2022 Caterwaul Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon

Aromas of fresh-crushed raspberry, dark plum, and black tea integrate with savory notes of sandalwood, cigar box, and a faint hint of dried Herbs de Provence. The palate is medium to full-bodied and expressive, featuring a core of dark cherry and blackcurrant. It displays chewy, well-integrated tannins and a bright structural lift that leads to a long, seamless finish marked by a distinct mineral tension and a refreshing fruit persistence.

The winemaking team utilizes 100% Cabernet Sauvignon fruit sourced from an old-vine vineyard. The grapes undergo a careful fermentation process designed to highlight the primary fruit characteristics while building a weighty, textured mouthfeel. The wine is aged for 18 to 20 months in French oak barrels, with a significant portion being new oak, to allow the flavors to harmonize and the tannins to soften. This approach results in a structured yet approachable wine that balances traditional Napa-style depth with the vibrant energy of Sonoma fruit.

The fruit is grown in the southeast corner of Sonoma County, situated just over the line from Napa County on the backside of Mount Saint Helena. The site is defined by its gravelly loam soils and a climate that benefits from both the heat of the northern valley and the cooling influences of the nearby mountain range. These specific conditions allow the old vines to produce fruit with remarkable concentration and complexity, offering a unique profile that bridges the gap between the power of Rutherford and the freshness typically associated with high-altitude Sonoma vineyards.