Burgess Cellars Sorenson Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2021

In 2020, the Lawrence family purchased Burgess Cellars, becoming the sixth in a line of stewards dating back to the 1870s. Tragically, the Glass Fire destroyed the original Burgess winery three weeks later, but a silver lining emerged in that the estate vineyards were spared from the devastation. Since acquiring the estate and following the fire, the Lawrences have built a dedicated team to preserve the centuries-long legacy of crafting remarkable Napa Valley wines while looking to the future. The most significant change implemented has been the transition to regenerative farming led by winemaker Meghan Zobeck. The 2021 Sorenson Cabernet marks the first vintage produced under the new leadership, with a clear vision of honoring heritage and conserving for the next generation.

Sorenson Vineyard is the crown jewel of Burgess Cellars as the first vineyard site of the brand, planted back in 1871. The vines lie just below the Howell Mountain demarcation line between 800-1,000 feet in elevation, where they bathe in cool morning fog before the day of bright sunshine on the western-facing slopes. While regenerative is an all-encompassing term to describe the Burgess farming ethos, they do not dogmatically follow one specific prescription; instead, they pull from organic, biodynamic, and regenerative techniques. Their approach is both strategic and reactive, keeping the needs of the vines first as they navigate the ever-changing circumstances of terroir and vintage.

2021 is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and underwent native fermentation via pied de cuve, where a small portion of grapes is fermented ahead of the full pick and kick-starts fermentation, much like a sourdough starter. The wine spent 31 months in 30% new French oak before bottling in August 2024. “This wine is reminiscent of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon from the 1970s with an iron core and notes of rose petal, along with clove and Chinese five-spice. Vibrant acidity and a long, graceful finish are the hallmarks of this wine – classic and pure.” ~Winery Tasting Notes. Only 136 cases produced!