2021 Cornell Cabernet Sauvignon

Among the wooded peaks of the Mayacamas range lies our vineyard home, an oasis above the fog where we tune into a collaboration with nature. While we are not the first pioneers to cultivate and enjoy this idyllic site, it remains untamed and unpredictable. Evidence of 19th century grapevines were found at the outset of our development. The work of photographer Harry Taylor pays tribute to this layered history with an antique tintype process. The result is an impression of the land’s elusive spirit across time.

In 2021, the region experienced little moisture from late Winter through Spring. Despite low rainfall, our vineyard saw exemplary canopy growth and fruit set. Veraison in July transpired rapidly, an indicator of high quality fruit and easy extraction come fermentation. Intermittent waves of intense but manageable heat in late summer set us up for an early harvest at ideal ripeness.

Intricate and deep, the 2021 Estate Cabernet beckons with heady aromas of cocoa, candied orange, and violets. This wine swells and glimmers with dark, luxe fruit. An assemblage of blueberry, creme de cassis, and wild blackberry is freckled with savory notes of fennel seed, verbena, and coffee beans. Long, voluminous tannin offers strength and longevity while the fruit maintains our terroir’s breezy, carefree quality, echoing a warm summer day on the mountain.