Benchland Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2016

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America / Napa Valley

Benchland Select is a special blend of five clones of Cabernet Sauvignon from two superior vineyards in the gently sloping western benchlands of Rutherford and Oakville. These vineyards benefit from cool afternoon shade provided by the Mayacamas Mountains, allowing the grapes to mature at a slow, even pace, and gravelly loam soils affording excellent drainage. Each lot is gently destemmed and fermented separately in small stainless steel tanks designed to maximize color, flavor and tannin extraction. Yeast strains, fermentation temperatures, maceration techniques and barrel aging regimens were specifically tailored to the character of each lot to capture the finest attributes of each vineyard block in the final blend. The blend spent 22 months aging in French oak barrels, 61% new, prior to bottling.

Harvest Note

2016 began with the most abundant rainfall we’ve experienced in three decades, which refreshed and revitalized the vines after years of drought. Warm spring temperatures prompted an earlier-than-average budbreak, followed by a relatively cool summer with no heat spikes; these conditions allowed grapes to ripen slowly and steadily, and a warm, dry September helped them develop to full maturity. 2016 is another standout Cabernet Sauvignon vintage, with smaller yields of exceptional quality.

Tasting Note

Aromas of bright boysenberry and delicate violets; flavors of ripe blackberry, fig, and hints of dried sage on the palate lead into rich notes of sweet blackberry and dark chocolate over a long finish. Elegant tension between its dense fruit, bright acidity, and firm, supple tannins gives this wine depth and dimension.

Technical Data

GRAPES: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

APPELLATION: Napa Valley

PH: 3.73

ACIDITY: 0.64 g/100 ml

ABV: 14.9%

AGING: 22 months aging in French oak barrels, 61% new

Unique Selling Points

From two prime benchland vineyards in Rutherford and Oakville
Each lot fermented and matured separately for utmost fruit and terroir expression
Matured 22 months in French oak barrels, 61% new

“Our emphasis on fruit quality captures the expression of black fruit and rich dark chocolate 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.