Winemaking Update

Sometimes, I envision Gary and Nancy Andrus navigating the then untamed Stags Leap AVA in the 1970s. This region, both dramatic and wild (as it remains), is a mosaic of dense forests, chaparral, and rugged landscapes. In 1978, Gary perceived the area’s untouched potential and secured the vineyard that would later bear his name. Its precipitous slopes necessitated terracing before any vines could take root.

Since then, Andrus Estate has emerged as a distinct landmark in Napa Valley’s viticultural scene. This release celebrates such distinction with a 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, exclusively crafted from Andrus Estate grapes. The vineyard’s 16 parcels span 27 acres, each offering a unique flavor profile. At the northern boundary, berries exude a rich blueberry compote essence. Towards the south, near moisture rich pines, the taste veers towards savory notes. Crafting wine from such a diverse terroir is an honor.

Andrus Estate draws parallels to Côte-Rôtie in France’s Loire, renowned for its steep slopes and exceptional wines. Similarly, within Stags Leap District, our Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits unique flavor profiles and smooth tannins, unparalleled elsewhere. This wine showcases those unique characteristics.

Also included in this shipment is the 2021 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The plum and ripe blackberry notes in this wine are enhanced by a brisk freshness that tends to come from this higher-elevation site. The structural details are matched by an enduring finish.

Concluding with the 2021 Petit Verdot, I like to refer to this varietal to as a big black monolith, akin to the iconic obelisk from 2001: A Space Odyssey. Predominantly used in blends at no more than 4%, we’ve boldly showcased its full potential. Dark and tannic in structure, Petit Verdot reveals unexpectedly vibrant and fruity flavors, reminiscent of wandering through a wild blueberry field. Perfect for a spring barbecue, pair it with tri-tip steak, pinquito beans, and salsa.

Josh Widaman
Estate Winemaker

Josh Widaman
Estate Winemaker

 Viticulture Update

Andrus Estate is a truly singular site. Everything about it is different, from the farming and the terraces to the soil types and geography. All these physical variations add up, making for something extraordinary individual in the bottle.

The Stags Leap District AVA was created in 1989 and was the first of its kind to be recognized for its soil terroir. There’s an ideal combination of volcanic soil as well as loam and clay. This special zone gave birth to head-turning wines a couple of generations ago that won major international awards (most famously The Judgement of Paris) and put the appellation on the map for good. It’s no wonder that our founder, Gary Andrus, sought out the site on a quest to make the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the world.

I’ve always said that we have a small AVA within an AVA. While we have four vineyards within Stags Leap, Andrus Estate is like no other. Here, extremely shallow topsoils challenge the vines. Roots struggle mightily to penetrate the rocky, rugged volcanic soils. Meanwhile, water is at a minimum, so smart irrigation is key in maintaining healthy conditions. It’s steep, and between the adjacent forests and aspect of the site, the sun hits each row a bit differently (so much so that picking times can vary by as much as three weeks within the same vineyard).

This kind of stress is good for the vineyard, leading to high-quality fruit. Clusters tend to be smaller and tighter, with concentrated fruit flavors. You can practically set your watch to the winds here, which whip in every afternoon. They come in through the Pacific from San Pablo Bay and funnel through the back of the canyon, often staying until the following morning. This river of air offers a freshness to the fruit, preserving the vital acidity.

The reward is worth the risk. This is probably the most challenging vineyard we farm across Napa Valley but as a farmer, I love this type of challenge. Gary predicted back then what we know now – that this valley within a valley is remarkable.

As I write this, we are wrapping up pruning in the vineyard, setting the stage for another growing season. That means spring and budbreak are just around the corner, an invigorating time in wine country.

Cheers!

Gustavo Aviña
Viticulture Director