The fruit source for the single-vineyard 2015 C. Elizabeth Game Farm Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, is 100% from the “Rock Pit” block – an exceptional vineyard parcel situated on the old Rector Creek bed.  Here, in what may be the rockiest plot in the Napa Valley, vine roots are forced to dig deep for water and nourishment, yielding wines with great flavor intensity, depth of character, and finesse. 

Grapes were picked on September 15^th -- one of the earliest Cabernet harvests on record for the “Rock Pit” – necessitated by sustained high temperatures and a spike in sugar content.  With regards to aging, winemaker Bill Nancarrow continued to build on learnings from our inaugural vintage, and specifically, the American oak barrel trials.  Though pleased with the finished 2014 wine, he continued to evolve the barrel regimen in 2015.  The final 2015 oak lineup included five new oak barrel lots (PA and MO) and one neutral oak barrel lot.  These seemingly small adjustments made a positive impact, allowing the final wine to age perfectly with just the right balance of acidity, palate fullness, soft tannins, and great structure.