2012, Checkerboard Vineyards, Red Bordeaux Blend, Aurora Vineyard, Napa Valley, California, 14.9% Alc, CT96

Winemaker Notes

Aurora Vineyard rests on a knoll in a small valley
midway up our mountain at 1,200 feet in
elevation. Suggestive of its storied past, the soils
are riddled with basalt rock and volcanic ash.

The aromas of 2012 Checkerboard Aurora
Vineyard offer subtle hints of sweet
sandalwood, dark red cherry and graphite. On
the palate, the fruit is beautifully integrated
with a touch of blue fruit and tobacco leaf. Soft
tannins offer an elegant mid-palate and provide
the foundation for an extended finish of fruit
and minerality that is indicative of the site. In
its youth, this 2012 vintage benefits from
decanting prior to service.