2015 Battuello Cabernet Sauvignon
ABOUT BATTUELLO
We are fortunate to source grapes from some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon growers in the Napa Valley. To honor the vineyards that stand out, each year we will produce the Distinguished Vineyards wines. In 2015, we chose Battuello Vineyard in St. Helena as one of those vineyards because of their rich history and commitment to quality.
VINEYARDS & WINEMAKING
The Battuello Vineyard is a fourth-generation, family-run vineyard in St. Helena – with the fifth generation already living on the farm. The current patriarch (Craig) and his sons (Dave and Mark) meticulously farm the vineyard. Craig and Dave jointly-own the vineyard and Dave takes great pride in carrying on the family tradition. Known for an impeccable farming style, each block is farmed individually. The 2015 is primarily from the “Rockpile,” which is an older block grown in gravelly loam that is full of cobblestones. The area is aptly named, and yields complex wine with beautiful dark fruit and berry flavors and lingering, silky tannins. Grapes were also sourced from Block 12B. The grapes were harvested between September 1 to 7. After fermentation, the wine was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak.
VINTAGE
Overall, 2015 was a year with lower than usual crop size but with high quality fruit. The growing season was hot and dry, and harvest started and ended early. A very warm and relatively dry winter led to early bud break but, conversely, temperatures were abnormally low during the bloom period in May. During this extended bloom, there were two small rain events that resulted in a high incidence of ‘shatter,’ reducing tonnage. While it was a challenging vintage, by continually adjusting to the challenges and employing best practices, the grapes brought into the winery were of high quality.
TASTING NOTES
This Cabernet Sauvignon is filled with aromas of black cherry, raspberry and chocolate. On the palate, the wine has a creamy texture with silky tannins and a lingering finish.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Roasted duck breast with a berry compote would make a perfect pairing.