Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon

Blend: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon 17% Merlot 2% Malbec 1% Petite Verdot

The Vintage: 2010 presented the Napa Valley’s coolest growing season in recent memory. It created an extended ripening period that was excellent for flavor development. The Cabernet Sauvignon fruit ripened slowly and evenly from May through the end of September. The grapes were then harvested from the middle of October to the end of October when the grapes displayed a wonderful balance between sweet ripeness

and a refined structure.

Winemaking: The grapes were grown in vineyards located in St. Helena, Rutherford, Calistoga, Yountville and Oak Knoll and harvested during the entire month of October. The fruit was fermented at an average of 85°F with gentle pump-overs for excellent flavor and color extraction. The wine was aged in a combination of American and French oak barrels for 20 months and blended to attain balance. Merlot increased texture and softness on the mid-palate while the Petite Verdot and Malbec added color, complexity and additional layers of ripe fruit flavors to the wine.

Tasting Notes: This striking 2010 Cabernet is loaded with bright, vibrant fruit and has exceptional body to match. The aromas and flavors of blackberry, currant, black cherry and toasty oak meld exquisitely with ample midpalate weight, a silky mouth-feel and luxurious tannins that add good length to the finish. A great wine to enjoy today but it will also improve through cellar aging beyond 2020.