Melanson Vineyard Matthew's Block Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2017

Some of the most elite and coveted wines from the Napa Valley come from a distinct and exceptional area east of Oakville on Pritchard Hill. These treasured vineyards are said to have the sophistication of Oakville but with the extra intensity of a hillside. Ranging between 800-2000 feet in elevation, these vineyards shine well above the fog line that blankets over the Napa Valley floor in the mornings, and are planted in volcanic red clay loam soil providing mineral driven, intensely flavored grapes with thick skins. Only a handful of wineries are perched up on this illustrious hill, like royalty. You know the names: Chappellet, Ovid, Continuum, Colgin, David Arthur, Bryant Family. Those in the know however, know of a special vineyard located in the very heart of Pritchard Hill, the Melanson Vineyard. Greg Melanson bought this exceptional property in 1988 with 10.5 acres on it and sold his grapes to the most sought after winemakers in the valley; Heidi Barrett, Celia Welch, Thomas Rivers Brown to name a few. These winemakers took whatever they could get from this vineyard. From 2004-2008, he quietly made a small amount for his own production, but in early 2010, after joining with winemaker Jeff Fontanella, he decided to start sharing his wine under his own label. While you will see a handful of vintners still sourcing from this vineyard; Pulido-Walker, TOR, Celia Welch for Corra, Greg's own bottling under the Melanson label you will hardly see outside of California. We are so excited to offer this hidden gem to you! Deep purple in color, with lush aromas of ripe blueberries, blackberries, black raspberries, anise, and crushed flowers. The palate is rich and opulent with loads of juicy black fruit, dark chocolate, coffee, and silky tannins while still maintaining a balanced vibrancy. True to this vineyard, this is fantastically rich, regal, and royal.