2014 Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon
The 2014 Grgich Hills Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley exemplifies the winery’s dedication to crafting exceptional wines through organic and biodynamic farming practices.
Tasting Notes
- Aromas: This wine presents complex aromas of black currants, clove, mocha, and licorice, complemented by rich leather and subtle violet nuances.
- Flavors: On the palate, it offers a full-bodied experience with firm tannins and rich notes of baking spice, dark plum, and vanilla, leading to a long, lingering finish.
- Texture: The mouthfeel is rich and full-bodied, with fine-grain tannins and balanced acidity that enhance the wine’s freshness and structure.
Food Pairings
It pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes such as grilled steak, rack of lamb, or roasted duck. Its robust structure and complex flavors also complement rich stews and aged cheeses.
Vineyard Technical Specifications:
- Appellation: Napa Valley, California
- Vineyard Sources: Primarily from Grgich Hills’ Yountville vineyard, with contributions from their Rutherford and Calistoga vineyards.
- Farming Practices: Certified organic and biodynamic, emphasizing natural cultivation without artificial pesticides or herbicides.
- Blend Composition: 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 4.5% Petit Verdot, and 2.5% Cabernet Franc.
- Harvest Dates: September 16-23, 2014
- Fermentation: Utilized indigenous yeast with four weeks of skin contact to extract deep color and flavor.
- Aging: Aged for 21 months in French oak barrels, 60% of which were new, to impart subtle oak influences and enhance complexity.
- Alcohol Content: 14.5% by volume
- Total Acidity: 6.0 g/L
- pH Level: 3.52
- Production: 15,282 cases
The 2014 growing season was characterized by warm and dry conditions, leading to early ripening and the development of ultra-ripe grape seeds. This resulted in an ethereal wine with fine-grain tannins and preserved acidity, making it lush and approachable.