2013 Premiere Napa Valley Auction Tierra Roja Katharine's Blend Cabernet Sauvignon

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.

Tierra Roja’s PNV 2013 Katherine’s Blend was made by two women, Linda Neal, owner of Tierra Roja Vineyards, and Katherine DeSante, one of Tierra Roja’s two winemakers. The other winemaker is Katharine’s husband, David DeSante. When they’re not making wine at Tierra Roja, the DeSantes make wines under their own artisanal DeSante Wines label, and consult for other estates. Wine Advocate has complimented Tierra Roja wines for “silkiness” and “seductive balance.” For the PNV 2013 Katherine’s Blend Neal and Katharine DeSante made Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon. This single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon was sustainably produced. Only five cases were made.

Lot 38