Vineyard 29

The Wine

It is difficult to think of a finer vintage of the ’29 Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon than the 2021. No blenders were used this vintage and this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine opens with an explosive aromatic profile of violets, black cassis, currants and blueberries. On the palate, juicy boysenberries and plums complement a structure of richness and concentration while firm tannin support an ideal acid structure and promise ageability. From the beginning to the end, this Cabernet is polished, round and supple. The purest expression of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that we’ve produced to date. This wine should age indefinitely for several decades.

The Vintage

The 2021 growing season began a week or two later than the 2020 season due to a colder than average February and March. A few spring showers helped the vines but the overall dry winter led to slow shoot growth and smaller than average shoots in most cases around the valley. Thankfully, those who started their irrigation program early, April in the case of Vineyard 29 and Aida Estate, were able to convince the shoots to grow to adequate length so that each shoot could ripen its clusters evenly and optimally. Early season frosts were common in the coldest parts of the valley, thus decreasing overall yields come harvest time. The summer growing season was exceptionally good. The consistent weather, beautiful skies and ideal ripening conditions aided in a slow and steady sugar accumulation period alongside excellent tannin development. Harvest was smooth and steady and while yields were lower than average, the grapes were concentrated and flavorful and the resulting wines are stunning. A truly exceptional vintage.

The Vineyard

Our 29 Estate Vineyard sits on a hillside just at the “pinch” of Napa Valley’s hourglass shape. Excellent airflow provides natural frost protection, while the fertile clay loam soils encourage deeply rooted vines, yielding powerfully concentrated cabernet sauvignon tempered by markedly floral, velvet elegance and explosive aromatic.

Harvest Date(s)
September 15 – September 22, 2021

Barrel Age
20 months, 83% new, 100% French oak

Cooperage
Taransaud, Ermitage, Baron, Cadus, Saury

Composition
100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Bottling Date(s)
June 7, 2023

Cases Produced
487

Release Date
October 1, 2024

The Wine

The aromatic bouquet on this alluring white wine can only be described as gorgeous. The nose is dominated by full bloom white florals alongside a fragrant display of white peach, white nectarine, orange blossom, honeysuckle, and a hint of Meyer lemon.On the palate, the wine reveals its unique character, showcasing a slight crème brûlée-like texture that is both indulgent and intriguing. Delightful oily in viscosity, this wine presents a luxurious mouthfeel that is rich and unctuous while still always maintaining its freshness and verve. High acid and low pH provide piercing acidity, focus and polish. Expect a finish with the longevity and persistence to rival that of a fine cabernet.

The Vintage

The 2022 growing season began in early March following a few wet winter months, which set the stage for an excellent bud-break. Timing was in-line with the five-year average, and warmer temperatures during the last week of February helped to push smooth development across the valley. Bud-break continued with pleasant weather, and February and March were significantly warmer than in 2021. April was a bit cooler than average and some vineyards had to be protected from potential frost damage, but things warmed up in May providing adequate conditions for bloom and eventually, fruit set. The summer months of the growing season were remarkably consistent. Warm days and cool nights. A perfect diurnal weather pattern for flavor development along with bright acidity. During Labor Day weekend, an unprecedented period of triple digit highs shocked the valley—nine days straight of triple digits and some weather stations even recording temperatures above 120°F! Growers continued to pick at lightning speed due to the extreme heat from the Labor Day weekend. Several vineyards were harvested during or soon after the heat wave while others held strong into the first two weeks of October, when the last of the fruit made its way to the winery. The majority of the late ripening fruit came from the Rutherford and Oakville areas.

The Vineyard

Our 29 Estate Vineyard sits on a hillside just at the “pinch” of Napa Valley’s hourglass shape. Excellent airflow provides natural frost protection, while the fertile clay loam soils encourage deeply rooted vines. The small Sauvignon Blanc block is just next to the winery, where a hillside tree line provides cool afternoon shade, giving this wine its signature richness and complexity.

