Antaeus
2011 Napa Estate
Winemaker notes:
Antaeus, the son of water and earth in Greek mythology, is the symbol of strength derived from the soil. So too this wine, deriving strength from the matching of site and grape on every part of our land. The intensity derived from red clay soils is here in full, while the coolness of our site provides the acid balance so essential to a wine’s grace and longevity.
Tasting notes:
The Zinfandel component of this wine is first on the nose and palate, with the scent and taste of berries and spice. Then, rapidly merging with the fruit, are minerals and herbs and the sauvage that is Cabernet, all within a distinct savory envelope. On the palate, the Bordeaux varieties quickly provide structure, focus and length, with a lingering finish that invites a second glass.
Vineyards:
Occupying a mountainside at the head of the Napa Valley, Zinfandels were first planted here in 1883. It is a grape unusually well adapted to the red clay loam soils, eastern exposures and microclimate of our hillside estate. Yet there are hills and hollows on our land (the cooler exposure of a north facing hill for Cabernet, moister soils rich in clay for Merlot, etc.) that are every bit as appropriate for the Bordeaux varieties. The vines are hand tended, from pruning through picking. The crop is severely regulated, with two green harvests in May and August, to maintain just the right amount of grapes on each vine, averaging 2 to 2.5 tons per acre. No insecticides or herbicides have been used in all these years, and we are now CCOF certified organic growers.
Vintage:
- 2011
Appellation:
- Napa Valley, Estate
Alcohol:
- 13.9%
Varietals:
- 4% Zinfandel, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot
Harvest:
- September 29 – November 3
Cooperage:
- 16 months French and American Oak
Bottled:
- July 2013
Production:
- 490 cases