Winemaker Notes

HGIII, Hourglass' flagship blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Sirah, shines in the 2022 vintage, with Merlot commanding attention and delivering unmatched expressiveness. Aromas of red and black currants intertwine seamlessly with lavender and herbes de Provence, creating a floral interplay. On the palate, dark sour cherry and inky black cassis take the spotlight, supported by supple tannins and vibrant acidity. Subtle notes of light roasted coffee, plum, wild strawberry, and fennel add layers of complexity. The careful blend of 50% new and seasoned barrels ensures freshness while imparting barrel spice and structure, resulting in a wine of power, elegance and lasting impression.

Winery Notes

Hourglass wines represent a cutting-edge, modern Napa Valley winemaking style. Ned Smith bought the property in 1976 and his goal quickly shifted from fruit trees to his favorite wine, Zinfandel, with the lofty hope of supplying grapes to local wineries in exchange for finished wine. The land was eventually taken over by son Jeff Smith. In 1992, Jeff enlisted his family friend - and former rock band cohort - Bob Foley as winemaker for their new venture. Like so many aspiring guitarists, Bob had kept his day job over the years, making wine and garnering countless accolades and rock-star status for such labels as Robert Foley Vineyards, Switchback Ridge, Pride Mountain, School House and Paloma. Bob continues to make all the Hourglass wines and has the deep purple-stained hands to prove it. The calluses, however, are as much from guitar playing as his meticulous cellar work. Then, Hourglass's inaugural release came with the 1997 vintage, a seminal Napa vintage by many critics' standards.