Checkerboard Kings Row Red Blend Diamond Mountain 2021

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 is produced from grapes grown in the Aurora Vineyard, which is located in a small valley midway up Diamond Mountain on a prominent knoll at an elevation of 1,200 feet. The knoll projects off the mountainside, giving the vineyard full southern exposure, open light from the east and west, and protection from Napa Valley’s summer fog. The 2021 is a complex wine showcasing the Bordeaux varietals grown in the Aurora Vineyard. The nose is a swirl of dark red fruits, baking spice, and sandalwood. On the palate, the fruit dominates and offers hints of dried crushed herbs, black pepper, and freshly pressed espresso. There’s a juicy core that is persistent from the approach through to the finish.