Dancing Bear Ranch is an extraordinary blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from the Dancing Bear Ranch Estate Vineyard on Howell Mountain. Divided into 24 separate 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 and enjoys a near 360-degree exposure, offering a diverse range of growing conditions. The well-drained soils and position high above the fog line routinely stresses the vines, yielding small crops of intensely flavorful grapes. Fermentation and maceration are carefully managed to monitor tannin levels and limit over-extraction of the small berries with intense mountain character. Free-run component wines are aged in French oak barrels and subsequently blended, for a total of 18 months in 60% new French oak prior to bottling

92 Points
jamessuckling.com
2021 vintage
95 Points
Wine Advocate
2021 vintage
Harvest Note
The 2021 vintage commenced with a dry, mild winter followed by an even, temperate spring and summer, fostering optimal conditions for vine growth. These factors culminated in a small yet exceptional yield of grapes, distinguished by their rich color and intensely concentrated flavors.
Tasting Note
Generous aromas of black currant, dried cherry, and raspberry jam flow from the glass, with dark chocolate, coffee, dried rosemary, and fig notes emerging over time. The palate is full-bodied and rich, offering concentrated flavors of ripe cherry and blackberry, along with hints of mocha, leather, baking spices, and rocky minerality. Firm yet opulent tannins drive the wine to a long, powerful finish.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 4% Merlot
APPELLATION: Napa Valley
PH: 3.69
ACIDITY: 6.1 g/100ml
ABV: 14.4%
AGING: 18 months in French oak, 60% new
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
  • Matured 18 months in French oak barrels, 60% new

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.
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