The beginning of the 2019 growing season was defined by copious rainfall and late soil moisture. The long, warm summer saw very few extreme heat events, with foggy mornings setting the stage for vibrant and expressive wines. The long, relatively mild finish to the season, not without its moments of unpredictability, helped to preserve freshness and finesse in the fruit with abundant hang time teasing out great color, structure and soft tannins. All in all, exceptional fruit with bright acidity and ample texture promises an amazing vintage.

The Chimney Rock Estate is blessed with a diversity of soil and topography that breeds complexity in our wines. To the east, our steep hills and shallow soils bring us density and power. On the north end, our proximity to the Palisades gifts us with ripeness and purity of fruit. To the south, our proximity to the bay brings us breezes that add the nuance of cooler climate–adding hints of dried herbs and mint. It is this diversity that has enabled us to represent the quintessence of Stags Leap District–the tension between grace and power, the balance of finesse and muscle. We are delighted to share our 35th vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon: Its beauty proclaims we are here to stay.

The 2020 is rich and beautifully focused from top to bottom. Deep, vibrant red fruits and baking spices aromas inform the palate that is supple, serious, and wonderfully fresh. This will pair better with light or heartier dishes and although charming now, it will continue to improve over several years.