Wine With Wanda

Brunello for Breakfast: A Far from Traditional Wine Tasting with Tancredi Biondi-Santi

Even in Manhattan, where people pretend not to notice anything, with his impressive stature and perfectly tailored suit, Tancredi Biondi-Santi draws attention when he enters the room. Of course, people were also staring because it was only ten in the morning and our breakfast table was covered with bottles of wine! But not just any wine, Brunello di Montalcino. And not just any Brunello di Montalcino, but the legendary wines of Biondi-Santi. It isn't an exaggeration to say that without Tancredi's ancestors, Brunello di Montalcino might not exist. 

Clemente Santi is considered the founding father of Brunello di Montalcino and Tancredi proudly represents the seventh generation of this winemaking dynasty. In 1869, Clemente Santi's 1865 vintage was awarded a silver medal by the Agrarian Committee of Montepulciano and marks the first recorded mention of Brunello. This trailblazing vino went on to receive prestigious accolades abroad, including in France. According to the Brunello di Montalcino Consortium, "Brunello di Montalcino traces its roots to the 19th century when local farmers began experimenting with a native grape variety cultivated in the surrounding territory. This grape, known as "Brunello" or “Brunellino”, was identified as a variety of Sangiovese. The delectable wine produced from this fruit can be aged for years, richly enhancing its value." In 1980, Brunello di Montalcino was the first wine to receive the prestigious DOCG (Denomination of Origin Controlled and Guaranteed) designation, which represents the highest level of quality for Italian wines. Montalcino, a tiny hilltop town in the heart of Tuscany, is small but mighty in the world of wine.

Many people might be overwhelmed by such a formidable legacy but Tancredi embraces it with grace and humility. Tancredi travels the globe sharing the beauty of Tenuta Greppo Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino and is an in-demand expert not just on his family's wines but the region. Universally acclaimed as one of Italy's finest wines, Brunello di Montalcino is renowned for its elegance, complexity, and longevity. I was delighted at Tancredi's willingness to share his exceptional wines over a casual meal. These wines are so exquisite nothing can diminish their light, indeed they cast a glow over every meal and moment.

With such a storied history, Biondi-Santi is synonymous with tradition but they aren't afraid of respectful innovation. Clearly winemaking has evolved since the 19th century but Tancredi believes that "Technology should not influence the style of the wine. Technology must respect the style of the wine." With that credo, the Biondi-Santi style remains a true reflection of their terroir and tradition. "We innovate as much as we can but maintain our style," said Tancredi. This devotion to tradition isn't just a manifestation of loyalty to the founders but a wise winemaking decision that presents Brunello di Montalcino in the way it was intended to be -- an authentic expression of the terroir and the Sangiovese Grosso grape. For Biondi-Santi, that Sangiovese Grosso grape is specifically their BBS11 clone (Brunello Biondi Santi 11 Clone) which was officially identified in 1970. 

 

Aged 36 months in Slavonian oak, followed by another year of aging in the bottle, Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino 2012 DOCG ($209) is a young wine by Brunello standards; it has the capacity to age another 70-80 years! Nonetheless, I was impressed at the wine's approachability and harmony at this toddler stage of its development. The tannins are firm but not aggressive and the fruit is intense yet graceful. A subtle touch of spice accentuates the wine's freshness and red fruit flavors. This wine was clearly made with passion and precision. 

Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2011 DOCG ($566) is clearly not a casual purchase. But if you want to experience a wine that eloquently expresses the majesty of Brunello di Montalcino, this wine is nearly perfect. I say nearly because while it is stunningly beautiful at this moment, it will reveal its true character over time. It has enough structure to age 70-80 years but displays an appealing vibrancy and nuance that make it an unforgettable wine at this moment. Perhaps Tancredi's father, Jacopo Biondi-Santi says it best, "Set apart by its extreme elegance this bottling gives off a beautiful impression of fruit. The very dry climate has given Brunello Riserva 2011 a rare readiness and drinkability without altering its intensity and longevity potential." Riserva 2011 was aged 36 months in Slavonian oak, followed by 2 years in bottle. 


