Since 2016, La Place Vineyard has won us over with its beautiful aromatics, lithe tannins and extreme detail amidst richness and power. The 2019 not only shows off the quality of this site, but is a joyful representation of a fantastic growing season. The color is similar to the 2018, with a blue/black core and a magenta rim. The nose calls out for attention and showcases an exquisite panoply of exotic black, blue and red fruit aromas, graced by five-spice, sage, rosemary and a hint of Arabica coffee. On the palate, the wine is layered, deep and almost sneaky with its constantly changing array of rich flavors and intensity that guides the finish to a soft landing, minutes later.
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon La Place Vineyard comes from a site at the end of Larkmead Lane, and there’s a splash of 2% Petit Verdot in the blend, which was fermented in puncheons and aged 21 months in new barrels. Crème de cassis, tobacco, spice, darker blue fruits, and loamy earth all define the bouquet, and I love its purity and vibrancy both on the nose and palate. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, and balanced, it’s another remarkable wine from winemaker Mike Hirby.
From another Calistoga site, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon La Place Vineyard is rich, chocolaty and ripe. From vines that were 10 years old at the time of harvest, this wine delivers waves of cassis and plum flavors carried on a supple, full-bodied palate that's almost creamy in texture yet long and bright on the finish.
Aromas of toasted oak, blackcurrant, walnut and baked plum. Full-bodied with silky tannins. Extremely structured and muscular with lovely depth and intensity. Needs time to soften. Best after 2027.
A polished, ripe and driven Cabernet, with cassis and plum reduction flavors, which are laced with singed vanilla and sweet tobacco and carried by ample polished tannins. Shows a subtle sweet bay leaf hint on the finish, which echoes nicely amid the fruit. Drink now through 2032
