2019 Mountain Cabernet Sauvignons

Venture off the beaten paths of Highway 29 and Silverado Trail on the Valley floor, and you’ll soon find yourself climbing in elevation. The Mayacamas mountain range on the west and the Vaca Range on the east are home to seven unique subregions, each with distinct terroir and character. 2019 provided an opportunity to make wine from two of these mountain AVAs.

Image Credit: Napa Valley Vintners

Howell Mountain

This AVA is on the northeast side of Napa in the Vaca Mountain range. The boundaries of the AVA are dictated by vineyard land located at elevations of at least
1,400 ft. Two main soil types are decomposed volcanic ash and red clay high in iron. Both soil types are nutrient poor; they stress the vines and produce small clusters and berries. The altitude and thin, rocky soil create wines with firm structure and complexity.

The nose is laden with blackberry jam and macerated raspberries. Opening up to more savory elements of sage, tobacco, forest floor, and sweet licorice. The palate is rich and expansive with plum preserve, black cherries, blackberry compote, and crème de cassis. Powerful and chalky tannins remind you of this wine’s mountain origin.

Diamond Mountain

Nestled in the Mayacamas mountain range, on Napa and Sonoma county line, this high-altitude AVA is known for great acidity, concentration, and balance.
Diamond Mountain District gets its name from the bits of volcanic glass and obsidian that sparkle within the rich volcanic soils of this region. This AVA is home to fewer than 20 wineries producing from small plots of land.

Intriguingly savory on the nose; expressive black olives, dried black currants, espresso, and leather burst from the glass. The palate starts with notes of exotic spices and espresso, built solidly around a juicy core of baked plum, sour cherry, and cranberry. Grippy and rustic tannins lead to a long, lingering, and velvety finish.