Born from fire and magmatic rock, Igneous Cabernet Sauvignon pays homage to the volcanic nature of the Calistoga Growing District. Situated at the gateway of the Napa River headwaters and the alluvial base of Mount Saint Helena, we find magmatic forces that jettison healing hot springs, mineral rich soils, and a slightly warmer than average growing environment. Ideal conditions for producing perfection in the glass!

THE PURPOSE:

The vineyard at Kenefick Ranch is among one of the oldest, continuously farmed vineyards in the area and sits on an alluvial fan of volcanic ash. Hot days and cool nights define this location where conditions are perfect for ripening Bordeaux varieties.

We chose to highlight the Calistoga District with the production of this wine due to its distinct variation in soil topography (from gravelly bed, to benchland tufa, to mountain volcanics) and growing climate, at 15 degrees warmer on average than the southernmost Carneros District. This is a heartier, more moderately tannic style of wine due to the heavy influence of volcanic alluvial bench and gravelly soils in this wine. Fans of old-school producers such as Diamond Creek Vineyard and Reverie will enjoy that style influence which forms the base of this wine. The bottom layer is complemented by the softening and ripening effects in the mid-layers we find coming from the Kenefick Ranch Vineyard’s growing environment, where optimal ripeness is achieved each year within this section of the valley. What a wonderful addition to our single-vineyard, allocated lineup!

WINEMAKER’S RECORD:

This wine begins with wonderful purple color and aromatics that fall within the black fruit spectrum. Blackberry preserve and currant syrup fill the senses and pique curiosity. As this wine opens up, the background notes of sweet vanillin and earth come forth. The palate is firm and polished with a wonderful glide from start to finish. Boy this wine has some power! Cassis, anise, dried currant, blackberry and black cherry are all intertwined. The acid and tannins are perfectly balanced, creating a savory texture that causes a desire for more. Delicious!

PRODUCTION Essentials

Method | Hand Picked and Destemmed Via Pellenc Sorting System, 100% Gravity Flow to Concrete Diamond and Open Top Fermenters, Utilizing 100% Native Yeast Primary and Secondary Fermentations Over 18 Days with Extended Macerations of 21-28 days, Diaphragm Air Pumps (Forced Air Pressure)—Bulldogging—and Transfers Via Gravity Only, Gentle Barrel-To-Tank Racking. Bottled unfiltered.

Aging Regimen | 20 Months, 85% New French Oak, Bottled Unfiltered