WINEMAKER NOTES

Between pandemic restrictions and nearby fires, 2020 was a challenging growing season throughout the Alexander Valley. But ample sunshine and consistent temperatures resulted in a well-balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. Bold but elegant, this wine boasts notes of rich blackcurrant, red plums, cloves, and black pepper. The vintage pairs beautifully with steak right now, but firm tannins suggest excellent aging potential for years to come.

WINEMAKING TECHNIQUES

Clusters were hand-harvested early morning for gentle processing. At the winery, grapes were hand sorted, destemmed, and crushed. Fermentation occurred in open-top tanks with daily pump-overs for skin extraction. Being from a Biodynamic Vineyard, native yeast was used for fermentation. After pressing, the wine was aged for 18 months in 40% new French oak barrels. This is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Mila Vineyard.

FRUIT SOURCE: MILA VINEYARD, ALEXANDER VALLEY

Located nine miles northeast of Healdsburg, between the Russian River and Gird Creek, our 54-acre wine farm is enveloped by forests and neighboring vineyards. Coastal morning and evening fogs infuse the fruit with vibrant freshness, while daytime temperatures averaging 85 degrees Fahrenheit build layers of rich flavor. Our vine rows are densely spaced, and we practice Biodynamics, an ancient agricultural method that predates the organic movement, relying on cover crops and natural defenses instead of pesticides to nurture soil health and produce exceptional wines.

VINTAGE NOTES

The Alexander Valley experienced a difficult but rewarding growing season in 2020. A warm, sunny spring led into a summer of mostly consistent temperatures, with only a handful of heatwaves putting added stress on the vines. Though August saw lightning storms start nearby wildfires, smoke drift was not an issue for this vineyard. These growing conditions resulted in a Cabernet Sauvignon that is big and savory, but also rich in concentrated dark fruit.

THE WINERY

Bailarín Cellars was created in 2014 by a collective of family and friends, each following their respective passions. Together, we focus on producing small lots of handcrafted wines from unique vineyard sources. We are proud to share the fruits of our labor and love with you.