Gemstone Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (75cl)

A 750ml bottle of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Yountville in Napa Valley, California, crafted by winemaker Philippe Melka. The 2009 vintage draws on 13 heirloom Cabernet Sauvignon clones from both Bordeaux and premium Napa Valley sites, with whole-berry fermentation using native yeasts and bottling without fining or filtration. The estate vineyard sits on volcanic deposits from the Vaca Mountain Range, forming an alluvial fan with well-draining, rocky soils. Grapes were double-sorted and underwent whole-berry fermentation for 35 days using indigenous yeasts, and the wine was bottled unfiltered and unfined. The nose opens with black cherry and cassis, followed by cocoa powder and baking spice, with a subtle mineral thread. The palate is muscular yet refined, with dense dark fruit, cocoa and earthy spice, bright acidity and fine, well-integrated tannins. The finish is long and persistent, with mineral undertones and dark berry echoes.