There is the opportunity to make great wines of enduring character. Finding such an opportunity begins the next chapter for DeSante Wines; a great Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon.
Our 2005 vintage Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon represents the culmination of 5 years of work. In 2001, we began the “Calder” program of finding special vineyards and making small lots of wine. This special project began our search. “Calder” became a vehicle that brought us understanding of the balance between the Bordeaux red-grape varieties, experience with the great terroirs that Napa has to offer, and permitted us to hone our red winemaking skills. We worked with memorable Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and even Syrah. We traveled between Carneros, Yountville, Spring Mountain, Howell Mountain, Calistoga, St. Helena, and Oakville. After 5 vintages, the perennial gems in the wine cellar became evident.
There is a small group of vineyards in Oakville that produced Cabernet Sauvignon unlike any that we have tasted. Located in the steeply terraced, red rock knolls of east Oakville, these special sites became our favorites. There is the opportunity to make great wines of enduring character. Finding such an opportunity begins the next chapter for DeSante Wines; a great Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon.
Dark ruby to purple at the center of the glass, the aromas of mocha, dark cherry, black currant, blackberry and vanilla easily transcend the rim for your enjoyment. Oakville is famous for its “big entry” palate, and this wine is right on track with flavors of Damson plum, ripe Bing cherry, blackberry and dark chocolate. The other classic Oakville element is palate texture. The tannins flow with the wine and support its journey across the palate, cocoa like in consistency, providing vibrant structure without an edge or coarse note. The entire experience of this Cabernet is balanced and harmonious from entry to the finish, which endures as a warm note of vanilla and cassis.