2015
Since 2005 Calluna Vineyards has been growing grapes in Chalk Hill, a hillside appellation overlooking the Russian River Valley. Similar to Bordeaux, Chalk Hill has a mild climate and clayey-gravel soils where Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc thrive. The 2015 vintage's sunny, hot summer was moderated by altitude and cool breezes that allow the grapes to express intense black fruit while having balancing acidity. The wine spent 21 months in 100% French oak barrels, of which 20% is new oak adding notes of cinnamon, clove, cedar, and vanilla.