Product Overview
Winemaker's Notes
"This vintage stands out as truly exceptional. Before moderate spring and summer temperatures arrived, we experienced average rainfall, with temperatures ranging from the high 80s to the low 90s. The proximity to the coast played a vital role in mitigating a late summer heat wave, allowing our vines to recover gracefully. As a result, the ensuing fruit displayed precise acidity, low sugar levels, and distinctive flavors.
Reflecting the unique character of our mesa flat terroir, we harvested each block separately and fermented it in four-ton French oak and concrete tanks. With an average fermentation duration of 20 days, we transferred the wine to barrels for 22 months across 50% new French oak. Boasting a robust structure harmoniously balanced by a velvety texture, the wine is enjoyable now or will age gracefully in your cellar."
Varietal Composition: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Merlot
Appellation: Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA
Aging: 22 months in French oak barrels, 50% new
Winemaker: Simon Faury
97 Points, Wine Enthusiast
"The impact of French-born, Napa-trained Simon Faury, who was hired as winemaker for this ambitious estate in 2019, shows brightly on this Bordelaise blend. Roasted blackberry, judicious oak, savory walnut and light cocoa aromas lead into a palate where the expertly managed tannins are firm but forgiving. Savory yet fruit-driven flavors of blackberry, charred nuts and pencil shavings slide into an elegant finish." -MK, 3/1/25
94 Points - Vinous
"The 2020 Estate Selection is dark and enveloping in the glass. Black cherry, plum, mocha, spice and licorice all wrap around the palate. There's notable textural intensity and a darker fruit profile vis-à-vis the 2021, much of that attributable to a season marked by two late-season heat spikes. This forward, luscious Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend offers tons of immediacy. The blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec, 3% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot." -AG, Jul/2024
94 Points - Wine Advocate
"The 2020 Estate Selection is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It has layered aromas of cassis, iron, grilled game meats, soy sauce and bitter chocolate with alluring, herbal undertones. The full-bodied palate has a deep core of spicy fruit, cashmere-textured tannins, seamless freshness and a long, latent finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years in bottle." -EB, 12/29/23
