Checkerboard 2011

There is a lovely finesse to the wines, a complexity of ripe red fruits, spice, and dried currants. The underlying power intensifies the mid palate providing a background of layers that linger far into the finish for a smooth, balance finale. Allowed to age a bit longer in barrel, this wine will bring great enjoyment, with or without extended cellaring. It is certainly one that will be fun to track as it gains bottle maturity.

Estate bottled by Checkerboard Vineyards, located on the southeastern slopes of Diamond Mountain at the northern end of the Napa Valley. The 300-acre estate has four vineyard developments, each with its own elevation, exposure, and soil composition. The estate vineyard development areas are connected by a two- and one-half mile drive from the Valley floor to the Ridge of Diamond Mountain through dense forests of Redwood, Douglas fir, Madrone, and Oak.