Harvest Date(s)
August 22 – 31, 2022

Barrel Age
20 months, 100% new French oak

Cooperage
Saury Immersion, Ermitage BTL

Composition
100% Sauvignon Blanc

Bottling Date(s)
June 20, 2024

Cases Produced
113

Release Date
October 1, 2024

The Wine

Layered and complex, the 2021 Estate Cabernet Franc opens with a brooding perfume of fresh tobacco leaf and forest floor, notes that are quickly complemented by crushed pebbles, and dried floral notes of potpourri and lavender. On the palate, the beautiful integrity of the fruit is expressed though notes of tart Bing cherry, blackberries and rope black plums. Textually, slightly dusty, silty tannins provide a tactile sensation reminiscent of fine grains of cocoa powder and balance the mid-palate with a slight creamy texture. Rich and full bodied, this wine is structured with power and a distinct personality true to the steep, rugged, rocky hillside that these vines are rooted.

The Vintage

The 2021 growing season began a week or two later than the 2020 season due to a colder than average February and March. A few spring showers helped the vines but the overall dry winter led to slow shoot growth and smaller than average shoots in most cases around the valley. Thankfully, those who started their irrigation program early, April in the case of Vineyard 29 and Aida Estate, were able to convince the shoots to grow to adequate length so that each shoot could ripen its clusters evenly and optimally. Early season frosts were common in the coldest parts of the valley, thus decreasing overall yields come harvest time. The summer growing season was exceptionally good. The consistent weather, beautiful skies and ideal ripening conditions aided in a slow and steady sugar accumulation period alongside excellent tannin development. Harvest was smooth and steady and while yields were lower than average, the grapes were concentrated and flavorful and the resulting wines are stunning. A truly exceptional vintage.

The Vineyard

The 29 Estate Vineyard sits on a hillside just at the “pinch” of Napa Valley’s hourglass shape. Planted in 2000, our small cabernet franc block lies on a northwest-facing slope at the southern edge of the 29 Estate—providing the gorgeous vineyard view from the winery’s terrace. A tree line provides afternoon shade in this stressed, rocky block that has incredible drainage, producing deeply concentrated fruit at harvest time.

Harvest Date(s)
September 21, 2021

Barrel Age
20 months, 70% new, 100% French oak

Cooperage
Artisan, Taransaud, Ermitage, Orion

Composition
93% Cabernet Franc, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon

Bottling Date(s)
June 6, 2023

Cases Produced
207

Release Date
October 1, 2024

The Wine

Rich and regal in hue, the 2021 Aida Estate Cabernet opens with the opulence of rich red plums and alluring black currants. Delving deeper, notes of scorched earth evokes a sense of its vineyard source and fresh pencil shavings adds subtle nuances. Red and black fruits dominate on the palate with commanding authority and boast unparalleled intensity and concentration that resonate long after the last sip is taken. This wine promises to age with elegance and polish over the next 20+ years.

The Vintage

From the very first days of harvest, we knew the 2021 vintage was a stellar one. The 2021 growing season began a week or two later than typical due to a colder than average February and March. A few spring showers helped the vines along and the summer growing season was exceptionally good. The consistent weather, beautiful skies and ideal ripening conditions aided in a slow and steady sugar accumulation period alongside excellent tannin development. Harvest was smooth and steady and while yields were lower than average, the grapes were concentrated and flavorful. Evocative of the 2016 and 2013 vintages but with exceptional qualities of this vintage, the 2021 Aida Estate wines are delicious upon release while still being supremely cellar worthy.

The Vineyard

Our Aida Estate Vineyard has confirmed our initial belief that this site would be the ideal location for growing Bordeaux varietals. Just north of the pinch in the hourglass of the Napa Valley, the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from our Aida Estate provide the bold, structured backbone for this immensely enjoyable wine.

Harvest Date(s)
September 6, 2021 — September 9, 2021

Barrel Age
20 months, 65% new French oak

Cooperage
Baron, Cadus, Ermitage, Saury, Taransaud

Blend
99% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot; 100% Aida Estate vineyard

Bottling Date(s)
June 12, 2023

Cases Produced
485

Release Date
Winter 2024

Retail Price
$315 ~750ml

The Wine

Lively and expressive, the 2021 Aida Estate Zinfandel presents itself as a beautiful jewel in the glass. On the nose, aromatic brambly blackberry, cedar and fresh tobacco leaf are adorned by exotic fragrances of sandalwood, cardamom and ethereal white flowers. Mexican cocoa and blueberry cobbler fill out every inch of the palate which takes on a creamy, almost yogurt-like texture. Offering the best of both worlds, this wine is vibrant and youthful upon release while still being structured for ageablity.

