2014 Red Head Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

"The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Head Vineyard is a terrific example of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Possessing an extra gear and level of concentration, the wine has an inky bluish purple color and a sweet kiss of blueberry, blackcurrant and spice box as well as a floral note. It is full-bodied, opulent and voluptuously textured, all hallmarks of this 2014 vintage. The finish is opulent, and the wine long, showing complexity and secondary nuances, and giving no excuse to defer one’s gratification. This is a sumptuous beauty to drink over the next 15 or so years." ~ 94pts Robert Parker, WA #228

The Red Head Vineyard, owned by Ed and Jan Brown of Charlotte, North Carolina, and named after Jan who is a redhead, is located on Old Soda Springs Road on the Southeast end of the Napa Valley. Once a llama pasture, Ed and Jan bought the property in 2005 with plans to plant a vineyard on the rocky hillside. In 2007, Josh began the development of the 7.5-acre hillside vineyard. The row direction was selected in order to maximize heat collection and minimize sunburn. Crossarms are positioned to allow dappled sunlight to reach the fruit, which also maximizes heat collection and minimizes sunburn. Permanent cover crop is planted to help control springtime moisture and encourage small berries with concentrated fruit. Soil Series is Kidd loam and only about 24” deep and full of small cobble and tumbled round rocks.  The Vineyard elevation is 220-280 feet and the slope is facing the Southwest. 

The Saunter Red Head Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 100% clone 685 grown on 101-14 rootstock. The clone 685 has consistently given us a characteristic essence of blueberries, uniform ripening and great minerality.