Winemaker Notes

Estate Cabernet is the signature wine of Obsidian Ridge Vineyard and embodies the complexity and wildness of the site. The structure and intensity of upper blocks is complemented by aromatics and acidity of cooler blocks. The extreme climate, altitude, and volcanics of the site result a wine with distinct volcanic character—intense color, aroma and flavor, with a freshness and minerality that typifies the site.

The Estate Cabernet Sauvignon captures the personality and verticality of this complex site. Multiple vineyard blocks are harvested in dozens of unique lots and vinified individually until crafting the final blend. Fermentation is completed in 8-10 days and wines are pressed immediately to avoid over extraction of the skins.

Obsidian wines are the only Cabernet Sauvignons in California (perhaps the world) aged in 100% Hungarian oak barrels. Our source forest in Tokaj is planted to the same oak species used in France, Quercus Petraea, however the trees grow more slowly due to the volcanic soils, resulting in 30% higher density of the wood. These super-tight-grain barrels are low in vanillan and relatively high in eugenol, which tends to emphasize herbal and spice components, and are toasted slowly at low temperatures to avoid imparting overt toasty notes. For this Estate bottling, we use exclusively Kádár Tokaj barrels from our own cooperage, 40% new, aged 15 months.

Blend : 90% Cabernet Sauvignon 3% Malbec 3% Petite Sirah 2% Petit Verdot 2% Syrah