2017 Pilcrow Cabernet Sauvignon Ghost Block Vineyard Yountville Napa Valley 750 ml

This is the couple’s second vintage from the Ghost Block Vineyard in Yountville. The plot  is unique for its volcanic soils, which were once situated on top of the Vaca Mountain range. Around 8 million years ago, a portion of the mountain peak fell into the center of the valley creating a hill of rarely exposed soils—mountain fruit on the valley floor! The vineyard is named for after its Yountville founder, George C. Yount, whose spirit still walks the vineyard (according to local legend.) 

In the cellar, Sara leans on the classic techniques that put Napa Valley on the map, highlighting the Ghost Block’s terroir with less French Oak and a short maceration time. Inspired by both New and Old World mentors—Jean-Michel Comme (Pontet-Canet), Keith Emerson (Vineyard 29), and John Williams (Frog’s Leap)—this wine is a gorgeous expression of Napa at its most balanced. 

In the glass, her expertise comes through beautifully with notes of tea and florals anchored to plush tannins and a streak of bright acidity. In the spirit of “old-school” Napa the alcohol is restrained at 13.8%, and the wine is the perfect fit at any table.