Montecillo Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Beef, Lamb, Game (deer, venison)

The Montecillo Vineyard is one of the oldest plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon in Sonoma County, and is still thriving under the watchful eye of Chuy Ordaz, who has tended these vines since he planted them, own rooted, in 1969. The vineyard is situated at 1700’ on the ridgeline that divides Napa Valley from the Valley of the Moon in Sonoma County. This old, healthy, dry-farmed site is one of the most spectacular Cabernet plantings that we have seen anywhere in the world. It is a true joy to behold such robust unirrigated vines of this age in California. This vineyard speaks to a bygone era of viticultural practices that have stood the test of time. The soils in Montecillo are extremely rocky and austere, limiting yields and increasing concentration in the tiny berries. The deep roots and mountain-grown nature of this Cabernet fruit lends itself to crafting a wine of place that has the backbone to age gracefully for decades in the cellar. We find ourselves fortunate to share in the ongoing stewardship of this vineyard and are honored with the task of continuing its legacy.

Aged 23 months in French oak, 30% new.

Vinified using native yeats for primary and malolactic fermentation. 30% whole cluster

The focus of Arnot-Roberts is to produce distinctive, site-driven wines that highlight the nature of the unique terroirs in which the grapes are grown. The journey to this end has led Duncan and Nathan to seek out vineyards throughout Northern California and now includes incredible sites in Napa Valley, Sonoma Coast, Santa Cruz Mountains, Santa Rita Hills, Clearlake and Sierra Foothills. Single-vineyard wines are the core of the production as well as a few appellation bottlings that clearly speak of their individual upbringings. Some of the vineyards are old and dry-farmed, some are newer plantings but all are farmed and cared for by passionate and conscientious growers, which is paramount to the fundamental goal of Arnot-Roberts: producing the most honest and expressive wines possible.