To experience a bit of the Biondi-Santi mystique at a more accessible price point, their Rosso di Montalcino 2015 ($115) is a charmer. Fresher and flirtier but still elegant, it was aged 12 months in Slavonian oak and has the capacity to age 15-20 years. 

I recognize that the wines of Biondi-Santi are an investment but if you are ever offered a glass, please say yes and savor every sip. Biondi-Santi's wines are to be treasured not only because of their historical significance but they represent a level of winemaking that is to be admired for its authenticity of expression. And if you want to have the fanciest breakfast ever, take a tip from Tancredi and start your day off in grand fashion with Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino. 

Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino for breakfast? Don't mind if I do! It was such an unforgettable treat to taste these very special wines with Tancredi Biondi-Santi. 

Make the Holidays Sparkle with Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG

I love the surprised look that my friends get when I rattle off Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. Honestly, I'm not just showing off my hard-earned and still far from perfect pronunciation; I really want people to know that there's more to Prosecco than the cheap and pleasant sparkling wine that is ubiquitous at boozy brunches. While many producers have taken advantage of Prosecco's popularity to flood the market with inferior wines, Prosecco Superiore is in a class all by itself.


What makes Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG so special? Some of the clues are in the name. These sparkling wines have a true sense of place -- the majestic steep hillsides of Conegliano Valdobbiadene, in north east Italy about 30 miles from Venice and 64 miles from the Dolomites. The production zone for Prosecco Superiore DOCG is limited to the 15 hilly communes between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. Prosecco Superiore wines must contain a minimum of 85% Glera; the grape that is the heart and soul of Prosecco. The region also has the distinction of being the home of Italy's first wine school, which was founded in 1876. 

Glera grapes at Masottina's vineyards

Vines have been grown in the region since ancient times and the first written reference to Prosecco dates back to 1772. Building on centuries of tradition, knowledge, and innovation, winemakers in Conegliano Valdobbiadene are focused on crafting quality wines that authentically express the terroir. These wines are designated Prosecco Superiore for a reason and their superb quality earned them the coveted DOCG designation in 2009 -- the highest level of quality for Italian wines.  

Within the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG, Rive and Cartizze are smaller and specialized areas within the larger region. In the local dialect, Rive refers to steep hillside vineyards and the wines are made exclusively from hand-picked grapes grown in 43 different hamlets and villages. The Superiore di Cartizze category is even more exclusive: this sub-zone of just 107 hectares is composed of the steepest hillsides of three villages in Valdobbiadene. 

Masottina Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Brut DOCG NV ($22)

I had the pleasure of visiting Masottina winery in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene region in 2017 and fell in love with the wines and the region. Founded in 1946, and still owned and managed by the Dal Bianco family, Masottina takes no short cuts and is committed to crafting wines that authentically express their terroir. Their Prosecco Superiore, made from 100% Glera, is so vivacious, crisp, and fresh, it reminds me of tasting the grape directly from the vine. 

Nino Franco "Rustico" Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG ($19)
Whenever friends tell me that Prosecco is pleasant but nothing special, I can always count on Nino Franco to win them over. Founded in 1919, Nino Franco is one of the oldest wineries in the region and their winemaking mastery shows in every sip. Dry, creamy, and crisp with fine bubbles and elegant fruit & flowery flavors, this is a gorgeous 100% Glera bubbly with tremendous texture and minerality.   

La Marca "Luminore" Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG ($30)
A limited-edition Prosecco Superiore crafted to celebrate La Marca's 50th anniversary, Luminore is a  crisp and lively expression of the Glera grape with charming flavors of white pear, fresh citrus, and subtle floral notes. A festive sip with a flirty finesse, Luminore's ebullient nature was inspired by the sunny hillsides of Valdobbiadene. 

Masottina "Le Rive di Ogliano" Conegliano Valdobbiandene Prosecco Superiore Extra Dry, 2017 DOCG ($27)
To understand the allure of Rive, this wine from Masottina is a superb example of why Prosecco Superiore from one of these 43 zones is so acclaimed -- it is an extraordinary conduit of terroir. Soft but well-structured, Le Rive di Ogliano Prosecco Superiore Extra Dry has more residual sugar than the brut, but the wine is so beautifully balanced that the sugar delicately lifts zesty citrus, crisp pear, juicy mandarin and wraps them around a mineral core. 

