Matthiasson Cabernet Sauvignon Phoenix Vineyard 2021
We have 6 in stock (Inventory is live and accurate)
The Land
The Matthiasson Cabernet Sauvignon Phoenix Vineyard 2021 originates from the estate's own Phoenix Vineyard, a steep hillside vineyard planted in 1982 by the previous owners of the property. Located in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, this unique vineyard boasts ancient shale soils, a geological formation rarely found in the region, imparting a distinctive minerality to the wines. Cultivated organically, the vineyard reflects Matthiasson's commitment to sustainable farming practices, minimizing intervention and allowing the grapes to express the true character of the terroir. The challenging hillside terrain requires meticulous hand labor, from compost application to harvesting, showcasing the dedication to sustainable and artisanal viticulture that defines Matthiasson.
The Wine
This 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 9% Cabernet Franc, showcases the elegance and complexity of the Phoenix Vineyard. The 2021 vintage, a year of significant drought, yielded grapes of exceptional concentration and intensity. The wine was fermented with native yeasts and aged for 20 months in a combination of French oak barrels, including new barrels, seasoned barrels, demi-muids, and a large foudre, allowing for a nuanced expression of the terroir.
On the nose, the wine displays alluring aromas of black cherry, cassis, and blackberry, interwoven with notes of graphite, cedar, and subtle hints of dried herbs. On the palate, the wine is medium full-bodied with firm yet refined tannins and a vibrant acidity. Flavors of dark fruit are complemented by notes of mocha, tobacco, and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and persistent, leaving a lasting impression of fruit and spice.
The People
The story of Matthiasson began in 1994 when Steve, a passionate gardener and homebrewer, began working in sustainable agriculture. In 2002, he established Matthiasson Wines, realizing his dream of creating wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of Napa Valley.
Matthiasson Wines is a passion of its founders, Steve and Jill Matthiasson. Steve, a lifelong student of sustainable agriculture, brings his expertise in organic viticulture and deep understanding of terroir to the estate. Jill, a dedicated advocate for environmental sustainability, shares Steve's commitment to producing wines that are both delicious and environmentally responsible. Their shared vision, rooted in a deep respect for the land and a commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality, has established Matthiasson as one of Napa Valley's most respected and admired wineries. This commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the entire winemaking process, from organic vineyard practices to the use of minimal intervention techniques in the winery.
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Napa Valley, a narrow strip of land in Northern California, is one of the world's most renowned wine regions. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century, but its rise to international prominence began in the latter half of the 20th century, particularly after the famous 1976 "Judgment of Paris" tasting, where Napa wines triumphed over French counterparts. Geographically, the valley is roughly 30 miles long and a few miles wide, running north-south, bordered by the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Range to the east. The climate varies significantly from south to north: the southern end, near San Pablo Bay and including the Carneros region, is cooler, influenced by fog and breezes, while the northern end, near Calistoga, experiences much warmer temperatures. This gradient, along with the distinction between the fertile valley floor and the rugged mountain vineyards, contributes to a diversity of growing conditions, allowing for a wide range of grape varieties, though Cabernet Sauvignon reigns supreme.
California - Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon, originally hailing from Bordeaux, France, has triumphantly spread to become a cornerstone of vineyards worldwide, achieving particular renown in Napa Valley. This versatile grape variety adapts to a broad spectrum of climates, producing full-bodied wines that are rich in black cherry and blackcurrant flavors, with layered complexities of oak and spice. The grape's success in regions like Napa Valley is a testament to its global adaptability, where it benefits from the optimal blend of warm days and cool nights, coupled with diverse soil types, to express a unique balance of power and elegance that pays homage to its Bordeaux origins.
