2007 Cabernet Sauvignon , Sonoma Valley, Amapola Creek Estate

The Vineyard 

Spread along 600 vertical feet of a sun-washed western slope of the Mayacamas range, our Amapola Creek ranch of 100-plus acres borders the highly acclaimed Monte Rosso Vineyards.
The red, basaltic volcanic soils we share with our esteemed next-door neighbor have yielde1 superb wine for more than a century. The rhyolitic soils from our China Wall Vineyard add a firm tannin structure to the French clone Cabernet Sauvignon vines planted there in 2000. All 20 acres of our mountain estate vineyards are CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers). Three of our four estate blocks, China Wall, Bob Cat Run, and Fox Trot Meadow, were the sources for our 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. Using grapes from these three distinct microclimates and soil profiles allows master blender Richard Arrowood to showcase the diverse terroir of our vineyards.

The Vintage

The 2007 growing season was excellent, not too hot, with a very temperate climate; a vineyard owner's dreams come true. Three cool weeks in April attenuated an early start to the 2007 growing season, with reasonable fruit set occurring in May and June. Temperatures were ideal through June, and only a few days were over 100°F. When heat returned in late August, it was not extreme. Most of September was quite mild with adequate humidity, despite a dry year. Moderate heat spikes and mild nights resulted in a long hang time, producing a fruit-driven wine with fully ripe flavors and mature tannins. 

Tasting Notes 

Effusive fruit is the dominant factor of our concentrated 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, the first vintage produced and bottled at our new Amapola Creek Estate Winery. The elegant beginnings have a nose of rich black cherries, blackberries, and cassis aromatics. A delicate hint of toasty oak and vanilla displays the true varietal nature of Cabernet Sauvignon. The mouth feel has firm, yet plush acidity over fine tannins with complex layers of black fruits, and very long finish. Just a touch of dark chocolate leaves an impression on the finish.

This wine is unfined and unfiltered. Drink now or hold for 10-plus years.