This is a stunning vintage and release, much like the new estate single vineyard Cornelius Grove, and we are very excited to share it. Winemaker Helen Keplinger might be making her best efforts today at this storied winery as it has evolved under the new stewardship of owners. As the wine that started it all in 1978, the Grace Family Vineyards Estate Cabernet continues to manifest with each new vintage the unique qualities of the land and soils where the winery was established. Located in the hills of the Mayacamas Mountains, it is just north of St. Helena's town and has undergone vineyard redevelopment the past few years. This very small three-acre vineyard is distinguished by an upper and a lower block. The red volcanic soil of the upper block provides the backbone to the wine, while the lower block’s volcanic compressed ash and clay soil layers in soft fleshiness that is so distinct to this wine. The 2018 Grace Estate exudes “dark red fruit, black cherry, and black currant, accented by notes of bittersweet cocoa, black licorice, cigar box, resin, pink peppercorn, rose, and a hint of mint which offers freshness and lift. The palate is broad and plush with layers of vibrant dark red fruit and spice seamlessly underpinned by soft, fine tannins and an extremely long palate.”