2019 Bell Wine Cellars Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon

Bell Wine Cellars in Yountville was founded in 1998 by winemaker Anthony Bell. A native of South Africa, Bell earned viticultural degrees in South Africa and California before beginning a 15-year career at Beaulieu Vineyards, and, later starting his own winemaking venture. In 2002 Bell sold part interest in his winery to Ron Berberian, a wine wholesaler, and Alex Spanos, an NFL team owner. Bell remains winemaker, and the estate produces both red and white wines. Along with estate vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Bell Wine Cellars produces Pinot Noir with Oregon grapes, as well as Syrah and other reds sourced from California vineyards. The estate also produces white wines, Port and sparkling wine.

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.