Dancing Bear Ranch 2023
Trade Tools
America / Napa Valley
An extraordinary blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc from the Dancing Bear Ranch Estate Vineyard on Howell Mountain. Divided into 24 blocks based on varietal type, sun exposure, soil profile, and clonal selection, the vineyard is planted in dry, rocky, volcanic soils between 1,400 and 1,900 feet of elevation with near 360-degree exposure. The well-drained soil and position high above the fog line routinely stress the vines, yielding small crops of intensely flavorful grapes.
94 Points
James Suckling
2023 vintage
Harvest Note
Ample winter and spring rainfall replenished soils and supported healthy vine growth over the extended growing season. Moderate summer temperatures allowed fruit to ripen slowly and evenly. Warm days and cool evenings in September and October refined the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, enhancing aromatic complexity and flavor development.
Tasting Note
Beautifully layered aromas of red plum, blueberry, and black cherry, accented by mocha and subtle toasted oak. On the palate, raspberry and dark cherry are complemented by dark berry and a touch of baking spice.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc
APPELLATION: Howell Mountain
PH: 3.73
ACIDITY: 0.59 g/L
ABV: 14.4%
AGING: 22 months in French oak barrels: 56% new, 44% neutral
Unique Selling Points
- Estate grown single-vineyard blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot
- Renowned Howell Mountain location with elevations of 1,400 to 1,900 feet
- Each block farmed with care to highlight the distinct character of this unique site
- A beautiful expression of intense mountain fruit
“Our emphasis on fruit quality captures the expression of blackberry and boysenberry in the wine.”
Niki Williams, Winemaker
About the Grape
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is adaptable to various growing conditions, and is known for its low yield and late ripeness. It generally produces full-bodied wines with substantial acidity and tannins.
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc usually shows tart red cherry and wild currant aromas and flavors with an herbal, spicy character. In the Loire, esp. Chinon and Saumur-Champigny, this grape shows firm minerality.
Merlot
Merlot makes plump, succulent wines to drink young or opulently massive wines for aging. Has silky, blackberry and currant fruit, with spice, earth, tobacco and chocolate notes, and soft tannins.
