Aperture’s collection of vineyards is among the most impressive in California, and it’s also one of the most diverse. For the Cabernet, they specifically work with some of the most unique sites throughout Alexander Valley, focusing on well-drained, volcanic soils. With little organic material, these soils help to control vigor & growth and increase concentration & complexity in the wine. Each vineyard yields grapes whose unique character is deeply tied to the land.
Composition: 52% Malbec | 48% Merlot
Tasting Notes: A combination of ripe currants, fresh raspberries and cherries, all carrying a bright acidity. Delicate violets & subtle tobacco emerge as the wine extends with a long, spice-driven finish. The tannins are well integrated and the texture elegant & silky, making this a wine that is drinking beautifully now and will continue to reward with cellaring.
Pairings: Lean cuts of beef such as sirloin, filet, or skirt, fire-roasted pork tenderloin, rotisserie chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and any cut of lamb.
Winemaking: All fruit is hand-harvested and brought into the winery within hours of being picked and is methodically & obsessively sorted. A cold soak of 4-7 days with minimal air incorporation starts the extraction and then cool fermentation with native yeast carries out the remaining. Air and temperature are controlled throughout the 10-15 day fermentation and extended macerations are determined at that point. This allows the winemaker to walk the fine line of full extraction but still keep an elegant & silky texture. Wines undergo malolactic fermentation in barrel and are aged (sur-lees) for 18 months in 50% New French oak. Bottled unfined, unfiltered, and un-acidified.
Winemaker: Jesse Katz - in a remarkably short period of time, Jesse has made himself into one of the most respected wine professionals in California. He was the first winemaker ever to be included in the Forbes '30 Under 30' list, a Wine Enthusiast '40 Under 40 Tastemaker,' and had been named a Wine Spectator “Rising Star.”
