VITICULTURE: The American Super Tuscan blend features 40% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from Napa Valley, namely Howell Mountain where the fruit is grown on steep hillsides and lends great structure to the wine. The 33% Sangiovese comes from Rutherford and Calistoga AVAs – valley floor fruit which offers rich complexity. The 27% Merlot added to the 2020 vintage offers a velvety richness to the palate.
VINIFICATION: The blend was barrel aged in French oak for 30 months.
INTERESTING FACT: The wines are named after the peak, of course, but also for the mythological Greek figure, Atlas, whose lot in life was to have the weight of the world on his back. The image of Atlas is an apt metaphor for Atlas Peak wines, which are fleshy and weighty, just like the world on Atlas’ shoulders.
FAMILY: The Atlas Peak appellation sits high in the Vaca Mountain range, on the eastern side of Napa Valley. Atlas Peak (the winery) was established in 1987, five years before the Atlas Peak AVA became official. Atlas Peak knew that their terroir was something special. The AVA boasted high altitudes (2,663 feet, no less), well-drained soils and a particular climate uniquely suited to producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa’s flagship variety.
Derek Irwin, the new winemaker for Atlas Peak, is committed to carrying on the traditions that have anchored it as one of Napa’s leading wineries, while also securing sourcing from esteemed long-term grower partners. Derek started his wine career in 1994 after graduating from UC Davis. He has consulted for wineries in various California wine regions.
Producer: Atlas Peak
Region: Napa Valley, California
Country: United States
Wine Composition: 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Sangiovese, 27% Merlot
Alcohol: 14.4%
Total Acidity: 6.10 G/L
Residual Sugar: 1.01 G/L
pH: 3.59