Ric Forman is a living legend in Napa Valley. He was instrumental in the founding of many now-powerhouse brands, including Duckhorn and Sterling. He was deeply influenced by Bordeaux winemaking of which led to a hybrid of new-world fruit flavours, old-world terroir, and savoury character.

Ric planted his vineyards in 1979 with a dream that was crystal clear from the outset — find a special site ideally suited for growing Bordeaux grape varieties that would allow him to craft wines of finesse and elegance. He’s intimately involved with all aspects of his property allowing for a focused and meticulous crafting of every wine—from land, to grape, to hand, to bottle. His vineyards are located in St. Helena and the Rutherford Bench. These terroirs are composed of volcanic rock, gravel, loam, and sand in the foothills of Howell Mountain, which produce renowned and complex Cabernets.

Full-bodied and ripe, this wine has hallmark characteristics of a gravelly site: eucalyptus, dessicated violets and pencil shavings woven into a core of black and blue berries, ripe figs and cassis. Near jammy, warm fruit persists throughout the full-mouthfeel, and well-integrated but tense tannins call for a long rest in cellar.