2009 12C 750 ml Cabernet Sauvignon

COMMENTS FROM THE WINEMAKER - Mike Smith

2009 was the beginning of a series of cooler growing seasons in Napa. Our well drained site combined with old vine clone 7 vines handled it marvelously. Crop yields were reduced early in the season due to a late start and gave us perfectly ripened fruit in mid October. This year’s wine is like a combination of the 2007 and 2008 12C wines in that it carries a belly full of fruit like the 2007 but also an enormous amount of perfectly ripened tannin like the 2008 for long term aging. Dark ruby in the glass to the rim, aromas of dark red fruits, cassis, herbs of Provence and sandalwood emanate from the glass when swirled.  On the palate the above components are enveloped within a smooth and broad mid palate that remains fresh due to perfect natural acidity levels. Where this wine measures up to the best in Napa Valley is the finish. The mouth feel and fruit concentration achieved from old vine extract flows into a finish that is framed by wood spice and tannin and lasts for minutes. Like the 2008, look for the 2009 to drink well in its youth with a proper decant and it should hit its peak in 6-8 years and age for up to 15+ years in a cold cellar.