The last of our 2015's to be released and perhaps the most powerful. The extra time in bottle has brought this beauty into a state of perfect equilibrium. A consistently warm year in which Cabernet thrived, turned out some of the most concentrated wines of the century. This is 100% from the Kenefick Ranch, Block 7, immediately across the road from Eisele Vineyard. Aromatics of blackberry jam, electric lingonberry torte, grilled bread, cinnamon, clove, dark chocolate and a deep minerality set the stage. The palate does what only Napa can do, with a layered, sweet, unctuous profile and plentiful, fine tannins. The finish features a panoply of flavors that seemingly go on forever.
Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon (from numerous clones), the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Artefact comes all from the Kenefick Ranch just across from Eisele Vineyard. Aged 21 months in 100% new French oak and sporting a deep purple color and terrific notes of blackcurrants, smoked earth, mulberries and graphite, this beauty hits the palate with lots fruit, a balanced, seamless, elegant texture, and building tannin. Straight up classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, drink it over the coming 15-20 years.
This rumbles with thunder, sporting licorice snap, Black Forest cake, steeped fig, mulled black currant and açai berry fruit flavors all woven together, backed by a dense, loam-tinted finish. Echoes of bay leaf and tobacco flit through. A large-scale wine in need of cellaring. Best from 2023 through 2037.
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Artefact is scented of crème de cassis, warm blueberries, licorice and potpourri, with a dusty earth and Chinese five spice undercurrent, plus a waft of cedar chest. The medium to full-bodied palate sings of perfume and spices, with a savory stewed tea character and chewiness, finishing with a lively herbal lift.
