Winemaker Notes

This 14th vintage of Artefact has turned out superbly well, as the vines at Kenefick Ranch in Block 7 clearly enjoyed the long, cool season of 2018. This is the kind of vintage where rocky, well-drained soils do what they are famous for and lift the wine with added dimension and minerality. Look for aromas of red currant, dark cherry, black plum, river stones, spicebox and bourbon vanilla. There is immense power and length on the palate while maintaining great energy and dynamic, vivid flavors of dark fruits. The tannins are ultra-smooth and refined which give an air of supreme elegance to the long, extended finish.

Critical Acclaim

95 Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Artefact is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon coming from Calistoga. Deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts from the glass with pronounced notes of crème de cassis, plum preserves, wild blueberries and boysenberries with underlying suggestions of cedar chest, menthol, fallen leaves and dusty soil. The palate possesses bags of energy, offering a medium to full-body with layers of bright, bold black fruits and a firm, grainy texture, finishing long and mineral laced.