Region: Napa Valley, California

Varietal: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot

Tasting notes: The Ink Grade Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a nose of fresh cassis, pomegranate, and cocoa with elements of thyme, mint, candied orange peels, nutmeg, cloves, and paprika. The palate is linear throughout with a consistent midpalate of bright and lifted acidity and well-integrated raw mountain tannins that close in a persistent finish.

Producer: The unique story of Ink Grade Vineyard begins in 1873, when vines were planted for the first time by visionary pioneers who believed in the incredible potential of the land. Theron Ink was one of them. In 1875, along the eastern stretches of Howell Mountain, high above the Napa Valley at 1,500 feet, Theron established a remote place of respite among the idyllic seclusion of the forested Sequoia and pines. His ranch became a retreat for his family - an oasis far from the hustle and bustle of pre-Prohibition Napa. Likewise, it was a treasure trove of distinguished land where the terroir truly spoke to him, and the rewards were ever so satisfying. Rich and layered in volcanic soil, the vines were destined to produce intense fruit, creating expressive and dynamic concentration in the finished wines.

Vineyard and Winemaking: Nearly 150 years later, the land remains lush with diversified foliage and far-reaching wildness. And in the hands of a new steward, DeMeine Estates (Stony Hill, Heitz, Racines - to name a few jewels in their crown) lies a commitment to preserving the heritage of the land and a dedicated approach to classical winemaking. Marked by the words of winemaker Matt Taylor (Araujo Estate; Domaine Dujac): "Ink Grade is about relying on natural, historic techniques to farm elegant and balanced wines and show the purity of mountain fruit. I am thrilled to work with this truly unique vineyard and create biodynamic wines that honor this place and its history."