Benchland Select is a special blend of five clones of Cabernet Sauvignon from two superior vineyards in the gently sloping western benchlands of Rutherford and Oakville. These vineyards benefit from cool afternoon shade provided by the Mayacamas Mountains, allowing the grapes to mature at a slow, even pace, and gravelly loam soils affording excellent drainage. Each lot is gently destemmed and fermented separately in small stainless steel tanks designed to maximize color, flavor and tannin extraction. Yeast strains, fermentation temperatures, maceration techniques and barrel aging regimens were specifically tailored to the character of each lot to capture the finest attributes of each vineyard block in the final blend. The blend spent 22 months aging in French oak barrels, 60% new, prior to bottling.

91 Points
Wine Enthusiast
2017 vintage
94 Points
Wine Advocate
2017 vintage
Harvest Note
After several years of drought, 2017 saw see ample rainfall in Napa Valley during the winter. Cool spring weather offered ideal conditions for flowering and “berry set”—when each tiny flower turns into a young grape. Temperatures were moderate through the summer, for slow, even ripening. Toward harvest, the temperatures turned warmer, delivering small clusters with tremendous varietal character and balanced acidity.
Tasting Note
Aromas of dark blackberry, boysenberry and mocha lead onto the palate of dark fruit, roundness and texture. Concentrated flavors of ripe blackberry and fig dance with firm tannins for a rich blackberry and dark chocolate finish.
Food Pairing
Enjoy with hearty stews, steaks on the grill, or fire-roasted vegetables.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
APPELLATION: Napa Valley
PH: 3.62
ACIDITY: 0.67 g/100ml
ABV: 14.9%
AGING: 22 months aging in French oak barrels, 60% new
Unique Selling Points
  • From two prime benchland vineyards in Rutherford and Oakville
  • Each lot fermented and matured separately for utmost fruit and terroir expression
  • Matured 22 months in French oak barrels, 60% new

About the Grape

Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is adaptable to various growing conditions, and is known for its low yield and late ripeness. It generally produces full-bodied wines with substantial acidity and tannins.
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