2019 Castiel Three Bottle Set in Wood Box

The 2019 Castiel Cabernet comes entirely from the steep, higher-elevation slopes of Howell Mountain District. These vineyards see cooler summertime high temperatures, and slightly warmer temperatures during autumn nights than the valley floor, which leads to a longer hang-time with slightly higher acidity. 

During the growing season of 2019, decent winter/spring rains followed by a relatively cool, even growing season gave the vineyards a lovely, moderate glidepath into full maturity.  The finished wine reflects its season in the aromas, the flavor intensity and in the overall texture.   The 2019 Castiel Cabernet shows aromas of fully ripe currant, warm black cherries, fresh sage and hints of clove.  On the palate, the entry is fresh and bright, evolving into a mid-palate that shows density and dark berry flavors. As the wine fades, the lingering impression is of satiny tannins and juicy black cherry notes. 
 
Four clones of Cabernet Sauvignon (See, 191, 337, and 169) were harvested between October 3 and October 24, 2019.  Each clone was fermented separately and kept separate in French oak barrels (65% new) for the first 12 months. The wines were blended and returned to oak for an additional 8 months prior to bottling in May 2021.  The wine was bottled without fining or filtration.   Total production was 520 cases.