2011 - Solo Cabernet Sauvignon - Foley Food and Wine Society

2011 – Solo Cabernet Sauvignon

In 1968, Harry See planted the Silverado Vineyard to Cabernet Sauvignon. Over the next two decades with careful vine selection and cultivation, the Silverado Clone emerged becoming the only Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon designated as a “Heritage Clone”, by the University of California, Davis. Each year, we honor this select clone designation with SOLO.

Recommended Cheese Pairings: Comte, Truffle Cheddar or Aged Cheddar

APPELLATION: Stags Leap District, Napa Valley

VARIETAL: Cabernet Sauvignon

COOPERAGE: 18 months barrel age
42% new French oak. Overall oak profile: 100% French

Vintage Notes

What began with a wet winter and spring continued with rainfall into mid-June that delayed bloom and disrupted fruit set resulting in shatter in parts of the region set the stage for a long, cooler-than-average growing season. This timetable continued through the somewhat cool summer season. Few high heat events occurred at any point this year, vine canopies were opened up to ensure sunlight, warmth and good air circulation around the grape clusters. The shatter resulting from the rain events in June was variable by vineyard location hitting some locations harder. We had a later-than-average harvest beset with early October rain storm.

Tasting Notes

The nose is accented with aromas of anise, earth and violet notes. Flavors of fresh, crushed red raspberry and dried cherry, with hints of white pepper and earth. Pleasing acid refreshes the mid-palate in advance of a long finish marked with the essence of mineral, gravel and flint.