The St. Helena appellation, located in the north of the valley, is one of the oldest and most prestigious in California. Owned by the Beckstoffer family, Las Piedras vineyard is located – true to its name – on exceptionally stony soils derived from ancient alluvial deposits, giving the wine concentration, power and a subtle minerality. The grapes are harvested by hand and sorted carefully before being vinified in small stainless-steel vats. Fermentation is followed by extended ageing of 20 months in new French oak barrels, giving the wine complexity, tension and elegance.
The colour is deep, almost black garnet. On the nose, it reveals an intense bouquet of blackcurrant, black cherries, truffle and sweet spices, with a hint of subtle, noble woodiness. The palate is sumptuous with rich, velvety tannins, perfectly integrated freshness and an impressively long finish that shifts between black fruits, blond tobacco and crushed stone.