This red wine is an iconic expression of the Rutherford terroir, a prestigious sub-appellation of Napa Valley. Sycamore Vineyard, located south of Rutherford, benefits from soils containing gravel, silt and alluvial clay, which promotes optimal drainage while retaining sufficient moisture to allow the grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The grapes are harvested by hand and meticulously sorted before fermenting in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats. The wine is aged in French oak barrels for around 24 months with a significant percentage of new wood, which gives the wine its velvety texture and subtle woody notes.
The colour is a deep ruby red, with tints of garnet. The nose opens with complex aromas of blackcurrants, blackberries, cacao, cedar and blond tobacco. The attack on the palate is dense and the tannins silky driven by a lovely acidity. The finish is long and persistent, marked by notes of graphite, leather and sweet spices.