Young Ridge 2002 Napa Cabernet

The Young Ridge Estate Vineyard is surrounded by two vineyard blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon. These blocks sit high on the ridge to the west of the town of Napa adjoining to Brown’s Valley. This area on the edge of the Carneros district is characterized by a long, moderately cool growing season sweetened by the breezes and lingering fog of the San Pablo Bay, temperatures in this American vinicultural area (AVA) are slightly cooler than Burgundy, yet slightly warmer than Champagne. As such, Carneros provides optimum conditions for the slow, even ripening of and perfect balance in Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Pope Valley Ranch (99 acres) was purchased in 1995. This block consists mostly of Cabernet Sauvignon (94%) but also has some Petite Verdot, Malbec, Cab Franc and Zinfandel. Hugo loam is the principle soil used to grow these vines. It is spring fed from Aetna Springs (Pope Valley Property) and was named after a nearby hot spring. The spring was so named by the owner of the Aetna Mines, John Lawley, when he discovered the spring in the 1880s. Elevation is at 771 feet. 60 acres planted.

94 POINTS - "Garnished with a dark red-purple hue, the wine opens up with complex aromas of ripe berries, plum, blue fruits, dark chocolate nibs, leather, tobacco, and cedar. Long, rich and lavish, the concentrated flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, boysenberry and blueberry are lifted with notes of wild sage, cinnamon, clove, and savory spices. With a velvety texture, silky tannins, firm structure and a long, dry finish; the wine gets bigger and more complex with every sip. Gracious, elegant and smooth—a true mouthfilling experience with class and charm." - Chris Sawyer

To match these complex flavors, try this wine with hard cheeses, roasted vegetables, raviolis with hearty red sauce, venison, grilled steaks, and rack of lamb.