Intentus 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, 1x750ml
PRE-RELEASE: The 2023 Intentus Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from the Haymaker Vineyard off of Ink Grade Road on Howell Mountain in the Napa Valley. A small, hand-farmed vineyard perched high up on a southeastern-facing slope overlooking Lake Hennessey on the lower slopes of Howell Mountain. A meticulously hand-farmed vineyard that has produced incredible Bordeaux blends for decades.
Vines run along steep terraces to maximize sun exposure in a north/south orientation which makes it feel like you’re hiking in Machu Pichu or the steep slopes of the Duoro Valley. The volcanic soils add drainage and keep the vines struggling all year to produce tiny grapes with intense concentration and character. The beauty and best kept secret of this location is the thick fog that rolls in each night, giving these vines a much needed reprieve from their daily struggles. This not only restores moisture but also helps to retain a higher acidity for more freshness, vibrant fruit expression and longevity in the finished wines.
Clones 4 and clone 8, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Once hand-harvested, the grapes were placed into a small concrete tank for fermentation. Gentle punchdowns were done by hand, temperatures were kept low for slow and steady extraction. Instead of quickly draining the wine off the skins after primary fermentation, as is common practice, our winemaker Alan Viader decided to push into the unknown and keep it on the skins for an extended maceration period. Every week he would taste to see the progress and evolution of the wine. The wine continued to improve, weeks turned into months, macerating on the grape skins for a total of 2 months.
Elegant and seductive on the nose, offering dark fruit notes, espresso, dried herbs and rich cooking spices. The level of complexity that comes from the extended time on the skins is incredible. On the palate this wine has rich, bold layers of dark red fruit, cherry, cassis, graphite, spice, leather, dried herbs and lavender notes to excite your senses. Shaved dark chocolate, espresso and tobacco round out the package that is perfectly kissed by the new French oak to finish with that classic Napa Cab mouthwatering punch. Tannins are big and juicy with a silky round finish unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.
Only three (3) barrels will be produced of this truly unique mountain beauty. Handcrafted with love. Hand bottling expected to occur in spring 2025 with shipments going out late fall 2025.
Wines are sold from our little winery location in Napa Valley, CA and sent to a third-party shipping company for fullfillment. Ground shipping is standard. Upgrades are available at an additional cost. Wines will ship ground only when temperatures are safe for the wines. Please reach out with any questions. Thank you for your order and for helping support our mission.