Checkerboard Kings Row Red Blend Napa Valley 2019

If we sometimes refer to a small, estate winery or vineyard as a jewel box, then the Diamond Mountain District in the Napa Valley is a treasure trove. This region of volcanic soils comprises just 500 planted acres, all above 400 feet in elevation, that span the fog crested Mayacamas Mountains between St. Helena and Calistoga. The established wineries here are few, but they are among Napa’s most prestigious, among them: Diamond Creek, Constant-Diamond, and The Vineyardist. 

Checkerboard Vineyards is located on the southeastern slopes of Diamond Mountain at the northern end of the Napa Valley, farmed by Jim Barbour and handcrafted by Martha McClellan (Levy & McClellan, Sloan, Vineyard 7&8, Hamel, and formerly of Blankiet and Harlan), a woman known for painstakingly meticulous winemaking. Perched at 1,200 feet with full southern exposure, the Aurora Vineyard is bathed in open light from the east and west adding vital protection from summer fog. The 12-acre parcel is composed of two distinct soil types riddled with varying combinations of basalt cobble, loamy red clay, white volcanic ash, and chips of decomposed Rhyolite, all contributing to the striking minerality and intense aromatics that Checkerboard Vineyards has so beautifully harnessed over the years; a polished, glamorous style of wine from Diamond Mountain that has proven to be warranted the title of ‘cult wine’ in the Napa Valley. Since 2006, Checkerboard has been crafted solely from the Aurora Vineyard on this stunning Diamond Mountain property.

Kings Row, sourced exclusively from the Aurora Vineyard, is a barrel selection combining softer, more fruitful lots, keeping an approachable palate in mind.  The 2019 is a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon with equal amounts of Merlot and Petit Verdot rounding out the blend that is aged in 100% new French oak for 28 months.  While still offering hints of sweet baking spices and warm, toasty vanilla from the oak regimen, the wine is full of ripe raspberry, cocoa dusted cherries, super silky tannins, and a long, luscious finish.  Gorgeously smooth and pleasure-inducing. There's a lively, vibrant backbone and plush tannins that extend through to the finish. Bravo, Martha!