2014 Harbison The Trail Cabernet Sauvignon

Harbison Estate in Oakville was founded in 2005 by Joe and Pat Harbison. For Joe Harbison, establishing his own winery was a culmination of a lifetime of collecting wine, studying wine, and donating wine to philanthropic causes. Harbison grew up with parents who enjoyed fine wine and entertained, and he started collecting wine as a teenager. After a stint in the navy in Europe he became a lawyer in northern California, where he often made charitable donations from his renowned cellar. In 2005 he and his wife purchased a small vineyard parcel on Oakville’s east side and began growing Cabernet Sauvignon. Jim Barbour, a legendary Napa Valley viticulturist, manages the vineyard. Russell Bevan, also a Napa Valley luminary, is winemaker. The estate produces about 75 cases a year and has earned high compliments from reviewers. Robert M. Parker Jr. has written that “these incredible wines should be sought out by anyone looking for amazing, high-test. Full-throttle, pedal-to-the-metal Cabernet Sauvignons.”

Oakville AVA is one of the two or three most prestigious appellations in the United States. Located in the heart of Napa Valley, its 5,000 vineyard acres produce some of the world’s most acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, including such California “cult” Cabs as Screaming Eagle and Harlan Estate. Before those boutique producers rose to fame in the 1990s, Oakville was already renowned as home to Robert Mondavi, Opus One and Groth Vineyards, among others. Along with the famous wineries, there are premier vineyards in this AVA, including Martha’s Vineyard and To Kalon Vineyard. To Kalon was first planted in 1868 by H.W. Crabb, one of California’s first viticultural researchers, and he named the vineyard after the ancient Greek phrase for “most beautiful.” Though many grapes can be successfully grown in Oakville, Cabernet Sauvignon is king. Merlot and Chardonnay are also frequently planted. Oakville Cabs are prized for their richness, complexity and weight. Oakville was designated as an AVA in 1993.

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.

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