A chewy chocolate edge highlights smoky, black currant and vanilla aromas. Moderate tannins, complexity and texture contribute to a well structured wine through a supple round finish.

This wine was produced from one hundred percent Monterey County grapes from our Estate Vineyard. The vineyard’s slightly warmer temperatures, cool nights and significant diurnal temperature variations result in grapes full of flavor with intense varietal character and good acid balance. The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested on September 17th at 24.8 brix and aged for 25 months in 60% new French Nevers oak barrels. A small blend of just over 7% of both Cabernet Franc and Merlot were added to final blend to add complexity. The wine was racked annually throughout the aging process to maintain consistency and quality.

Produced from grapes grown on the Chateau Julien "Estate Vineyard" in South Monterey County's Lockwood Valley. Located in a unique coastal valley on the western Santa Lucia Mountain Range, the vineyard sits at a 980 foot elevation and is a short 14 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The vineyard's slight elevation, diurnal temperature variations and ideal gravely, loam soil result in wines with intense varietal characteristics unique to Monterey County. With a slightly warmer climate, the Estate Vineyard continues to benefit from coastal influences and Monterey County's long growing season.