Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016. Auros

Auros Cabernet Sauvignon is a nuanced integration of over 15 different soil types across Napa Valley's diverse sub-appellations, each contributing distinct characteristics to create a multidimensional blend. A combination of meticulous site selection and gentle winemaking yields a plusher, rounder take on Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, making Auros refined, yet immanently approachable. Inspired by the Latin word for gold, Auros finds its muse in the golden blooms that weave through Napa Valley- a nod to the ancient Spanish missionaries who traced their journey across the valley with mustard seeds.

Auros is crafted with hand-selected fruit from a combination of vineyard blocks in three revered Napa Valley sub-appellations: Oak Knoll, Oakville, and Stag's Leap. More than 15 diverse soil types, formed over millions of years, converge here from the Pacific Ocean, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and the Napa River to create inherent characteristics that influence the final wine. Auros reflects predominantly deep, fine volcanic loam and gravelly, alluvial loam soils. Cabernet Sauvignon made from these specific soils in Napa Valley's Mediterranean climate offers a rich texture and soft tannins, balanced by ripe currant flavors and pleasing acidity.

The grapes for the 2016 Auros Cabernet Sauvignon were hand-picked and hand-sorted, then briefly cold soaked to enhance the extraction of vivid color from the Cabernet fruit. Following a warm fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the juice was kept in contact with the skins for two weeks to build rich, soft tannins in the wine. Malolactic fermentation further softened the mouthfeel. This Cabernet was aged in French oak barrels for 18 months, adding rich notes of vanilla and spice to the final blend.

This deeply concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon opens with dark fruit aromas of cassis, blackberry, and dried blueberry, underscored by notes of violet and graphite. The rich, full-bodied palate unveils opulent layers of black currant jam, roasted coffee, tobacco, dried fig, and vanilla bean. Soft, supple tannins frame a plush, velvety finish.

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