2011 Havens Oakville Meritage

Havens Winery was founded in Napa Valley in 1984 by Michael and Kathryn Havens. A college professor, Michael Havens wanted to make Bordeaux and Rhone-style wines on their 12-acre estate. In 2006 Havens sold the winery to an East Coast importer, but the ownership of the estate has changed several times since then. Today Havens is owned by Shahin Shahabi, owner of Stonehedge Winery in Napa. Havens produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and red blends.

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.