The Vintage

From the very first days of harvest, we knew the 2021 vintage was a stellar one. The 2021 growing season began a week or two later than typical due to a colder than average February and March. A few spring showers helped the vines along and the summer growing season was exceptionally good. The consistent weather, beautiful skies and ideal ripening conditions aided in a slow and steady sugar accumulation period alongside excellent tannin development. Harvest was smooth and steady and while yields were lower than average, the grapes were concentrated and flavorful. Evocative of the 2016 and 2013 vintages but with exceptional qualities of this vintage, the 2021 Aida Estate wines are delicious upon release while still being supremely cellar worthy.

The Vineyard

Our Aida Estate Vineyard has confirmed our initial belief that this site would be the ideal location for growing Bordeaux varietals as well as Zinfandel. Just north of the pinch in the hourglass of the Napa Valley, the Zinfandel grapes from our Aida Estate provide the bold, structured backbone for this immensely enjoyable wine.

Harvest Date(s)
September 3, 2021

Barrel Age
20 months, 100% new French Oak Puncheons

Cooperage
Ermitage and Saury

Blend
85% 48 year old dry farmed Zinfandel vines; 15% Petite Sirah; 100% Aida Estate vineyard

Bottling Date(s)
June 7, 2023

Cases Produced
295

Release Date
Winter 2024

Retail Price
$125 ~750ml

The Wine

The 2021 Aida Estate Merlot opens as an exotic garden with scents of violets, orchids and earthy crushed rocks. Gentle swirling gives way to secondary notes of well-aged cigar box and pencil shavings and sets the stage for a dynamic palate. Ripe Bing cherry, black raspberry and black plum dominate and fill out the palate while anise, refined chocolate and spice add depth and complexity to this firm and well structured wine. A long, drawn-out finish echoes the intensity of a Petrus and hints at this wine’s impressive aging potential.

The Vintage

From the very first days of harvest, we knew the 2021 vintage was a stellar one. The 2021 growing season began a week or two later than typical due to a colder than average February and March. A few spring showers helped the vines along and the summer growing season was exceptionally good. The consistent weather, beautiful skies and ideal ripening conditions aided in a slow and steady sugar accumulation period alongside excellent tannin development. Harvest was smooth and steady and while yields were lower than average, the grapes were concentrated and flavorful. Evocative of the 2016 and 2013 vintages but with exceptional qualities of this vintage, the 2021 Aida Estate wines are delicious upon release while still being supremely cellar worthy.

The Vineyard

Our Aida Estate Vineyard has confirmed our initial belief that this site would be the ideal location for growing Bordeaux varietals. Just north of the pinch in the hourglass of the Napa Valley, the Merlot grapes from our Aida Estate provide a rich and supple, yet muscled backbone for this immensely enjoyable wine.

Harvest Date(s)
September 3, 2021

Barrel Age
20 months, 65% New French Oak

Cooperage
Nadalie, Orion, Saury, Taransaud

Blend
97% Merlot; 3% Cabernet Sauvignon

Bottling Date(s)
June 8, 2023

Cases Produced
216

Release Date
Winter 2024

Retail Price
$165 ~750ml

The Wine

Rich and aromatic, aromas of chocolate-covered raspberry, German chocolate cake, vanilla and luscious spiced rum dominate the nose, while the lively, clean palate offers hints of ripe fig and a touch of spearmint. This dessert wine pairs perfectly with the fruit component of your cheese platter or try with Roquefort stuffed figs wrapped in prosciutto and drizzled with aged balsamic. Save the last sip to savor with a bite of dark chocolate. Enjoy this complex and utterly delicious Late Harvest Zinfandel upon release, or cellar into 2027 and beyond.

The Vintage

We use a modified solera-style program marrying wine lots from 2002–2017, the decadent depth of older vintages perfectly balancing the youthful freshness of the newer wines. The result is a dessert wine of luxurious depth and complexity.

The Vineyard

Produced in tiny quantities, this Late Harvest release is crafted from two heritage blocks of zinfandel planted in 1973 on the gently undulating slopes of our Aida Estate just two miles north of the winery. Stretching from Highway 29 to the Napa River, the soils are rich and rocky from ancient river deposits—similar to France’s southern Rhône Valley—forcing the roots to search deeply for water and yielding small, concentrated grapes that produce wines with beautifully ripe flavors and firm tannin structure.