Mionetto Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG ($45)
Mionetto is one of the most popular Italian wine brands in the world, but few people realize that their rich history dates back to 1887. Founded by Francesco Mionetto in the heart of Valdobbiadene, their wines are known for consistency and quality. Their Cartizze is a step above and truly special; it is a limited-production wine that represents the highest quality of the Prosecco Superiore DOCG. Crafted from select grapes grown exclusively in a 246-acre area in the steepest hills of Valdobbiadene, Mionetto's Cartizze displays a seductive richness and texture that is surprisingly complex for Glera. But the grape's inherent grace remains and the gorgeous medley of pear, citrus, and apple flavors, with a touch of glazed almonds, powerfully express Glera's capacity to produce wines with nuance and depth.

 Congeliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG may be tricky to pronounce but so easy to love! Click here to learn more about these charming sparking wines. Cheers! 

 

The Prisoner Wine Company Boldly Breaks Free With An Edgy & Immersive Wine Tasting Experience

With their striking labels and unconventional wines, The Prisoner Wine Company has always prided itself on being different. Now they finally have a tasting room experience that matches their provocative spirit. Located on Napa Valley's Highway 29, The Prisoner Wine Company recently debuted their new Tasting Lounge and Makery. The ambitious project was a collaboration between San Francisco architect Matt Hollis and Richard Von Saal, interior designer and Napa Valley native. Drawing inspiration from The Prisoner's bold personality and the Francisco Goya painting that graces their often-photographed label, the exterior and interior spaces are a vivid tapestry of textures, colors, and shapes.
The wine that started it all -- The Prisoner Red Blend 2017 ($49).

I was recently invited to visit The Prisoner Wine Company's new digs and they have truly created an immersive experience that stimulates the senses. The artwork and architectural details give your eyes plenty to feast on while you're sipping. Dramatically crowned with a vaulted ceiling, other intriguing design elements include reclaimed wood from the original Bay Bridge and a diesel tank reimagined as a custom chandelier. The outdoor courtyard has living walls of plants and a wood-burning oven used to prepare select items for the wine pairing experiences. The property also has a garden that grows herbs and produce used in dishes served at the winery.

Unlike many tasting rooms where you just sidle up to a bar and stand while tasting a flight of wines, The Prisoner pulls you completely into their world. There's no need to uncomfortably rush your wine tasting experience, The Prisoner Wine Company's bespoke chairs and sofas beckon you to sit down and stay awhile. 

The Makery

The Prisoner lets the sunshine in via an 8-feet wide by 57-feet long skylight over my favorite space on the property, The Makery. Thoughtfully designed and outfitted in a way that elegantly balances impressive contemporary design with a non-intimidating comfortable vibe, The Makery celebrates craft and community by providing space for an evolving cadre of artisans, designers, and creators to display and vend their wares -- the unifying thread is that like The Prisoner Wine Company, these makers have a passion for innovation.


Go ahead and call me greedy, but I believe the open kitchen is one of the key attributes that distinguishes The Makery as the heart of the property. Watching the perfect choreography of Executive Chef Brett Young and his team as they glide in their gleaming new kitchen is a sight to behold.

Chevrè Agnolotti (Tahitian Squash, Chanterelle Mushroom, Smoked Egg Yolk) paired with The Prisoner Red Blend.

Melt-in-your mouth A5 Wagyu Beef Rib Eye cooked lightning fast over a 900 degree stone, paired with limited-release Headlock 2016 ($60), a captivating blend of Charbono from Calistoga, Petite Sirah from Lake County, and Syrah from Oak Knoll.

The food coming from the kitchen is truly exceptional. Creative, flavorful, and matched to perfection with The Prisoner's wines; Chef Young's menu features locally sourced ingredients, and some specialty items from afar, in a stellar fashion.

