By Fleury Estate
2016 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

Source
The Howell Mountain appellation, with its rolling hills and unique microclimates, offers spectacular vineyards and some of the most wonderful, sought-after wines. Standing gracefully above the valley floor and overlooking Saint Helena, Howell Mountain sees slightly warmer nighttime temperatures and cooler mid-day temperatures. The temperature difference is still pronounced enough to maintain balanced acidity, allowing the berries to develop a somewhat thicker skin that imparts intense color, texture, and structure to the wines.

Growing Season
A near-perfect vintage marked by an early start and ample spring moisture, followed by a long, mild growing season with consistently moderate temperatures. The absence of extreme heat allowed for slow, even ripening, while warm late-season conditions brought the fruit to optimal maturity. Harvest occurred under ideal conditions, resulting in balanced wines with excellent structure, concentration, and aging potential.

Wine Details
Varietal Composition: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot
Harvest: Hand-harvested, picked at night; hand-sorted while still cold from the field
Bottling: Unfined and unfiltered

Fermentation and Aging
Fermented in small, closed-top, stainless steel tanks with indigenous yeasts. Five-day cold soak, 29 to 34 days total maceration. Gentle pumpovers and delestage. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrels. Aging for 22 months in 75% new French oak barrels from select artisan coopers. Blended before bottling and returned to barrel to continue aging as a blend.

Tasting Notes
Concentrated aromas of blackberry, cassis, and black plum, layered with graphite, cedar, and dried sage, alongside subtle notes of cocoa, espresso, and baking spice. The full-bodied palate delivers rich dark fruit - black cherry, blackberry, and currant - complemented by hints of dark chocolate and tobacco, supported by firm, structured tannins and balanced acidity. The finish is long and persistent, with lingering minerality, spice, and ripe black fruit, reflecting the power, structure, and age-worthy character typical of Howell Mountain.
[Information provided by Matador Vino]