Harvest Date(s)
Multi-Vintage

Barrel Age
Modified Solera blending

Cooperage
Saury, Demptos | French Oak

Composition
100% Zinfandel

Bottling Date(s)
August 24, 2022

Cases Produced
25

Release Date
October 1, 2022

Release Price
$95 ~375ml

The Wine

Radiant and bold, the 2021 Vineyard 29 CEANDA Cabernet Sauvignon pours into the glass with captivating intensity and a deep garnet hue. On the nose, delicate violet tendrils, finely sifted cocoa powder and layers of ripe red, blue, and black fruits are framed by subtle leather, tobacco and incense notes. The palate offers the best of both estates, power from Aida and graceful finesse from the 29 Estate. Dense and rich, yet effortlessly balanced, this wine quickly coats the palate with velvety texture, verve and freshness. Firm structured tannins impart a sense of strength to the wine’s full-bodied profile while the finish will linger endlessly on the palate.

The Vintage

The 2021 growing season began a week or two later than the 2020 season due to a colder than average February and March. A few spring showers helped the vines but the overall dry winter led to slow shoot growth and smaller than average shoots in most cases around the valley. ]thankfully, those who started their irrigation program early, April in the case of Vineyard 29 and Aida Estate, were able to convince the shoots to grow to adequate length so that each shoot could ripen its clusters evenly and optimally. Early season frosts were common in the coldest parts of the valley, thus decreasing overall yields come harvest time. The summer growing season was exceptionally good. The consistent weather, beautiful skies and ideal ripening conditions aided in a slow and steady sugar accumulation period alongside excellent tannin development. Harvest was smooth and steady and while yields were lower than average, the grapes were concentrated and flavorful and the resulting wines are stunning. A truly exceptional vintage.

The Vineyard

The CEANDA Cabernet Sauvignon is a symbolic representation of the passion and dedication that Chuck and Anne McMinn have bestowed upon their prized vineyards. Both a blend of their vineyards, as well as their names, CEANDA stands tall as a beautiful new addition to the Vineyard 29 family.

Harvest Date(s)
September 7–22, 2021

Barrel Age
20 months, 60% new, 40% once-used thin stave, tight grain, 22mm French oak barrels

Cooperage
Taransaud, Ermitage, Baron, Artisan

Composition
93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc

Bottling Date(s)
June 13, 2023

Cases Produced
518

Release Date
Spring 2024

Release Price
$165 ~750ml

The Wine

The 2022 CRU Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a surprisingly youthful and fresh, yet full-bodied and concentrated wine from what was considered a warmer vintage in Napa Valley. Brambly blackberry, ripe blueberry and violet aromas are complemented by hints of mocha and roasted coffee bean provided by beautifully integrated fine grain, thin stave, French oak barrels. Juicy upon entry, rich and round throughout, this wine boasts an ideal acid structure and firm tannin profile. CRU is consistently crafted to be enjoyed upon release but this fine Napa Valley Cabernet will age gracefully for well over a decade.

The Vintage

The 2022 growing season began in early March following a few wet winter months, which set the stage for an excellent bud-break. Timing was in-line with the five-year average, and warmer temperatures during the last week of February helped to push smooth development across the valley. Bud-break continued with pleasant weather, and February and March were significantly warmer than in 2021. April was a bit cooler than average and some vineyards had to be protected from potential frost damage, but things warmed up in May providing adequate conditions for bloom and eventually, fruit set. The summer months of the growing season were remarkably consistent. Warm days and cool nights. A perfect diurnal weather pattern for flavor development along with bright acidity. During Labor Day weekend, an unprecedented period of triple digit highs shocked the valley—nine days straight of triple digits and some weather stations even recording temperatures above 120°F! Growers continued to pick at lightning speed due to the extreme heat from the Labor Day weekend. Several vineyards were harvested during or soon after the heat wave while others held strong into the first two weeks of October, when the last of the fruit made its way to the winery. The majority of the late ripening fruit came from the Rutherford and Oakville areas.

The Vineyard

Our CRU Cabernet is deeply rooted in the vineyards of St. Helena that surround our estate, with about 60% of the fruit coming from neighboring growers. Each year, we hand-select the balance of the blend from different parts of the valley to layer together a delicious, well-rounded and beautifully balanced wine that expresses the nuance and character of the Napa Valley. Fourteen vineyards play a role in the CRU bottling, including valley floor and mountain Cabernet and Malbec, valley floor Petit Verdot and Merlot, and bench land Cabernet Franc blocks, which all contribute to the juicy approachability and great structure of CRU Cabernet.

