# Martha's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (2018)

- **Producer:** Heitz Wine Cellars
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €325
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** eucalyptus, mint, black cherry, blackberry, cassis, cedar, charcoal, espresso grounds, liquorice

## About this wine

The Heitz Cellar Martha's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 originates from the Oakville AVA in Napa Valley, California. It is a single-vineyard bottling from the historic Martha's Vineyard, known for its distinctive 'Martha's Clone' of Cabernet Sauvignon. Founded in 1961, Heitz Cellar is recognized as a pioneering winery in Napa Valley, celebrated for its early adoption of vineyard-designated wines. The 2018 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, contributing to the wine's structure and elegance.

## Interesting facts

- Features the unique 'Martha's Clone' of Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Vineyard is farmed using organic and sustainable practices.
- Aging process includes 3 years in 100% new French oak.
- Winemaking style is reminiscent of Brunello di Montalcino.

## Food pairing

The wine's robust structure, fine-grained tannins, and concentrated fruit flavors are well-suited to rich, protein-heavy dishes. The tannins bind with proteins in the meat, softening the wine and enhancing the savory qualities of the food. Herbal notes in the wine can complement herbs used in cooking, while the wine's intensity can stand up to complex flavors.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for the Martha's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 involves meticulous attention to detail, beginning with grapes from the estate vineyard. After fermentation, the wine undergoes an extensive aging regimen. It is first matured for a year in large, neutral oak tanks. This is followed by three years of aging in 100% new French Limousin oak barrels. The final stage of maturation occurs in the bottle for one year before the wine is released. This extended elevage is a hallmark of the winery's approach to developing complex and age-worthy wines.