2022 CADE Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain

The 2022 vintage was very early and warm. A heat dome hit during Labor Day, catapulting sugars and, therefore, harvest. While some blocks fared well through the heat dome, others with rocky soils and low water holding capacity needed to be picked. The benefit of being at elevation in 2022 was that our vineyards did not get as hot as those on the valley floor. We were able to maintain great color and tannin, although slightly lower than average due to the intense heat in September 2022. However, Howell Mountain always has more tannin to offer than we need, so having a bit less tannin naturally allowed us to ferment on the skins slightly longer than normal while still giving that classic Howell Mountain structure and mouthfeel.