Shibumi Knoll Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Saint Helena 2019

Picture this fairytale setting: a country cottage on top of a gentle grassy knoll which opens up to a vineyard of Cabernet Sauvignon and sweeping views of both the Vaca and Mayacamas Mountains. This is Shibumi Knoll. 

When Don and Joann Ross moved to the Napa Valley in 2003, their plan was to simplify. They wanted a home and a life that slowed down the moments and enriched the things they cared about most - their relationships with their family, friends, and the land. This idyllic setting was exactly what they were looking for, and the .75-acres of Cabernet Sauvignon vines that came with the 3-acre property was an enticing new project for the couple. Come to find out that not only was the vineyard planted on the distinct rocky soils of Mill Creek's alluvial fan, but they also inherited David Abreu's world-class vineyard management team. This was a special piece of land. 

When it came time to name their family label, Don and Joann quickly arrived at the name 'Shibumi Knoll'. Shibumi, is a Japanese word describing a physical and emotional state which most nearly translates to "the pursuit of perfection though simplicity" or "Effortless Perfection". This spoke to both the way they sought to live life as well as the way they hoped to make wine - a perfect fit. All the pieces finally fell into place when Don and Joann were able to bring Thomas Rivers Brown on board as their winemaker. Truly one of the greatest winemakers in the Napa Valley and beyond (Schrader, Riverain, Caterwaul), Shibumi Knoll was set for success. And the wines certainly deliver! Those who know have been loyal advocates of this small yet mighty label. It remains a local 'secret', found only on the elite lists of restaurants like The French Laundry. With production as small as 100 cases a vintage, it's not hard to imagine how a project of this echelon might stay undiscovered. This estate wine is the label's gem. 

Always 100% Cabernet, this wine is a standout that will please for years to come. The 2019 yield was small, and only 111 cases were produced, but the concentration of flavors are rich and bold. The nose offers roasted cocoa infused with dark fruit, blood orange and golden raisin. The wine is a pure expression of Cabernet at its best with an added earthiness and a healthy amount of tannin structure. Shibumi Cabernet is elegant and gorgeous lending to a truly sophisticated wine. This wine will get better and better as the years go on but open it now because you won’t want to wait to enjoy its charm!