Faust 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley (Quintessa)

The Quintessa Estate is known for their singular great wine: Quintessa, so Faust is not what they consider a second wine. The Estate was planted to five classic Bordeaux red grapes in 1990; Cabernet Sauvignon; Merlot; Malbec; and Cabernet Franc. Prior to 1990 the land had never been planted to vines; quite unusual for such a prestigious Rutherford site. Classic Napa Valley red fruit in the nose, also aromas of creme brulee, orange and walnuts. Dense and rich with tightly wound finish. Good weight, great length and firm tannins. Faust is blended of the best wines not used in 'Quintessa Estate' in Rutherford. Winemaker Notes - In 2006, a cool, wet spring gave us a late start to the growing season. Summer was mostly cool with some heat spikes, ideal for Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Harvest came a little late following some warm and cool spells in August and September, and moderate weather during harvest allowed for fully ripe, intensely flavored fruit. At harvest, the grapes are double sorted and crushed at Quintessa, and then cold macerated and fermented in oak and stainless steel tanks. Faust is aged for 18 months in 25% new and 75% once-used French Oak.