It has been well documented that 2017 was a pivotal year in Napa Valley as it was the first year of the climate-driven mega-fires. Some of the Merlot and Cabernet Franc on the Vandal Vineyard was picked before the fires started while any fruit, like the Cabernet Sauvignon, that was still on the vine after the fires began was abandoned. The total production from 2017 was dramatically reduced as a result of the fires. The good news is that the fruit that came in was gorgeous! Low yields combined with organic, regenerative farming allowed the fruit to achieve full physiological ripeness while harvesting at night helped maintain natural acidity. Each vineyard block was fermented separately with native yeast and aged in 30% new French oak for two years before being blended by taste to create this delicious cuvée.
