"From the shovel’s first plunge into the vineyard soil, to its last scrape of the fermentation tank, La Pelle wines are equally crafted in the vineyard and in the cellar and are a true collaboration between farmer and winemaker." For partners Maayan Koschitzky, Miguel Luna and Pete Richmond, "La Pelle" is French for "The Shovel," an iconic symbol for viticulture and the vinification process, the shovel is the single tool which is used both in the vineyard and the cellar, first as it breaks through the soil and last as it removes the final grape deposits from the tanks prior to barreling down for aging.

This is such an interesting story behind the creation of La Pelle Wines. With the experience of the owners and winemaking team, we were anticipating a wonderfully made wine. We were not disappointed! The 2021 La Pelle Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend from their six “Bordeaux- style” vineyards focusing on four AVA designations in Napa Valley, Coombsville, Oak Knoll District, Oakville, and Saint Helena. The 2021 vintage is built for age worthiness with classic Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley of high density, structure, and concentration. The wine is aged 18 months in 60% new French Oak. In the glass the color is dark garnet, nearly opaque. Aromas of dark fruit, blackberry, ripe prunes, creamy cassis, notes of violets, black pepper, black tea, and pencil shavings. The palate is full-bodied, but with not too much weight. The juiciness of the fruit gives you a totally delicious full mouth-feel with wild herbs that adds interest and complexity. The wine has a silky texture, balanced feel, with polished tannins, perfect amount of acidity leading to a juicy, delicate finish.

By Perry Miroballi