ASHES & DIAMONDS’ Mountain Cuvée “Saffron Vineyard” comes from Lisa Chu’s organically farmed Mt. Veeder site, located high above the fog inversion line at an altitude of 1,500 feet, where daytime temperatures are often 15 degrees cooler than on the valley floor. The deep-rooted Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapevines were planted in 2000 in thin soils comprised of uplifted marine sediment and fractured shale. Soils with naturally low fertility and no irrigation make for naturally balanced grapevines with low yields and small berries. Once at the winery, the grapes are cold-soaked until native fermentation begins. The resulting wine is bouncy and outgoing, with explosive red fruit aromas like biting into a ripe, juicy plum, and fine, focused tannins.
After several years in the Ashes & Diamonds cellar, 2016 Saffron Vineyard is experiencing an awakening. Its flavors are transformative, from demure to decadent: layered Asian plum sauce, pomegranate molasses, black cherry and cacao, with a lingering finish spotlighting soft, plush tannins that have resolved with time. Ethereal aromas of Chinese baking spices, cardamom and violets entice the senses, revealing the wine in all its complexity. Time is an elixir for unmasking the grandeur of exceptional high-elevation vineyards such as this, especially their cooler vintages. (Tasting Notes, 11/20/23)
A&D Members receive preferred pricing of $95 upon checkout.
