This is our signature Cabernet Sauvignon made exclusively from grape clusters from our shy-bearing hillside vineyard located at the headwaters of historic Cyrus Creek. The harvest began at the breaking of the frigid dawn of October 21, 2019. The 2019 growing season had lots of rain and late soil moisture. The long, warm summer had very few extreme heat events, and foggy mornings with warm afternoons allowed for great hangtime. The long, mild summer gave great color, structure and soft tannins, one that seemed well suited to the particular teroir of Cyrus Creek. Once again we turned to our gifted, fourth generation wine maker, Massimo Monticelli, who has been responsible for the great success of our previous vintages. The hand-culled fruit arrived at the winery in virtually perfect condition; small berried, deep black-blue in color and loose on the clusters, all coveted characteristics of Diamond Mountain clone 4 cabernet. Following an extended cold soak, the unhurried fermentation began. Fermentation was followeed by a fourteen day period of extended maceration. The wine was then gently pressed and transferred to new Taransaud French Oak barrels where it aged with minimal disturbance for the next 20 months.
The resulting wine is a gem with deep ruby color finishing to the edge of the glass. The elegant aroma, so typical of Cyrus Creek Cabernet, commences with the elegant first impression of the minerality reflective of its Diamond Mountain origins combined with notes of wet granite and dried herbs which then gives way to subtle impressions of anise, cassis and pomegranate. The rich, plush mouth feel, velvety smooth on the palate, is manifest by flavors of black cherry, plum and dark chocolate evidence of the typically of clone 4. A wonderful mineral note shines through the entire experience enhanced by a lingering finish balanced by the supple ripeness of the ripe tannins. This is a wine most suitable for enjoying now or over the next 5 to seven years. For optimal appreciation, its best opened at least one hour before serving.