Winemaker Celia Welch (Scarecrow) and viticulturist Jim Barbour work with pristine fruit from Howell Mountain to produce small quantities of Cabernet Sauvignon from an estate that is renowned for its soil quality and natural habitat. Castiel Estate Cabernet Sauvignon takes life from its ideally situated, west-facing vineyard on Howell Mountain where the soil is comprised of volcanic tuff and riddled with ancient rock.
Winemaker's Tasting Notes
During the growing season of 2019, decent winter/spring rains followed by a relatively cool, even growing season gave the vineyards a lovely, moderate glide path into full maturity. The finished wine reflects its seasoning with the aromas of fully ripe currant, warm black cherries, and fresh sage. On the palate, the entry is fresh and bright, evolving into a mid-palate that shows density and blackberry flavors. As the wine fades, the lingering impression is of satiny tannins and juicy black cherry notes.
97 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
After 22 months in 70% new French oak, there’s scarcely a trace of it to be found on the nose of the stunning 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon. There’s a touch of bay leaf, perhaps the slightest hints of bell pepper and pine, but also masses of cassis. Dark, dense, and sturdy, this full-bodied masterpiece is rich, round, and supple, with a long finish that leaves a lingering trail of mocha and dark chocolate that somehow avoids any sense of heaviness or excess.