Cole Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

The Cole Ranch vineyard sits on 180 acres of the Boonville grade, right between the famed Anderson Valley and “Inner Mendo” growing regions. Originally planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling and Merlot in 1973, the historic vineyard has since expanded its lineup to include Jura and Savoie varieties truly suited to the narrow mountain valley’s long, cool growing season. Dry farmed for most of their existence, these vines send their thick roots down into the valley’s gravelly-clay-loam soil, drawing up the minerals that contribute to our wine’s complexity and ageability.

Mike’s Notes:
A very exciting year with the unknown potential from the lingering smoke in the air. Cole Ranch saw only a few days where we could smell the smoke but the layer high above us played its roll by shading the UV sun rays for maturity. The result was zero smoke taint but light color and low tannin extraction. 100% de-stemmed and mixed using our pump-over system. With Cabernet, I wanted to respect its relationship with new oak aged in 50% relatively newer wood and the remaining in Neutral oak. The result is finesse.

Tasting notes:
Medium body with alpine fresh tannins. Flavors of just ripened blackberries and cherries. The little amount of Oak gives the impression of cocoa nibs or dark chocolate espresso beans. But just a hint.