Lot 581
2022 Mount Veeder Cabernet Franc

Over $100/bottle under the original label

Lot 581 is a single-vineyard Cabernet Franc from a high-altitude site perched in the appellation’s steep, rugged terrain. Its well-draining ancient seabed soils produce grapes of wonderful concentration, showcasing some of the finest mountain terroir on the North Coast. This beauty and its sister Lot 580 were library acquisitions from the sale of a highly acclaimed family winery. Each intricately structured wine is irresistible, telling the story of its respective vintage while possessing Mt. Veeder’s hallmark bramble and dark fruit profile. Older releases are long gone, so our customers are the only people that will ever get access to these final vintage gems.

581 is slightly less brooding on the pour than its sibling, but is still nearly impenetrable. The nose is a masterclass in mountain refinement: dark cherries and black currant pull you deep into the glass, revealing layers of bramble fruit, lovage, worn leather, and coffee grounds, all haloed by dried herbs and a brush of paprika. The palate marries dark fruit with medium+ acidity, delivering notes of black cherries and plum sauce interlaced with cocoa shavings, pepper flakes, and supple leather amidst plentiful velvety tannins. The finish is long, dry, and focused – dark fruit is lifted by barrel spice before vanilla and violets take over, trading waves ad infinitum.