“We’re excited to have a home for visitors to experience The Prisoner Wine Company, whose very reason for being is to create thought-provoking and bold wines. Part of the fun for me has been blending lesser-known, hard-to-find grapes together to create new wines to be shared exclusively at the winery.” - Chrissy Wittmann, Director of Winemaking

So what about the wines? After all, that's the raison d'etre of The Prisoner Wine Company. You'd be hard-pressed to find a wine drinker that isn't familiar with their luxury red blend -- it was The Prisoner bottle with the Goya artwork and unusual blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Charbono that put The Prisoner Wine Company on the map nearly two decades ago.

Blindfold 2016 ($32) cleverly blends Chardonnay with Roussanne, Viognier, Chenin Blanc, Muscat, and Vermentino.

As famous as THAT bottle is, on my visit I discovered that The Prisoner Wine Company's portfolio includes an impressive selection of red, white, and rosé wines, each with an interesting back story and striking look. While many are available across the country, some are exclusive to the winery. Winemaker Chrissy Wittmann said that making wine at this level "is not an easy job by any means but I didn't sign up because it was going to be easy." That refusal to take the easy path seems to be the force that fuels The Prisoner Wine Company in winemaking, architecture, design, dining, and more. 

If your travels take you to Napa, a visit to The Prisoner Wine Company's sensational, shiny, and new space is certainly worth your time. Tasting experiences start at $45 per person and reservations are required. Click here for more details and to book your visit. 

Sips That Soar: The Sky's the Limit with Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Vermouth & Bitter Liqueur

Martini & Rossi dynamic duo Giuseppe “Beppe” Musso (Master Blender) and Ivano Tonutti (Master Herbalist). 

How fitting that my tasting appointment with the Martini & Rossi dynamic duo of Beppe Musso (Master Blender) and Ivano Tonutti (Master Herbalist) happened at The Aviary NYC, a veritable cocktail nirvana perched 35 floors above the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. These two charming gentleman showed me that there are truly no limits to the delicious drinks that can be created with Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Vermouth and Bitter Liqueur.

Martini & Rossi vermouth and bitter liqueur are the important foundation to many a stylish cocktail. However, we tend to overlook that even by themselves these bar essentials represent masterful blending that melds artistry and scientific precision. Many people mistakenly believe that vermouth is a spirit but it is actually wine that has been fortified with aromatic botanicals. Beppe Musso, master blender, has been making wine for almost three decades and said, "Wine is the base of our product." Ivano added, "Vermouth is wine and more. Wine is the skeleton. Botanicals add structure." In his role as master herbalist, Ivano who trained as a pharmacist, sources the finest botanicals and herbs available locally and around the globe. Consistency is key but these are "living formulas, not just recipes," said Beppe.

 
One of the most widely recognized brands in the world; Martini & Rossi has been producing vermouth at their historic headquarters in Piemonte, in northern Italy since 1863. That was also the year they introduced their classic Martini & Rossi Rosso Vermouth, an iconic product whose original blend remains unchanged. According to Beppe and Ivano, around the world 4 million drinks a day are served that include a Martini & Rossi brand! Tradition matters at Martini & Rossi but that commitment doesn't stifle their creativity. This respectful approach to innovation is beautifully displayed in their Riserva Speciale Rubino & Ambrato Vermouth and Bitter Liqueur 1872.



Elegant Nebbiolo is Piemonte's most famous red wine grape and provides an impressive foundation for Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino Vermouth di Torino ($25). Juicy, spicy, and luscious with warm spice flavors, Rubino adds depth and energy to a cocktail. I quite enjoy Rubino by itself as an after-dinner digestif, especially on a chilly winter night. Of course, the exact blend of herbs and botanicals is secret but I did hear that red sandalwood and artemisias (herbaceous plants and shrubs) contribute to its charms. 


The natural sweetness of Piemonte's famous Moscato d'Asti show its edgier side in Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Ambrato Vermouth di Torino ($25). The addition of botanicals like Roman chamomile to the Moscato d'Asti creates a beguiling bitter-sweet drink that balances lovely honey and floral flavors with tinges of exotic spices.

image by Daniel Krieger
As the name implies, Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Bitter Liqueur 1872 ($27) is not wine based but has a foundation of pure neutral alcohol. Infused with aromatic herbs and bitter woods, it adds finesse and texture to classic cocktails like the Negroni.


