G. B. Crane Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

Stoic, the 2013 GB Crane Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a layered nose of ripe black plum, blackcurrants, allspice and fir. Massive upon entry, the textured palate floods with flavors of blackberry compote, ristretto and hints of pomegranate, complicated by strings of brambly fruit. Ever evolving on both the nose and palate, the baking chocolate structure has integrated tannins that will soften in time.

The Crane Assembly is centered around a unique eight-acre vineyard located in the gravel rich soils of southern St. Helena. It is believed that George Beldon Crane, or simply G.B. Crane, first established grapes on this site in the year 1885, making it one of the oldest vineyards in the Napa Valley. Although records are scarce, it was most likely planted as a field blend commonly known as “mixed blacks”. This field blend traditionally consisted of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignan, and a smattering of lesser-known grape varieties such as Alicante Bouschet, Mourvedre and Valdiguie.