2016 Lava Block Cabernet Sauvignon

Winegrowing Information

The Lava Block is a 14 acre micro-climate within Kamen Estate. Planted in 2008, it is the rockiest slope in the vineyard requiring extensive planting efforts. 2016 was the last of the drought years in northern California. We saw early bud break at the estate and harvested this block over the first week of October. Heat spikes in early September set beautiful ripe fruit flavors in the Lava Block. The vines, at eight years old, were showing a beautiful maturity in this ripe and savory vintage.

Tasting Notes

Aroma overload! Juicy black-raspberry, wild blackberry jam, sour cherry, plum paste and cassis are firmly embraced by wet granite. Black cardamom, chaparral, black olive, ocean breeze and cappuccino foam add complexity to this savory wine. Showing restrained power, the elegant 2016 Lava Block gives all the signs of a super-nova wine. Balanced by silky, mineral driven tannins the palate is full, inviting and elegant. Enjoy over its 15 year evolution.

Vineyard Information

• 100% Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon at elevations of 1100–1450 ft.
• Moon Mountain District AVA, Certified Organic

Production and Technical Data

• Alcohol: 15.4%
• Production: 200 cases
• Release Date: February 2019