Donn and Molly Chappellet fell in love with the steep, rocky hillsides of Pritchard Hill in Napa Valley, founding their winery in 1967. Don had a passion for  French wines and was a savvy businessman, trusting the advice of iconic winemaker André Tchelistchef on the potential of this mountainside property. The high elevation vineyards were ideally suited for the planting of Bordeaux varietals. In 1967 the couple crafted their first vintage of a Chenin Blanc, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon in 1968. This is a five-decade old family run winery with all six children involved in some aspect of winery operations.

 

This 100% single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a secluded parcel on the property at 1,400 feet elevation. It reveals a dark opaque shadow with an aromatic perfume of purple violets and rose petals. Within are elements of dark crème de cassis, and blackberry marmalade laced with notes of roasted espresso bean and chocolate shavings.  The tannins are finely woven into this exquisitely crafted Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is extremely approachable at this early stage of development, yet destined for a long future.