Our 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon from old-vine Block 3 Clone 15, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, was harvested in the early morning of September 21. The wine underwent a 13-day "cold soak," followed by a 14-day fermentation using selected Williams & Selyem yeast. It was then pressed into new and used French oak barrels. During our January barrel tasting, we were excited about the vintage's quality with distinct nuances and layered complexities from each barrel. We're excited to follow this wine's journey alongside Nunzio and Rich as it continues to develop in barrel, revealing more of its personality with each tasting.

Development Update - June 2025

Our latest blending and barrel evaluation sessions for the Tournahu Estate Cabernet have been extremely encouraging, and we're excited to share some insights into how the wine is evolving. We’re thrilled with how the wine is coming together and we’re on track for a complex, balanced, and cellar-worthy wine.

Tasting Notes

• We spent time tasting from several different barrels comparing both once-filled (used) and new oak. Across all samples, the balance between oak and fruit, as well as the subtle shifts in mouthfeel and aromatics from different coopers and barrel ages, impressed the team.

• The barrel samples tasted well beyond expectations at this stage. There’s none of the common reductive or awkward notes some young Cabernets can show during élevage.

• We consistently found expressive dark fruits (especially blackberry), floral notes, touch of spice, and a balanced, lingering finish.

• “Green” or vegetal tones were minimal, with structure and mouthfeel signaling a promising future as the wine matures and integrates further.

Winemaking Philosophy and Barrel Program Evolution

• We're committed to an iterative, quality-driven approach—each vintage, we beta-test select barrels to experiment with profile and integration.

• Oak “seasoning” is handled judiciously—like a well-trained chef, we add enough to enhance without overwhelming, knowing that you can always add more but not take it away.

• Persisting with experimentation, we remain open to adjusting the barrel mix yearly—always seeking the most harmonious final blend.

Looking Ahead

• We’ll continue to monitor each lot and make final blending decisions after further development. The core blend will focus on power, finesse, and signature St. Helena character, with expressive yet subtle oak to ensure purity and palate length.