91 Points, Wine Enthusiast
Plenty of room for many years of aging with its silky tannin structure.
Favorite pairings include rosemary and herb crusted lamb chops, beef skewers, and cherry glazed pork loin.
VINEYARD
Located in the foothills of Sonoma Valley, this storied estate hillside vineyard rubs shoulders with some of the finest terroirs in Sonoma County, such as Bismark, Rancho Salina, and is adjacent to the famous Monte Rosso Vineyard. The Caton Vineyard is defined by its sustainable farming and belief that healthier vineyards produce unique and distinctive wines. The vineyards have multiple sun exposures, soil types, and vary in altitude over 300 feet between each other. Their meticulous farming practices showcase the love for the land and a passion for the wines that come from it. 3.13 acres of Clone 3 Merlot were planted with East-West row direction leading into a ravine. The deep, rocky volcanic soil on the vineyard is rich with iron clay - an ideal atmosphere for producing the highest quality crop with slow even ripening.
VINTAGE
The 2021 harvest is reported to be one of the best vintages in recent harvests for Northern California. The ongoing draught presented some challenges - limited rainfall and warm growing conditions throughout the summer months resulted in a speedy harvest with lighter yields. The conditions brought smaller berries with exceptional- quality and concentrated flavors.
Winemaker: Ty Caton
Appellation: Moon Mountain District, Sonoma Valley
Vineyard: Estate Grown, Caton Vineyard
Varietals: 100% Merlot
Cooperage: 18 Months, 50% new French Oak
Farming Practices: Certified Sustainable
Alcohol: 14.3%
92 Points
Aromas of blackberry, dried fig, black cherry, blackberry coulis, toasted vanilla, and a hint of cigar box. The palate offers rich and velvety tannins, dark chocolate-covered cherries, black plum, mixed berry pie and toasted walnut. Long and expressive with loads of flavor.
New Release
A ferociously fun Napa Valley blend with depth, balance and big flavor. Aromas of red currant, fresh strawberries, black plum, vanilla, and notes of cocoa on the nose. The palate is bursting with fruit ranging from cherries, mixed berry compote, toasted hazelnut and more. This wine has great texture that ultimately finishes with round, silky smooth tannins.
91 Points
Layers of strawberry, baked cherry pie, anise, cherry lollipop, wild game, and spicebox. On the palate, black cherry jam couples with crème de cassis, mixed berry crisp, rhubarb, and a touch of vanilla.