2010 Ghost Block Yountville Cabernet Sauvignon

Ghost Block is a wine made in Yountville, in Napa Valley, by winemaker Rob Lawson. The grapes for the single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon come from the legendary Ghost Block Vineyard, which was named in honor of the historic Pioneer Cemetery adjacent to the vineyards. Ghost Block, the brand, also produces Sauvignon Blanc from the Morgan Lee Vineyard, also in Yountville. Ghost Block is owned by Bonded Winery #9, a family-owned conglomerate that owns 635 acres total of vineyards in Yountville and Oakville. The family traces its roots to Joseph and Mary Louise Pelissa, who purchased 35 acres in Calistoga in 1903. The family also owns and operates the Napa brands Oakville Winery and Elizabeth Rose.

Yountville AVA is just west of Stags Leap and north of Oak Knoll. It is centered around the town of Yountville, named for George Yountville, who planted the area’s first vineyard in 1836. The district received appellation status in 1999 and it includes 4,000 vineyard acres. It is known for tannic Cabernet Sauvignon that has a reputation for aging well. Dominus Estate, formerly Napanook Vineyard, is one of the most prestigious producers in Yountville, and in all of Napa Valley.

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.