By Fleury Estate Winery
2016 'Le Fleur 29' Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Vineyard Notes
Sourced from fruit farmed just at the base of Howell Mountain, and entirely from our Fleury Estate owned and farmed vineyard located in the Saint Helena AVA. The southwesterly exposure of the Saint Helena property provides beautiful sun that just kisses the clusters in the morning and provides needed shade in the afternoon. Purposefully selected clones were chosen for this spectacular site; clones 6 and 337 Cabernet Sauvignon showcase the true potential of this remarkable site. Planted on the east side of the valley on a raised, gently sloping plateau, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon planted vineyard develops into a classic style with silky tannins and deep, powerful fruit.

Growing Season
The 2016 growing season was marked by a warm, dry climate with moderate heat spikes, creating ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon ripening. The season featured a longer-than-average hang time, allowing grapes to develop rich flavors and full phenolic maturity. Warm days paired with cooler nights preserved balanced acidity and concentrated tannins. This resulted in a wine with bold, ripe fruit character, layered complexity, and a robust structure typical of the terroir, making it both approachable in youth and capable of graceful aging.

Winemaking
Hand-harvested, picked at night. Hand-sorted while still cold from the field. Fermented in small, closed-top, stainless steel tanks with selected yeasts. Five-day cold soak, 25 to 29 days total maceration. Gentle pumpovers and delestage. Spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrels.

Tasting Notes
The 2016 Le Fleur 29 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep ruby hue and a complex aromatic profile featuring blackberry, black currant, baking spices, and toasted oak. On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-structured, with concentrated dark fruit flavors balanced by vibrant acidity and firm, velvety tannins. Subtle notes of cocoa and earth add complexity, culminating in a long, persistent finish with lingering spice and smoky oak, showcasing excellent aging potential.
[Information provided by Matador Vino]