Release of our 2nd Pritchard Hill Block I2B bottling!
The 2014 vintage marks only the 2nd bottling for us from the amazing Stagecoach Vineyards, Pritchard Hill Block I2B. This block lies just 2 miles south of iconic properties like Bryant Family and Colgin Cellars and a stone's throw from Ovid and Continuum. Pritchard Hill Block I2B is characterized by volcanic and well-drained soils at high elevation.
We harvested our Cabernet Sauvignon from Block I2B on September 15th 2014 while the fruit was optimally balanced between phenolic ripeness, flavor development and acidity. Once in the winery, the fruit was sorted, de-stemmed and cold-soaked before undergoing native yeast fermentation and long maceration in small stainless steel tanks. The wine was aged in 100% French oak barrels (75% new) for 20 months before bottling.
The rich garnet hues of our 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon foreshadow the ripe black fruit,
vanilla, mocha and baking spice aromas that greet the nose before unfolding into dark chocolate, sage, dried red fruit and a hint of forest floor.
On the palate, this medium bodied wine is mouthwatering and well-structured. Flavors of candied red apple, dried cranberry, red cherry, and an undertone of tobacco are highlighted by firm mountain tannin and exceptional acidity.
Enjoy this expressive collector’s item for years to come.
95 – Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Independent
Medium to deep garnet in color with a touch of brick, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon from Llamas Family Wines is a little subdued to start, slowly revealing notes of dusty soil, iron ore and cigar box, leading to a core of Morello cherries, cassis, thyme, and smoked meats. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is bright and cheery with impressive tension and nice ripe tannins framing the youthful black and red berry flavors, finishing with a minerally lift. Delicious!