Winemaker’s Notes
Set high on the ridge
overlooking Rector Canyon and Napa Valley some 1600 feet below, this 24-acre
vineyard is planted on a westfacing slope of well-drained, volcanic soils.
Townsend Vineyard's architecture is based on Antinori’s planting philosophy for
newvineyards in Tuscany. High density vine spacing ensures low production of
fruit per vine. Vine rows are aligned from east to west to achieve ideal sun
exposure. Vines are trained low to the ground to take advantage of radiant heat
from the volcanic rock and soils. Finally, the ideal rootstock and clones of
Cabernet Sauvignon were chosen to complement Townsend's terroir ensuring the
best fruit expression. Only 22% of the grapes from this vineyard were selected
for Townsend Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.
Critical Acclaim
“More statuesque and
compelling is the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Townsend Vineyard. Initially
restrained, this dense ruby/purple-colored wine offers up notes of forest
floor, blackberries and cassis along with a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and
attractive elegance and purity. Multilayered with sweet tannin, it should age
nicely for 15+ years.” -93 Robert Parker’s Wine
Advocate
“Doesn't say so on the
label, but this is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, from the Atlas Peak area. Very dry
and tannic, with an astringent lockdown, it's functionally undrinkable now, but
it does show the intensity of this mountainous region for Cabernet, with
explosive blackberry, blueberry and black currant flavors. All indications are
that it's an ager. Hold until 2015, at the very least.” – 94 Wine Enthusiast
