The Etude Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is handcrafted from several unique vineyards representing the major benchland sub-appellations of Napa Valley—Rutherford, St. Helena, Oakville and Calistoga. By deliberately sourcing fruit from this range of exemplary sources, the assembled wine attains the important range of expression and nuance that gives this wine its depth of character.

The blend for the 2005 bottling consists of Cabernet Sauvignon (98%) with a touch of Cabernet Franc (2%). The wine spent a minimum of 24 months in French oak barrels (80% new). The components were aged separately for approximately 12 months, the assemblage was then crafted and the blend was returned to barrels for an additional 10 months of aging before bottling.

Tasting Notes: Inviting aromas of black plum, blueberry and licorice leap from the glass of this Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and lead to layers of gingerbread spice and mint. This wine has the signature style of Etude with depth and richness of fruit and a velvety texture. The palate is full of dark fruit supported by supple tannins that are long and fine. An opulent Cabernet Sauvignon with powerful structure and intensity that underscores why this varietal is one of the major pursuits at Etude.