Harvest Date(s)
September 3 – October 5, 2022

Barrel Age
18 months in 50% new Oak, 100% French Oak

Cooperage
Taransaud, Quintessence, Demptos, Saury, Ermitage, Baron, Boutes, Cadus

Blend
90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petite Verdot, 3% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot

Bottling Date(s)
April 22, 2024

Cases Produced
5,264

Release Date
October 1, 2024

The Wine

Aromas of juicy plum and fresh blueberry cobbler frame this opulent and vibrant wine and help to weave a palate of milk chocolate, tobacco leaf and graphite. Structure is built by beautiful French oak that lends notes of sandalwood, Tahitian vanilla and subtle baking spices. Full bodied with firm tannins but also a softness makes this wine easy and pleasurable to drink. The CRU Oakville Cabernet is a true standalone in the Vineyard 29 portfolio. Where the St. Helena based Cabernets are primarily black and red fruit-driven, the CRU Oakville leans towards the blue and purple fruits. This wine is enjoyable upon release and will age gracefully for 15+ years.

The Vintage

The 2021 growing season began a week or two later than the 2020 season due to a colder than average February and March. A few spring showers helped the vines but the overall dry winter led to slow shoot growth and smaller than average shoots in most cases around the valley. Thankfully, those who started their irrigation program early, April in the case of Vineyard 29 and Aida Estate, were able to convince the shoots to grow to adequate length so that each shoot could ripen its clusters evenly and optimally. Early season frosts were common in the coldest parts of the valley, thus decreasing overall yields come harvest time. The summer growing season was exceptionally good. The consistent weather, beautiful skies and ideal ripening conditions aided in a slow and steady sugar accumulation period alongside excellent tannin development. Harvest was smooth and steady and while yields were lower than average, the grapes were concentrated and flavorful and the resulting wines are stunning. A truly exceptional vintage.

The Vineyard

Our CRU Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville is sourced from two Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in Oakville, Rancho Pequeno and Ashe Vineyards, along with a small amount of Cabernet Franc from St. Helena and Malbec from Mt. Veeder, which we layer together for a delicious, well-rounded and beautifully balanced wine that expresses the nuance and character of their respective sites. All the vineyards play a role in this uniquely focused CRU bottling, contributing to the juicy approachability and great structure that our CRU Cabernet Sauvignons are known for.

Harvest Date(s)
October 4 – October 6, 2021

Barrel Age
18 months in 55% new Oak, 100% French Oak

Cooperage
Taransaud, Saury, Cadus, Artisan

Blend
95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot

Bottling Date(s)
May 16, 2023

Cases Produced
175

Release Date
October 1, 2023

Release Price
$125 ~750ml

The Wine

Rich and massive upon entry, the 2021 CRU Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Helena is black fruit driven throughout. These dark notes intermingle with secondary flavors of toasted brioche, juicy plums and fresh pencil shavings. Full bodied and powerful this wine is structured by firm, grippy tannins and a tight acid structure. This wine rivals other Cabernets at three times its price point in terms of concentration, weight and richness. Powerful and intense in its youth, this gem will continue to develop for decades to come.

The Vintage

The 2021 growing season began a week or two later than the 2020 season due to a colder than average February and March. A few spring showers helped the vines but the overall dry winter led to slow shoot growth and smaller than average shoots in most cases around the valley. Thankfully, those who started their irrigation program early, April in the case of Vineyard 29 and Aida Estate, were able to convince the shoots to grow to adequate length so that each shoot could ripen its clusters evenly and optimally. Early season frosts were common in the coldest parts of the valley, thus decreasing overall yields come harvest time. The summer growing season was exceptionally good. The consistent weather, beautiful skies and ideal ripening conditions aided in a slow and steady sugar accumulation period alongside excellent tannin development. Harvest was smooth and steady and while yields were lower than average, the grapes were concentrated and flavorful and the resulting wines are stunning. A truly exceptional vintage.

The Vineyard

Our CRU Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Helena is primarily sourced from our Railroad Estate Vineyard in St. Helena along with blending components from other St. Helena vineyards as well as a small amount of Malbec from Mt. Veeder, which we layer together for a delicious, well-rounded and beautifully balanced wine that expresses the nuance and character of their respective sites. All the vineyards play a role in this uniquely focused CRU bottling, contributing to the juicy approachability and great structure that our CRU Cabernet Sauvignons are known for.

