Matthiasson, Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

The fruit was fermented in small open-top tanks and either punched down or pumped over twice per day, depending on flavor; we don’t strive for a high rate of extraction, instead choosing to preserve the freshness and high-toned aromatics. Since the fermentation temperatures were cool, the fermentations were long and slow, mostly lasting around three weeks. The wine was pressed at dryness, blended immediately, and aged for 20 months in a combination of mostly used and a few new barrels (<20% new French oak).

The Napa-based husband and wife team of Steve and Jill Klein Matthiasson met twenty years ago through their shared work in sustainable agriculture, a partnership that has resulted in some of the most fascinating, fresh, and diverse wines made in California today. Steve's career evolved behind the scenes as a vineyard consultant for high profile Napa wineries like Stag's Leap, Spottswoode, and Araujo. Jon Bonne, wine editor for the San Francisco Chronicle and vocal champion of Matthiasson's wines, notes that 'when a vintner wants more flavor at lower sugar levels, Matthiasson is the one on speed dial. And he has achieved that while evangelizing for a reversal of the past two decades' trend toward overly ripe flavors and high alcohols.' The Matthiassons' vivid renditions of ubiquitous varieties like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon provide an appealing introduction to their poised and textured house style. Their impeccably farmed organic vineyards, luscious, complicated White Wine, and pure, focused Refosco (that Steve grafted over 3 rows of Merlot in their home vineyard following a eye-opening trip to Friuli) exemplify the high standards and spirit of adventure that California is becoming known for among engaged and eco-conscious wine drinkers.