2015 Gandona, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley - Magnum

Manuel Pires’ Gandona Estate cultivates Cabernet Sauvignon from the steep, iron-rich volcanic soils of Pritchard Hill, employing dry-farming where possible and an ethos of early harvesting to preserve freshness. The 2015 vintage, marked by a fourth consecutive drought year and low yields due to a cold flowering period, necessitated precise vineyard management to achieve physiological ripeness. Winemaker Philippe Melka guided lots through hand-sorting and concrete fermentation, with aging occurring in the estate's subterranean cave to ensure consistent conditions. This meticulous approach yielded a Cabernet Sauvignon of full weight, defined by ripe fruit density, bright acidity, and a structure underpinned by well-managed, integrated tannins that gained complexity with age. The resulting wine is a direct expression of Pritchard Hill’s demanding terroir and Gandona’s commitment to site-specific viticulture.