Pahlmeyer Jayson Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Abundant winter rainfall, a cool spring, late bud break, surprise hail in June, and a touch of mid-harvest precipitation made for a challenging 2011 growing season. Rocky soils and sloping terrains kept our ridgetop vineyards well drained so while yields were low, fruit was exceptionally balanced and concentrated. Intensive berry-by-berry sorting further ensured optimal quality. The grape clusters were hand-sorted and de-stemmed, then sorted again on the way to tank. After five days of cold maceration in small open-top fermenters, the grapes began fermentation with 100% native yeast. After three weeks, the fruit was gently pressed and moved to French oak barrels (50% new) to complete primary and secondary fermentations, aged for eighteen months, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. Our inaugural release of Jayson Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon leads with mouthwatering aromas of ripe cherries, freshly cut carnation and cracked pepper. The silky entry evokes juicy red plums and rich Swiss chocolate, handsomely framed with notes of river stone, fennel and black tea. Fine-grained tannins lend a sophisticated elegance and model structure that allow this wine to drink nicely upon release. Jayson wines exemplify Jayson Pahlmeyer’s unquenchable desire for excellence and cutting-edge winemaking. Produced with the same impeccable standards and winemaking pedigree for which Pahlmeyer is known, Jayson wines are at once luxurious and instantly approachable. The new label showcases the wines’ pedigree and distinction.