2017 Laurel Glen Vineyard Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

94 points - Cellar Selection - Wine Enthusiast: "With a complex structure of firm tannin and substantial length, this youthful wine shows a juiciness of currant, a complement to the wealth of sage, cedar and pencil shaving that more impactfully define it. Entirely varietal, it will age well; enjoy best from 2027 through 2035."

THE STORY

Laurel Glen Vineyard faces east, above the fog line. This optimal exposure captures the first rays of morning sunlight and avoids the burning heat of late afternoon. The thin, rocky soils promote efficient drainage and restrain vigor.

The vineyard earned CCOF Organic Certification in 2014, thanks to the efforts of Viticulturist Phil Coturri. In addition to developing a comprehensive schedule of cover crops, he has updated the vineyard’s trellising system and pruning practices to achieve more even ripening and concentration in the grapes.

VINTAGE NOTES

What started as an excellent harvest was upended by the wildfires that ravaged Sonoma County in October. The hot, dry weather that settled in late August led to an earlier than usual start to harvest. We started picking Cabernet Sauvignon on September 14, unusually early for our east facing mountain vineyard. Three weeks later, on October 8th, that same hot, dry weather contributed to widespread wildfires. Over an acre of vines planted in the 1970's as well as a small amount of unharvested fruit were damaged. We count ourselves lucky that most of the 2017 crop was safe in the winery by early October.

TASTING NOTES

"Inky purple color with aromas of cherry, blackberry, sage, peppercorns, and just a hint of cocoa. Supple and finely textured, the wine has great freshness and depth, juicy acidity and tannins that are both firm and velvety."

- Randall Watkins, Winemaker