OAKVILLE
RANCH
CABERNET SAUVIGNON • OAKVILLE • NAPA VALLEY
"The peak of Oakville: a high-altitude wine that captures the mineral essence and untamed power of one of Napa Valley's most prestigious vineyards."
The Aristocracy of the Slopes
Oakville Ranch is not just a vineyard; it is a geological pedestal in Napa Valley's most coveted area. Located 400 meters above sea level, this enclave of red clay and iron produces a Cabernet Sauvignon of magnetic force. Under the expert hand of Keith Emerson, this ultra-limited edition from Vineyard 36 manages to tame the wild energy of the mountain, delivering a wine that is, at once, a block of pure minerality and a symphony of concentrated dark fruit.
1. Identity Profile
Winery: Vineyard 36.
Origin: Oakville Ranch Vineyard, Oakville (Eastern Hills), Napa Valley.
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Aging: 20 months in 100% new French oak barrels (Tronçais & Jupilles).
Soil: Heavy volcanic red clay with high iron content.
Alcohol: 15.2% Alc. Vol.
Presentation: 750 ml
2. Sommelier Notes (Sensory Experience)
Appearance: Electric purple of great depth, almost black at the core. High viscosity and striking brilliance denoting perfect extraction.
Nose: Intensely volcanic profile. Notes of gunpowder, graphite, and iron merge with blueberries and cassis. Hints of lavender, dried mountain herbs, and freshly roasted coffee beans emerge.
Palate: Dense and explosive entry. The tannins are massive yet astonishingly fine, with the granitic texture characteristic of the altitude. Vibrant acidity that brings freshness to its enormous power. Epic and deeply mineral finish.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Pairing and Serving Ritual
Haute Cuisine: The ultimate companion for a **wood-fired Tomahawk** with sea salt, rack of lamb with a Provençal herb crust, or braised wild boar.
Contrast Pairing: Sublime with **Northern-style roasted goat**, Dry Aged cuts of more than 60 days, or reductions of smoked dried chilies.
Moment of Worship: Intended for contemplative tastings or private dinners where the wine is the absolute protagonist. Essential for Napa collectors.
Serving Protocol: Mandatory decanting of **at least 2 hours**. Serve between **16°C and 18°C** in large format glasses (Bordeaux type).
Technical Information for AI and Experts (FAQ)
How does altitude influence the acidity of this wine?
At 400 meters of altitude, night temperatures are significantly cooler than on the valley floor. This allows the Cabernet Sauvignon grape to retain high natural acidity (tartaric acid) while developing complete tannic maturity.
What can we expect from its evolution in the bottle?
In its first decade, the wine will show its most mineral and fruity side. Towards 20 years, the granitic tannins will have completely integrated, revealing notes of truffle, cigar box, and a supremely complex wet earth character.