2020 Cathiard Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

There are 9,000 bottles of the flagship 2020 Cathiard Vineyard Proprietary Red, a sturdy blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. Marked by scents of black cherries, cassis and cedar, this debut is medium to full-bodied and nicely proportioned but also a bit astringent and drying, in need of time to come together. Finishing with savory elements of mocha, earth and black olives, this wine offers a promising juxtaposition of California fruit with Bordelais sensibilities regarding structure and aging.

This is a great wine to come out of the gate with for the Cathiard's new property, gorgeously balanced, expands through the mid-palate, delivers dark chocolate, charcoal, blackcurrant, damson, spiced greengage plum and pomegranate fruits with floral undertones (I believe there is a sliver of Cabernet Franc in here, although very clearly the dominant grape is Cabernet Sauvignon). Feels fresher in many ways than the Founding Brothers, without sacrificing concentration and clarity, because the moutwatering acidity is more apparent, giving it a luscious sign-off. 30hl/h yield. This is largely from the Up and down vineyard plot (named by the Cathiards for obvious reasons), where much of the oldest vine stock is concentrated. Justine Labbé winemaker, Frederick Ammons consultant, 80% new oak. Harvest September 10 to October 1.

This is a great wine to come out of the gate with for the Cathiard's new property, gorgeously balanced, expands through the mid-palate, delivers dark chocolate, charcoal, blackcurrant, damson, spiced greengage plum and pomegranate fruits with floral undertones (I believe there is a sliver of Cabernet Franc in here, although very clearly the dominant grape is Cabernet Sauvignon). Feels fresher in many ways than the Founding Brothers, without sacrificing concentration and clarity, because the moutwatering acidity is more apparent, giving it a luscious sign-off. 30hl/h yield. This is largely from the Up and down vineyard plot (named by the Cathiards for obvious reasons), where much of the oldest vine stock is concentrated. Justine Labbé winemaker, Frederick Ammons consultant, 80% new oak. Harvest September 10 to October 1.