Vineyard: Star Springs Ranch (formerly Ellis Alden Vineyard) sits at an elevation of 1700 feet along the sun-drenched western slopes of the Mayacamas Mountains in the Alexander Valley. Isolated within a sprawling 4,000 acre ranch, the 200 acres of vines enjoy a pristine growing environment, above the fog line and sheltered from wind, frost, and negative pathogens. Our Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a prime hillside spot on the North Knoll with southern exposure that packs the grapes with powerful structure and expressive flavors.

Vintage: The 2019 growing season began with heavy rains in March and April, which allowed soils to store up plenty of water to weather the dramatic heat spikes we witnessed in June and mid-August. Other than those brief events, the growing season was relatively mild and we were able to take advantage of the extended hangtime from this mountain site. Harvest at Star Springs Ranch came on October 8th, producing grapes with bright, expressive fruit flavors and balanced acidity at moderate sugar levels. The long hang times and even ripening yielded wines that show concentrated flavor and structure without being over-ripe - an ideal California vintage.

Winemaking: Our Cabernet Sauvignon from Star Springs Ranch was destemmed into one open-top tank, where it cold-soaked for several days before fermentation started spontaneously with wild yeast. Fermentation was aided only by a bit of heat and daily pump-overs for two weeks before pressing. The wine aged for 24 months in 75% new French oak barrels and was bottled unfiltered.

Tasting Notes: Thick in berry and vanilla, this is an earthy vineyard-specific wine, robust in tannin and oaky shadows. Richly decadent, it has acidity that keeps it in check and makes it delicious now, though it could stand some cellaring. Enjoy 2023 through 2035.