In the Rocks Negroni, prepared with Riserva Speciale Rubino Vermouth and Riserva Speciale Bitter Liqueur, is available at The Aviary NYC. 
image by Daniel Krieger

The Martini & Rossi website has recipes for creative cocktails using the Riserva Speciale vermouths and bitter liqueur. Of course, Martini & Rossi products are staples of bars around the globe but if you're visiting NYC, head up to The Aviary at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel for an elevated drink like the In the Rocks Negroni. Or you can mix it up at home using the recipe below! Pleasing to the palate and the eye, In the Rocks Negroni is a festive drink for the holiday season that is certain to delight your guests. Like Beppe and Ivano said, "Martini & Rossi is a lifestyle. Happiness is in the DNA of the brand!"

In the Rocks Negroni

1 oz Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino Vermouth

3/4 oz Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Bitter Liqueur

3/4 oz Bombay Sapphire Gin

3 dashes of Orange Bitters

Served in ice sphere that is broken upon serving

Eat, Drink and Let Laughter Flow: Life Lessons from Winemaker Michel Chapoutier

 

I had been warned that this would be no ordinary winemaker lunch but nothing could have prepared me for the force of nature that is Michel Chapoutier. Gregarious and unfiltered, this icon from the Rhône Valley shatters any image that you may have of a prim and reserved French winemaker. Michel lives life with gusto and if you choose not to go along for the ride, that's your loss! 

"A winemaker has to be obsessed by food," said Michel as we tucked into a superb lunch at Troquet, a charming and cozy French restaurant in NYC's Soho neighborhood. To reinforce his point, Michel playfully grabbed a love handle and chuckled "imagine how much it cost me to do that!" and proclaimed it the expensive side-effect of using the influential French restaurant review directory, the Michelin Guide. Not just an enthusiastic gourmand, Michel is also a talented home chef and I've heard rave reviews from those fortunate enough to enjoy a meal prepared by Michel.


Food and wine together, as they were meant to be. Wine by M. Chapoutier, food by Troquet.

As a winemaker, Michel's passion for cuisine is rooted in his belief that a true winemaker "understands that food and wine have to be married. Too many winemakers are making wines that are powerful but don't pair well with food." For Michel, the relationship between wine and food should be one of equals, "it should not be a dominant/subordinate relationship."

Like Jagger or Springsteen for music lovers, the name Chapoutier is revered among wine aficionados. The Chapoutier family settled in the Rhône Valley in 1808 and their wines represent some of the most prestigious appellations in the world; including Hermitage, Côte Rôtie, and Châteuneuf-du-Pape. Michel took over the family legacy in 1990, at the young age of 26. Since his tenure as leader, M. Chapoutier winery has earned more 90+ ratings in Wine Spectator than any other winemaker in the world. 


image courtesy of M. Chapoutier

"Come to Tain l’Hermitage and you will see our connection to the vineyards: our winery and our homes are surrounded by the vineyards where we grow our grapes. When I walk outside my door, I find myself in the middle of our vines,” said Michel. Proud of tradition but not afraid to innovate, Chapoutier was one of the first winemakers and grape growers to convert a historic estate to biodynamic and chemical-free farming. And in an industry still dominated by men, more than half of the executives at his company are women. Even his daughter Mathilde has turned her attention to winemaking and makes a mighty fine rosé! 

I've written about Chapoutier's wines many times over the years and their quality and vitality never cease to impress me. Filled with life and vigor, these wines are a true reflection of Michel's personality and his commitment to crafting wines that authentically express the essence of their terroir. Chapoutier has an extensive portfolio of wines at all price points but our lunch featured 4 very special bottles. 


M. Chapoutier La Combe Pilate IGP Collines Rhodaniennes 2016 ($38.99)
100% Viognier from a hillside vineyard near Michel's home, La Combe fully explores the winemaker's commitment to biodynamic winemaking and is part of his experimental range called The Alchemy Wines. The symbol on the bottle is the alchemic symbol for spirit and references Chapoutier's commitment to crafting wines that authentically showcase the spirit of the land. Fresh and savory with great minerality and texture, Michel recommends pairing La Combe with spicy food.


