Scholium Project "Wolfskill" Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

The 2014 Wolfskill Reserve is a distinctive 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, deeply rooted in California's winemaking history. Originating from the Wolfskill Vineyard, which was planted in the 1970s by a descendant of one of California's pioneering grape growers, William Wolfskill, this vineyard lies in the Suisun Valley, close to Napa. It benefits from a location on a moderately sloping hillside with well-drained Aiken soil, providing an ideal environment for the vines.

The vineyard is meticulously farmed by Steve Tenbrink, known for his expertise and care in viticulture. The growth of the vineyard is carefully managed, ensuring a slow and even ripening of the grapes without the risk of roasting or dehydration, thanks to the well-designed training system that allows for ample sunlight and air circulation.

In terms of winemaking, the 2014 Wolfskill Reserve adheres to traditional methods. The majority of the fruit is destemmed and fermented in a large wooden tank, with extensive daily pump-overs for about a month. A portion of the fruit undergoes whole-cluster fermentation in large puncheons, complemented by frequent foot-treading. Post-fermentation, the wine is aged in neutral oak barrels for about 24 months, with minimal intervention, followed by a year of aging post-blending in a single tank.

The winemaking approach for this Cabernet Sauvignon is unique in that it doesn't prioritize fruit-forward flavors. Instead, it aims to develop a more complex profile with secondary and tertiary notes. Nonetheless, the inherent characteristics of the vineyard give rise to a wine with a pronounced core of classical fruit flavors. The wine stands out for its acidity and minerality, distinguishing it from many Northern California counterparts, and pays homage to the classic California Cabs of the 1970s.

With a total production of just 130 cases, the 2014 Wolfskill Reserve is a testament to the legacy of Californian winemaking and the unique terroir of the Suisun Valley.