Harvest Date(s)
September 7 – 14, 2021

Barrel Age
18 months in 60% new Oak, 100% French Oak

Cooperage
Taransaud, Saury, Baron, Ermitage

Blend
94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec, 2% Merlot, 1% Petite Verdot

Bottling Date(s)
May 16, 2023

Cases Produced
445

Release Date
October 1, 2023

Release Price
$125 ~750ml

The Wine

Wonderfully lively and expressive out of the gate, the 2022 CRU Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc opens with a tropical bouquet of guava and ripe stone fruits, most notably white peach. Upon the palate, its weight and texture are reminiscent of creamy vanilla yogurt but with a piecing acidity that balances the weight with vibrancy and freshness. Kumquats, pineapple and orange blossoms join the palate and delight the senses until the very last sip.

The Vintage

The 2022 growing season began in early March following a few wet winter months, which set the stage for an excellent bud-break. Timing was in-line with the five-year average, and warmer temperatures during the last week of February helped to push smooth development across the valley. Bud-break continued with pleasant weather, and February and March were significantly warmer than in 2021. April was a bit cooler than average and some vineyards had to be protected from potential frost damage, but things warmed up in May providing adequate conditions for bloom and eventually, fruit set. The summer months of the growing season were remarkably consistent. Warm days and cool nights. A perfect diurnal weather pattern for flavor development along with bright acidity. During Labor Day weekend, an unprecedented period of triple digit highs shocked the valley—nine days straight of triple digits and some weather stations even recording temperatures above 120°F! Growers continued to pick at lightning speed due to the extreme heat from the Labor Day weekend. Several vineyards were harvested during or soon after the heat wave while others held strong into the first two weeks of October, when the last of the fruit made its way to the winery. The majority of the late ripening fruit came from the Rutherford and Oakville areas.

The Vineyard

“Wine is made in the vineyard” serves as the philosophy for Keith Emerson, Director of Winemaking at Vineyard 29, and is the guiding principle behind our CRU wines. From site selection to crop yield to harvest planning, each farming decision is made with the final blend in mind. Keith’s deliberate and detail-oriented winemaking results in elegantly composed wines that depict the best of Napa Valley.

Harvest Date(s)
August 23–September 4, 2022

Barrel Age
11 months

Cooperage
30% new French: Saury Immersion, Ermitage Steam Bent, Orion Neptune, Quintessance Opaline

Bottling Date(s)
August 30, 2023

Alcohol
14.2%

Cases Produced
252

Release Date
April 1, 2024

Release Price
$45 ~750ml

The Wine

The 2018 CRU Pinot Noir has a gorgeous bouquet of gingerbread, Chinese five spice, earthy forest floor with cedar and sandalwood-like incense. The wine enters with great energy, juicy red and black fruits with hints of toffee, dried rose petal and orange pekoe tea. Silky yet mouth coating with fine, elegant ripe tannins and a lingering finish. This wine will drink fantastic upon release and will continue to evolve over the next 3-8 years in bottle.

The Vintage

The 2018 growing season in the northwest Willamette Valley was ideal for high quality Pinot Noir. The summer was hotter than average but timely rains and cooler temperature in the early fall led to lovely fruit quality, uniform ripeness and developed tannin profiles in the grapes. The overall yields were above average in 2018, as were color profile and acidity in the finished Pinot Noir wines. The CRU Pinot Noir was harvested from two vineyards in the Yamhill-Carlton (Shea Vineyard and Domaine Danielle Laurent), as well as one vineyard in the cooler, later ripening McMinnville Hills, Hyland Estate. The Yamhill-Carlton region experienced slightly warmer days than the McMinnville Hills and those particular CRU Pinot Noir blocks were harvested a couple of weeks apart.

The Vineyard

Fulfilling his mantra of “Winemaking begins in the vineyard”, in 2010 Keith Emerson began pursuing opportunities to work with growers in one of the premier pinot noir locations in the country – Oregon’s Willamette Valley.

