Obelisco Estate is a new Red Mountain winery marking its first release. Obelisco’s name comes from the four-sided granite obelisks carved in ancient times. The winery was founded by Doug Long, Paul Kaltnick, and Dick Shaw. Co-founder Doug Long, along with his brothers Bob and David, established David Arthur Vineyards in Napa Valley in the mid 1970s. Sarah Goedhart and Pete Hedges serve as winemakers.Obelisco has a thirty acre estate vineyard located on the southwest slope of Red Mountain. The vineyard is planted at a high density of 2,000-plus vines per acre. Grape production is limited to four pounds per plant to increase fruit concentration.
The 2007 Estate Cabernet is principally composed of the first fruit from Obelisco’s estate vineyard with a small amount of Merlot from Hedges added to the blend. While the vines are young and the price point is quite aggressive for a first release, this winery is clearly thinking long-term and will be one to keep an eye on. Five wines were created for the 2008 vintage: two Cabernets, a Merlot, a Malbec, and a Syrah.
Obelisco Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 $57 Rating: *
Nose has a lot of smoky, toasted oak aromas along with cherry and light herbal notes. A rich, focused palate with abundant cherry and chocolate paired with soft tannins. 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7.5% Merlot (5% Hedges Vineyard, 2.5% Obelisco), 2.5% Malbec. Aged in 50% French and 50% American oak. 14.1% alcohol. 238 cases produced. Sampled at 67 degrees.
Wine sampled at The Local Vine’s Celebration of Washington Winemakers.
Josh, agreed that soft, especially for a Red Mountain Cabernet is unusual. I heard the Cabernet was 100% free run but didn't see mention of this on their winemaker notes. Thanks for the comment. Let me know if you head over there.
ReplyDelete