WINEMAKING
Priest Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon was aged in 40% new French oak and 60% once-used French oak barrels. The lees were stirred for the first year, followed by three racking in the second year of aging. The wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered.
HARVEST NOTES
The beginning of the 2019 growing season was defined by copious rainfall and late soil moisture followed by a warm summer. We saw very few extreme heat events, with foggy mornings setting the stage for vibrant and expressive wines. The long, relatively mild finish to the season, helping to preserve freshness and finesse in the fruit with sufficient hang time teasing out a great color, structure, and soft tannins.
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautiful, full-bodied Napa Valley wine. On the nose, this wine has hints of cherry cola, vanilla, and dark fruit. The finish is a rounded mouthfeel that is persistent in the long and lingering opulent finish.
Vineyard Notes
The historic Priest Ranch is now part of Somerston Estate, a significant property totaling 1,682 acres with 225 acres of hillside vineyards. What defines and distinguishes the estate are the dramatic elevations of the vineyards, ranging from 800 ft. to 1,600 ft. The wines of Priest Ranch are sourced from multiple blocks, showcasing the diversity and complexity of the combined property. Our 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon came from 24 unique vineyard blocks, planted at elevations from 850 to 1600 ft asl.