Harvest Date(s)
September 28 — October 3, 2018

Barrel Age
10 months in 50% New Oak, 100% French Oak

Cooperage
Tonnellerie Remond, Tonnellerie O, Cadus, Saury

Bottling Date(s)
August 14, 2019

Cases Produced
562

Release Date
Spring 2020

Retail Price
$45 ~ 750ml

The Wine

Juicy blackberry and currants, fresh tobacco and dried lavender aromas. Full bodied and concentrated with black fruits, chocolate covered espresso bean, hints of pencil shavings, a velvety texture and structured tannin profile, this incredibly balanced and polished limited production CRU Napa Valley Merlot is thoroughly enjoyable upon release and will age beautifully for the next decade.

The Vintage

The 2018 growing season began with a mild, beautiful Spring which extended flowering and provided ideal conditions for berry set, thus yielding uniform grape clusters. Temperatures were warm and steady throughout the summer, with very few heat spikes or dry wind patterns which were quite impactful during the 2017 growing season. The 2018 harvest began approximately two weeks later than the previous few vintages and it continued until the end of October. There was a minor rain event on October 2nd and 3rd but it did not negatively impact grape quality. It simply provided a break in the harvest as we allowed for a few dry out days before resuming the harvest. This long, drawn out, bountiful harvest yielded beautiful, dense, concentrated wines with intense color and a unique freshness to them.

The Vineyard

“Wine is made in the vineyard” serves as the philosophy for Keith Emerson, Director of Winemaking at Vineyard 29, and is the guiding principle behind our CRU wines. From site selection to crop yield to harvest planning, each farming decision is made with the final blend in mind. Keith’s deliberate and detail-oriented winemaking results in elegantly composed wines that depict the best of Napa Valley.

Harvest Date(s)
September 4 — October 5, 2018

Barrel Age
18 months in 60% new Oak, 100% French Oak

Cooperage
Saury, Ermitage, Nadalie

Blend
85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec

Bottling Date(s)
May 14, 2020

Cases Produced
120

Release Date
Summer 2021

Retail Price
$55 ~ 750ml

The Wine

The beauty of the 2023 CRU Napa Valley Rose happens before the first sip is even taken, marveling at the beautiful salmon-tinged pink color as it festively fills the glass. Upon first taste, both nose and palate burst onto the scene with playful energy of sun-ripened strawberries and tangy kiwi. Succulent raspberries join the festivities adding a layer of sunshine and joy. Lean and crisp in texture with a refreshing acidity that will keep the party going long after the last sip is taken.

The Vintage

Napa Valley saw approximately 40” of rainfall over the winter of 2022/2023. The 2023 grape growing season began two weeks later than the five year average as a result of the cooler and wetter than average winter and early spring. The vines had an ample amount of water without being over satured, shoot growth was steady, flowering and fruit set were also two weeks later than usual, and veraison did not take place in most vineyards until mid-August. Growers and winemakers, at that time, knew that they were in for a long, late harvest. Patience was the name of the game for the 2023 vintage. Early ripening varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc were mostly picked in early to mid-September (as opposed to late August) and the Cabernet harvest lasted until November 10th, a record for Vineyard 29! Mother Nature was extremely generous in 2023 as the weather stayed moderate and the sun kept shining, thus allowing the vines to slowly ripen their clusters. The yields were bountiful and the wines are extremely dark in color (reds), full of aromatics, opulent, rich and juicy. There is amazing acid structure and fully developed tannins across the board for the red varietals. The whites are fresh and delicious as well. The 2023 vintage will go down as one of the greatest, most unique vintages in quite some time.

The Vineyard

“Wine is made in the vineyard” serves as the philosophy for Keith Emerson, Director of Winemaking at Vineyard 29, and is the guiding principle behind our CRU wines. From site selection to crop yield to harvest planning, each farming decision is made with the final blend in mind. Keith’s deliberate and detail-oriented winemaking results in elegantly composed wines that depict the best of Napa Valley.

Harvest Date(s)
September 14–25, 2023

Barrel Age
4 months

Cooperage
100% used French: Saury Immersion, Ermitage Steam Bent, Orion Neptune, Quintessance Opaline

Bottling Date(s)
February 26, 2024

Alcohol
13.5%

Release Date
April 1, 2024

Cases Produced
199

Notes

Traditional medium body oil of Frantoio, Leccino and Maurino olives. Ripe fruit flavors, some pungent characteristics with soft, buttery, nutty notes and a light peppery finish.

Ingredients
Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Country of Origin
USA, Tracy CA

Press Date
November 15,2022

Acidity
0.19%

Intensity
Medium

Release Price
$45

Produced by Scarlata Farms, Napa CA