Description
VINEYARD DESCRIPTION
Named for the branding iron owned by the proprietor, the eight-and a- half acre Branding Iron Vineyard lies in western Oakville, close to the base of the Mayacamas Mountains. The vineyard is comprised of well-drained clay loam and the vines are vertically trellised to maximize sunlight and open the canopy. The area’s warm climate and sun exposure in both the morning and afternoon is perfect for slowly ripening the fruit, which often benefits from a long hang time.
HARVEST NOTES
The beginning of the 2022 growing season was exceptionally mild, with budbreak kicking off in March. By May, the vines began to demonstrate strong shoot growth and average crop yields ahead of veraison in mid- July. While we welcomed a few heat spikes during the summer months, our proactive approach to vineyard management allowed us to not be negatively impacted and we maintained great quality through heat mitigation preparation, including the use of shade cloths and misting systems, among others. Mild to moderate temps in August created optimal conditions allowing for bright and focused flavors.
SENSORY EVALUATION
The 2022 Branding Iron Cabernet Sauvignon offers bright, clear aromas of black cherry and blackberry, accented by notes of toasty spice and white pepper. On the palate, it presents a seamless integration of oak and tannin, with soft and silky tannins supporting flavors of mixed berries, spice, and earth. This vintage is elegant and balanced, featuring a rich backbone of oak and a lifted, spicy floral character, culminating in tremendous length and depth.
APPELLATION: Oakville, Napa Valley
VARIETAL: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
AGING: French oak barrels (55% new, 45% once-used)
RELEASE DATE: Fall 2024
HARVEST DATES: September 27 and October 4, 2022
SKIN CONTACT: 17 days
TIME: 18 months
FIRST VINTAGE: 2000
