Ladera Napa Valley Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2013

Vineyard Notes
Sourced exclusively from our estate vineyard directly opposite the winery, ranging from 1,600 to 1,800 feet in elevation. The vineyard sits above the fog line receiving longer sun exposure throughout the growing season. A combination of the high elevation, the red, volcanic and mineral rich soils allows the fruit to achieve full physiological ripeness, producing ripe flavorful wines with great structure and exceptional aging potential.

Cellar Notes
The 2013 Ladera Howell Mountain Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the best our vineyard has to offer and delivers the full expression of its mountain origins. Comprised of the most promising lots of the vintage, the grapes were hand sorted, de-stemmed without crushing and cold soaked for 7 days in small open top fermenters to extract maximum fruit characteristics. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was aged in 82% new premium French oak for 22 months before the final blend was assembled.

Tasting Notes
The 2013 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is poised to age beautifully. It delivers a style similar to the 2012 vintage, but enhances a more rich and intense fruit character. Deep, fragrant aromas explode from the glass exhibiting notes of blackberry and blueberry extract highlighted by cinnamon and nutmeg spice. Powerful yet elegant, the flavorful palate displays ripe flavors of plum, blackberry and black cherry supported by structured tannins and refreshing acidity.

Beautiful wine from Ladera, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve exhibits plum, blackberry and blueberry fruit, has beautiful color saturation, medium to full body and a great deal of elegance and freshness. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.

91 points from Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate