From a high elevation, dry-farmed site planted in 2000, this wine consists of 55% Merlot, 20% Cabernet, and 25% Cab Franc. After a cold-soaking encouraged a native fermentation, the wine was blended and aged for 19th months is French and American oak, 30% new. Dark, youthful in appearance, the wine shows vibrant herbal and plum aromas with a touch of cocoa. On the palate it seems light and bright with refined delicate berry/fruit flavors, rounded by ultra soft tannins. It has a delightful long finish. The oak remains in the background but should come into play with cellaring. Mount Veeder is one of Napa’s coolest sites for Bordeaux varieties. Overall, a charming, refined wine reminiscent of a Margaux. 321 case produced.
Ashes & Diamonds Winery, Mount Veeder, Napa Valley (California) 2017
By Norm Roby