Harvest Update: 20 October, 2025
Harvest for 2025 St Helena is now a fond memory. Patent’s Cabernet Sauvignon went dry the weekend of 10/18,19, and is set to be drained and pressed. The taste of the wine reminded me of an old favorite song, “Summer Wine”. “Strawberries, cherries, and an angel’s kiss in spring”! The wine has an extraordinarily deep purple red color, and that fruity aroma just mentioned. Admittedly, the wine is very tannic at this point, but the secondary fermentation (malo-lactic), racking after clarification, and barrel aging will magically produce the balanced, rich, voluptuous taste I expect from this lot.
I have been hearing similar comments from fellow winemakers who seem ecstatic to have such a treasure in the cellar. Although some issues are present around the valley, such as smoke and mold, I have yet to hear of any complaints. This year appears to be a stellar vintage for St Helena’s AVA, and one for the ages.
Written by Tom Rinaldi, Patent Wines, published in Napa Valley Register
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Author: Appellation Winery
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