Thanks to the cool sea air from Monterey Bay, which blows through the vineyards daily, it enjoys a long growing season. This is perfect for grape varieties that ripen well in these conditions. Cabernet Sauvignon, however, requires a bit more sun and is therefore planted on the southern slopes of the valley. The grapes ripen very slowly, resulting in complex and well-structured wines.
This District 7 Cabernet Sauvignon blends fruit from two estate vineyards. Hames Valley Vineyard is located near the San Luis Obispo County border. Sheltered from afternoon winds, it has the largest diurnal temperature swings in the county. The combination of warm days, cool nights, and a long growing season makes it an ideal location for big, tannic reds. The San Lucas Vineyard is Monterey County's climatic turning point for Bordeaux-colored varietals, with warm, sunny days and cool, calm nights.
The grapes were harvested in the early morning based on ripeness and acidity. At the winery, the fruit is sorted, crushed, and fermented in small batches. Gentle handling and minimal intervention preserved the integrity of the varietal and the character of the individual sites. The wine is then aged for 10 months in French, American, and Hungarian oak barrels. The Cabernet Sauvignon is wonderfully dark with aromas and flavors of blackberry, elderberry, and black cherry, with hints of fresh tarragon, vanilla, and toasted oak. It is ripe, round, and juicy with soft, integrated tannins and a lingering finish of bright black fruit. This is ideal with beef and game dishes, as well as vegetarian dishes such as mushroom risotto.
