2017 Saunter Eagle Summit Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2017 Saunter Eagle Summit Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon entices on the nose with blackberry, vanilla extract, flowers, tar, and sage, with a hint of blood orange. The palate presents a tightly wound core of black fruit, crushed rock, and underbrush. Slow to uncoil and buttressed by sturdy tannin, over time chocolate ganache and cocoa powder are revealed offering a glimpse into the enjoyment to come. Give it a couple of years in the cellar to evolve (or an extended decant) and then enjoy over the next couple decades. HOLD (2023 – 2043)

The Eagle Summit Vineyard, owned by the Doty family, was the first vineyard that Josh replanted upon his return to the Napa Valley.  It was replanted in 2000 to Cabernet Sauvignon with two different rootstock and clonal selections.  The soil is composed of well-drained Aiken loam and is comprised of a mix of rich red soil and classic Howell Mountain rocks.  There is the use of a permanent cover crop to help dry down spring soils and promote smaller, concentrated fruit.  The vineyard is situated at an elevation of 2100 feet and is slightly rolling.  Eagle Summit is one of those vineyards that, year after year, performs consistently and offers up the highest quality of fruit with very little manipulation.