Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District 2019

The estate comprises a diversity of soil types and topography that imbues the wines with distinct complexity. To the east, the steep hills and shallow soils bring density and power; at the northern end, the proximity to the Palisades imparts ripeness and purity of fruit, while to the south, the estate’s proximity to the San Pablo Bay provides breezes that add the nuance of cooler climate and adds hints of dried herbs and mint. This diversity has led to the creation of 28 distinct vineyard blocks, each meticulously cultivated. The estate holds the Napa Green Vineyard certification which provides a framework for growers to cultivate sustainably; through improving soil health, becoming carbon neutral, implementing efficient water-use strategies, incorporating integrated pest management techniques and soil cover crops.

The hand-harvested 100% estate-grown grapes were fermented with selected yeasts in stainless steel tanks to retain the purity of fruit, with varying lengths of extended skin contact from 30 to 40 days to extract colour, flavour and fine tannins. Vinified without any additions, the wine was then matured for 18 months in French oak, 50% of which was new and 50% was previously used to impart subtle character.