Obsidian Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Obsidian Ridge Vineyard sits on a volcanic flow at the northern tip of the Mayacamas Range, at half a mile of elevation. Planted in 1999 on red volcanic soils shot through with black obsidian, the vines face an unforgiving mountain climate: low humidity, cold nights, and ultraviolet exposure 10% greater than at sea level. The result is small grapes with dark colour, thick skins, and intense flavours.

The estate spans three climatic zones from 2,300 to 2,640 feet. The uppermost vines sit above the inversion layer on the steepest, rockiest slope — ten degrees warmer on average — budding and ripening a month earlier, producing powerful, ripe flavours. The lower third is the coolest, yielding the most aromatic and nuanced wines. The central portion enjoys the longest hang time and the most beautiful balance.

Eight vineyard blocks are harvested in over 20 unique lots. Fermentation is completed in 8–10 days and wines are pressed immediately to avoid over-extraction. Obsidian wines are the only Cabernet Sauvignons in California — perhaps the world — aged in 100% Hungarian oak from their own cooperage in Tokaj. The super-tight-grain Kádár barrels are low in vanillin and high in eugenol, emphasising herbal and spice components. For this estate bottling: 40% new oak, aged 18 months.

Vineyard: Obsidian Ridge, Mayacamas Range | Elevation: 2,300–2,640 ft | Oak: 100% Kádár Tokaj, 40% new | Vintage: 2019