2016 Kathryn Kennedy Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

In vintages such as 1999, 2010 and 2012 we find a situation where Cabernet Sauvignon is of ultimate quality across most vineyard sites and California regions. This has never been more true that it was again in 2016. The season was near ideal with a long and gradual culmination to supreme harvest condition. Our pick date was Sept 27th, this wine was fermented in small open top vats employee the utmost love and care. Aging for 22 months in 40% new oak (80% French, 20% American. For me the hallmark of the best of 2016 is a harmonious and rich texture in the mouth that calls to its extreme celler potential. Kathryn Kennedy 2016 has a deep complex and earthy aroma with dark berries. This wine is sexy and ever so sophisticated. Richer than elegant but no doubt a refined expression of Santa Cruz Mountain wine.- M. Mathis 

Born in 1927, Kathryn moved from Santa Cruz to Santa Clara Valley at the age of 15. She earned a degree from Stanford University at the age of 19. Married, and with the first of her four children, Kathryn moved to her Saratoga property in 1949. Her inspiration to plant a vineyard came from experiencing a fine bottle of Martin Ray Cabernet from the 1950s as well as from observing the workmen tend an old Cabernet vineyard across the road from her home.
Kathryn became known for her Estate Cabernet, packaged in a distinctive silver label that bears her signature. This flagship wine is an age-worthy bottling limited to 600 cases per year. Over her 35 years in the wine business, Kathryn has solidified a reputation as an elite Cabernet specialist, considered by many to be one the top producers in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Estate Vineyard: These vines cover gentle slopes in Saratoga, California on the inland side of the Santa Cruz Mountains. In 1973 eight acres of vines were planted on their own roots by Kathryn and her extended family. Excellent soil, a climate possessing just the right amount of marine influence, and intense personal attention combine to yield superb quality grapes. Each vintage is grown by hand and vinified in small lots followed by gentle barrel aging with 90% French oak. The result is complex and richly textured wine with deep color and a decade or more of aging potential. Note: in 2015, the Estate Vineyard was reduced to just ONE acre – thus drastically reducing production (about 100 cases are produced now).