THE VINEYARD: The fruit for this wine came exclusively from our To Kalon Vineyard, which is located on prime benchland in the Oakville appellation. The well-drained, low-fertility soils and optimal sun exposure here enable the development of rich, complex flavors, and varietal character. The wine was primarily sourced from the 4x4-trained Monastery 04 Merlot block on the western edge of To Kalon, at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains.
THE VINTAGE: The 2021 vintage was excellent and mild. After rains in January and February, the season remained dry. The weather was optimal at budbreak in April and bloom in May. Weather remained even through summer and harvest, resulting in a lower-than-average yield of small, deeply concentrated grapes. In the cellar, the wine spent 28 days on skins to maximize color and body. The final blend was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels (100% new).