Snowden
Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve – 2007
Region: CALIFORNIA - NAPA VALLEY
Snowden
Since 1955, the Snowdens have farmed their vineyard high above the Napa Valley. In addition to the stunning views of St. Helena, Rutherford and the San Francisco Bay, the estate offers four separate sites producing remarkably complex and individualistic wines. Winemaking duties are in the capable hands of Diana Snowden Seysses. The winery produces Bordeaux blends from their estate vineyards and a small amount of Sauvignon Blanc from a small parcel they call the Lost Vineyard.
The Wine
Vineyard Profile
Hillside estate vineyards on the eastern slope of Napa Valley overlooking Rutherford.
- Altitude: over 800 feet
- Soil: Rhyolite (volcanic sand)
Harvest Notes
- Hand harvested October 6-9, 2007
- Aged 18 months in 50% new French oak barrels
- Bottled unfined Spring 2009
Winemaker's Notes
A deep purple, intense wine. Blackberry, espresso, licorice, cassis, and smoked herb aromas. A full and fruity palate with definition gives way to a long, complex finish.
Wine Summary
86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc; alcohol: 15.2%; vines grown above 800 feet in rhyolite (volcanic sand) soil; hand harvested October 6-9, 2007; aged 18 months in 50% new French oak barrels; bottled unfined Spring 2009.
Technical Information
- 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc
- Alcohol: 15.2%
Reviews
97+ Points
Dazzling. It should evolve for three decades. Its dense purple color is accompanied by a thrilling bouquet of espresso roast, smoked herbs, licorice, creme de cassis, blackberries, and ink. The wine hits the palate with a blast of fruit, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and tremendous purity, definition, and length. The sensational purity and exquisite balance between all its elements are impressive as well as noteworthy.
© Wine Advocate, December, 2009
General Info
| Country | USA |
| Region | Napa Valley |
| Appellation(s) | Napa Valley |
| Proprietors | Scott and Joann Snowden and Randy and Janet Snowden, managing directors of Snowden Vineyards |
| Founded | 1955 |
| Winemaker | Diana Snowden-Seysses |
| Annual Production | 2,900 9L cases |
| Farming (Sustainable, organic, biodynamic) | Sustainable (including no chemical herbicides used in vineyards) |