The 2016 release introduces the Witha and Pawa labels to Hesperian Wines. For 20 years Philippe has focused on making age-worthy Napa Cabs that showcase the terroir of various vineyards located in the Napa Valley. Two years after acquiring (in 2010) and improving the vineyard, Kitoko Vineyard, Atlas Peak AVA, he introduced his ultra-premium Kitoko Vineyard label. It was made of the best lots from its namesake vineyard. With six years of vineyard improvements in place Philippe was ready to turn his attention to individualized management and harvesting of specific lots at different ripeness levels. The intention was to produce a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that could be enjoyed upon release, yet possessed characteristics of classic, age worthy, collectable wines. The 2016 vintage is the first to incorporate the integration of various ripeness levels in his 100% Cabs. To distinguish this new dimension to his winemaking he introduced two new names/label. The 2016 is also the first vintage of Hesperian Wines to be held for 5 years before releasing to the public.
2016 Hesperian Kitoko is little changed and made up of the best of the late picked grapes from his best lots from the 14 acres of his vineyard. The thin, rocky soils of Atlas Peak force the vines to struggle resulting in intense wines with durable super fine tannins that allow the wine to drink well from release and also for the next 20 years.
2016 Hesperian Witha formerly called Hesperian Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is now comprised of the early picks from the Kitoko vineyard and the Upstream Vineyard located east of Napa in the Coombsville AVA. Philippe has leased and farmed the Upstream vineyard for six years. This elegant wine is a true classic with fine tannins that will age 30 years or longer. Witha is a Wappo Indian word for West.
2016 Hesperian Pawa Is a completely new wine for Hesperian Wine. It is made up of the middle ripeness picks from Kitoko vineyard and Didier Vineyard located in the Napa AVA. This wine is full of plush fruit and has a round mouthfeel. This wine is drinking exceptionally well now and will continue to do so for at least 10 more years. Pawa is a Wappo Indian word for One (one wine made from the blend of a few vineyards).