2019 Ladera Vineyards Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon

Ladera was established in 1877 when Bordeaux native Jean Brun planted 20 acres of Medoc grapes on Howell Mountain. A few years later Brun and his business partner built a winery. Today the estate is owned by Pat and Anne Stotesbery and the winemaker is Jade Barrett. Ladera specializes in making Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, though it also produces Sauvignon Blanc and Rose.

Atlas Peak AVA is perched above the Stags Leap AVA to the northeast of the city of Napa. Elevation ranges from 760 to 2,600 feet, and temperatures are up to 15 degrees cooler in the Atlas Peak vineyards compared with vineyards in the valley. There are 1,500 vineyard acres planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The appellation was named for Atlas Peak, which, at 2,633 feet above sea level, is the highest peak in the area.

One of the most widely grown grape varieties, it can be found in nearly every wine growing region. A cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a hardy vine that produces a full-bodied wine with high tannins and great aging potential.