Leo Steen Cabernet Sauvignon ‘Tin Cross Vineyard’ 2019

Leo Steen brings us the carefully crafted Cabernet Sauvignon from the Tin Cross Vineyard in the newly honored Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak AVA in Sonoma County. The vineyard is noted for its unique combination of shale and sandstone-based soil layered with volcanic rocks. The elevation of 2400 feet also results in warm days and cool nights that create an ideal climate for producing mountain fruit with elegance and personality.

Harvested in September at 22.6 brix, the grapes underwent rigorous selection and were handpicked to ensure only the highest quality fruit made it to the fermenter. In open top fermentation tanks, the Cabernet underwent manual punch downs twice daily and then extended maceration for 13 days. After the juice underwent multiple press fractions, it was delicately transferred to the cellar and put into French oak barrels, of which 25% was new.

The finished wine displays inviting aromas of black cherry, blueberry and cocoa powder. On the palate, it is alive with black fruit notes, supported by herbal and floral touches. Leo Steen delivers a sleek, structured Cabernet Sauvignon, featuring balanced acidity and firm tannins. This balanced and densely textured Cabernet Sauvignon is the perfect candidate for long-term ageing.

Under the expert guidance of Winemaker Leo Steen, the mountain fruit from Tin Cross Vineyard has resulted in a mulch-faceted and precise Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine offers the perfect blend of refinement with the rustic elements of mountain terroir. With its slow-ripening and diurnal temperature variation, it is a great example of nature and the skill of the winemaker working in harmony.