Discover the exquisite Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon Estate from Mount Veeder, a rare gem meticulously crafted in small batches by Bill and Kathy Jenkins. This sustainably farmed, estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon thrives on the rugged, dry-farmed slopes of the Mayacamas Mountains, a testament to the unique Mount Veeder terroir. The wine boasts intense flavors of ripe dark fruits like black cherries and plums, complemented by floral notes of violets, hints of mountain herbs, and a touch of spice from its extended aging in French oak. With firm yet elegant tannins and well-balanced acidity, this wine delivers a structured, lingering finish. Perfectly paired with hearty dishes like braised short ribs or wild mushroom risotto, this artisanal wine represents the pinnacle of Napa Valley excellence. A must-have for connoisseurs, this limited-production Cabernet Sauvignon encapsulates the bold character and refined complexity of its mountain origins.
Process & Profile
Crafted from dry-farmed, sustainably managed vines on steep, west-facing slopes, this Cabernet Sauvignon reflects the meticulous care and natural conditions of Mt. Veeder. Wing Canyon Vineyard, a small-scale, family-run winery, follows environmentally responsible farming practices and vinifies its wines in small lots. The fermentation occurs in open fermenters, with malolactic fermentation taking place in French oak barrels. The wine is aged for a minimum of two years in a mix of new and seasoned oak, imparting layers of complexity and depth.
Tasting Notes
This Cabernet Sauvignon captivates the senses from the first pour. Expect a bouquet of dark cherries, violets, and subtle herbal notes. On the palate, it delivers a rich tapestry of blackberry, dark plum, and raspberry flavors, complemented by hints of cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla. Subtle undertones of mountain chaparral and licorice reflect the unique Mt. Veeder terroir. Its well-structured tannins and balanced acidity make for a long, elegant finish.
What Makes It Special
Wing Canyon Vineyard is one of Napa Valley's hidden gems. Producing only a few hundred cases annually, this wine represents the best of artisanal winemaking. The vineyard's high altitude and gravelly loam soil contribute to the wine's intense concentration and distinctive minerality. The family-owned operation ensures hands-on attention to every detail, from vine to bottle, resulting in a wine that stands apart for its authenticity and character.
How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate this wine, decant it for 30 minutes to allow its flavors to open up. Serve it alongside robust dishes such as grilled ribeye steak, lamb chops with rosemary, or a hearty mushroom risotto. The wine's bold profile also pairs beautifully with aged cheddar or dark chocolate desserts. Best enjoyed now or cellared for 8-10 years to develop even more complexity.
Experience the essence of Mt. Veeder with Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine that offers not just a drink but a journey into the heart of Napa Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon unique?
This wine is crafted from estate-grown grapes on Mount Veeder's rugged terrain, which features steep slopes and volcanic soils. These conditions result in highly concentrated flavors, firm tannins, and a distinct influence from the Mount Veeder chaparral and spice.
What are the tasting notes for Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon?
Expect rich aromas of dark cherries, raspberries, and plums, complemented by notes of vanilla, licorice, cinnamon, and star anise. The palate reveals layers of blackberries, violets, and a hint of mountain herbs, finishing with balanced acidity and structured tannins.
How is Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon produced?
The wine is dry-farmed and made in small lots using sustainable farming practices. Grapes are fermented in open-top fermenters with punchdowns performed twice daily. Aging occurs in French oak barrels, promoting an elegant integration of flavors.
What food pairs well with this wine?
Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon pairs excellently with rich, hearty dishes like grilled ribeye steak, braised short ribs, or aged cheeses, as its bold structure and balanced acidity complement savory flavors.
What is the aging potential for Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon?
Thanks to its concentrated flavors, firm tannins, and balanced acidity, this wine can age gracefully for 7 to 10 years, or even longer under proper storage conditions.
How does Mount Veeder's terroir influence the wine?
Mount Veeder's high elevation, volcanic soils, and cooler microclimate create a long growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly. This results in wines with complex flavors, vibrant acidity, and well-structured tannins.
Is Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon a single-varietal wine?
While primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine often includes small percentages of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, enhancing its complexity and depth.
How sustainable is Wing Canyon's production process?
The vineyard employs 100% sustainable farming practices, adhering to OMRI guidelines, and focuses on handcrafting wines with minimal environmental impact.
What is the production volume for Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon?
Production is highly limited, with only small numbers of cases released each year, making it a rare and sought-after wine.
Does Wing Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon reflect traditional Napa Valley characteristics?
Yes, but with its own Mount Veeder distinction. It combines bold, dark fruit flavors typical of Napa Valley Cabs with the mountain-grown characteristics of minerality and firm tannins, offering a unique and memorable wine experience.