Winemaker Notes

The 2017 Carte Blanche The Mark, Napa Valley is our new Bordeaux blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot. Select vineyards and blocks were chosen and farmed specifically to attain a dense, rich wine framed by delicate fine-grained tannins. Beckstoffer’s Orchard Vineyard Merlot offers a plump & full mid-palate while providing ample nuance. Beckstoffer’s Missouri Hopper Cabernet Sauvignon in Oakville provides a full spectrum of rich and dark fruit, while the Sage Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Franc from Sage Ridge Canyon offers nuances of tobacco, plum, and roasted poblano. 2017 The Mark shows red and dark fruits that jump from the glass while it holds your attention with black cherry, violets, black licorice, asphalt, and crushed rock.  The palate is silky, pure and structured, holding up layers of cherry notes, blackberry, cassis, and fresh thyme all culminating in a mile-long finish. 150 cases produced.