M. Chapoutier Hermitage Chante-Alouette 2016 ($110)
100% Marsanne and a fine example of Michel's belief that the best wines are made from one grape variety. This coveted appellation of Hermitage is named after the tiny chapel at its highest point that was once home to hermits. Marsanne is capable of making some of the world's top and most long-lived whites. This majestic wine is complex and full bodied with vibrant flavors of quince and honey with a tinge of almond and ginger. A great match with seafood or a rustic roast chicken.



M. Chapoutier Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne 2012 ($135)
Such a sensational Syrah! Unfiltered and unfined, Monier de la Sizeranne is a pristine and pure expression of terroir; rich and round with deep flavors of black fruits and a touch of licorice. Starting with Sizeranne in 1996, Chapoutier was the first winery to put Braille on a wine label. Now all Chapoutier wines have Braille labels. Sizeranne is a tribute to another icon of the Rhône, Maurice de la Sizeranne. Born in 1857, Maurice lost his sight when he was nine years old and later in life he perfected the system of abbreviated Braille widely used today in France. Chapoutier sources the grapes for Monier de la Sizeranne from land that was formerly owned by the Sizeranne family and later purchased by Chapoutier's great-grandfather. A perfect match with steak, roast, or lamb.



M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Pavillon 2014 ($320)
Only 600 cases are produced each year of this seriously sexy and elegant Syrah. Supple and velvety with focused power, it is a compelling balance of strength and grace. Bold fruit flavors meld seamlessly with subtle hints of piquant licorice and earthy tobacco. A flawless match with roasted and juicy red meat paired with root vegetables and excellent company.

Michel Chapoutier's joie de vivre is contagious! Yes, he's a wine icon who approaches winemaking with absolute seriousness and authenticity, but Michel doesn't let his tremendous success and elite position hinder his capacity for unabashed laughter, even at himself. Great wine and delicious food, paired with a hearty dose of laughter, and fulfilling work fueled by passion; I plan to follow Michel's recipe for living life to the fullest!

A Tale of Two Bottles: My Favorite Neighbor and Faust Wines Show Artistry Inside and Out

An eye-catching label is no guarantee that the wine within will captivate you but what joy when a bottle is beautiful inside and out! The best wines tell a story and the look of the physical bottle often conveys the winemaker's style and inspiration. I recently tasted two wonderful wines from California whose exterior and interior artistry were perfectly in sync. Meet My Favorite Neighbor and Faust! 

My Favorite Neighbor 2016 ($80)
Paso Robles, California
The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of family, friends, and community. Great neighbors make an impact on our lives, in ways big and small. The labels of My Favorite Neighbor wines honor the people who work with winemaker Eric Jensen to make honest wines that express the terroir of their Paso Robles vineyards, in central California. This particular bottle features a striking photograph of vineyard canopy management specialist Aurelio by photographer Greg Gorman. Aurelio has been farming grapes for 16 years and believes that wine was created by the gods.... and him. My Favorite Neighbor 2016 is a Cabernet Sauvignon based red blend with some Syrah and Petit Verdot. Voluptuous and graceful with rich dark fruit flavors and a touch of espresso, dark chocolate, earthy graphite, and a tinge of spice; this is a beautifully made wine that powerfully expresses the winemaking team’s passion for authenticity. All neighbors should have so much complexity and finesse! Visit the My Favorite Neighbor website to see images of the other cool folks featured on the wine bottles.

image courtesy of Faust Wines

Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 ($110)
Napa Valley, California
Nothing gets the party going like a magnum. Like they say - go big or go home! This limited-edition Faust 2016 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Graffiti Magnum is the second vintage collaboration between Faust Wines and acclaimed street artist Faust New York. The words of Goethe, “Live Dangerously and You Live Right” are the bottle’s inspiration and artwork. An exceptionally balanced blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot from estate vineyards in Coombsville and Rutherford and sourced from mountain growers in Atlas Peak, Mount Veeder, and Howell Mountain; it tells the story of terroir. This is no big oak bomb. The wine is captivatingly silky and elegant; the flavors of the grapes really shine through and are gently enhanced by French oak. Juicy and luscious with earthy nuance, it’s an elegant and well-crafted wine.