commenced from the 2012 vintage. The quality of the fruit was outstanding although in limited supply with the vintage likely to be recognized as one of Napa Valley's greatest.

Vinification
The 2015 Mount Veeder was a selection of blocks 203, 205, 206, 211, 209, 212, 231, 240 with an average vine age of 18 years. Once harvested, the grapes were hand-sorted to inspect individual berries. The must was then fermented in separate lots and barrel aged for 12 months before being blended and returned to barrel for further maturation. 961 cases produced.

Tasting Notes
Very distinctive with classic cassis and pulverized rock and wet slate with cool, inky fruits, black olives and aniseed. Focused and intense with a spine of fine slate like tannins running the length of the palate. Coal dust and graphite compliment the intense cool and crunchy black currant fruit leading to a long and refined finish.

Serving and Cellaring
A wine which will reveal itself slowly over time and benefit those who can resist the temptation. A wine that can be kept for the next generation.
Harvest dates: October 6 - 9, 2015
Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
pH 3.83 - ta 6.1 g/L - 14% abv

Critical Acclaim
A classic, herb-tinged Cabernet nose. Discreet currant notes are backed up by savoury-earthy tones. Rich and juicy on the palate but balanced by well-built and muscular tannins. Showy, with a mountain edge."
96 points- Decanter Magazine

"This is a big and rich cab but shows the coolness of the Mt. Veeder area with fresh mushroom, tobacco and currant character. Full-bodied, tight and focused. Long and flavorful finish. The balance of tannin and fruit is right on."
96 points- James Suckling

"The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder Single Vineyard is also beautiful, and probably my favorite in the lineup. Creme de cassis, black cherries, violets, incense, and spring flower notes all emerge from this medium to full-bodied, beautifully complete, layered 2015 that has bright acidity, present, firm tannin, impeccable balance and a great finish."
95 points- Jeb Dunnuck

"The deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder Single Vineyard opens with warm cassis, blueberry compote and black forest cake notes with hints of spice box and cigars. Medium-bodied with good intensity, it has just enough fruit and firm tannins, and the finish is long and savory."
94 points, The Wine Advocate

"Dusty leather and an Old World savory and feral nose, are accented by dried herb and pyrazine in this sinewy red. Pencil shavings, cedar and black olive stay on the classic theme, with plush, expansive tannins gripping the palate with finesse."
93 points- Wine Enthusiast

750ml bottle