Cardinale

Located at 7600 St. Helena Highway, Cardinale benefits from its prime location within Napa Valley, allowing it to draw upon the diverse terroir and exceptional fruit that the region offers. The winery's philosophy centers around showcasing the unique characteristics of each vintage through a singular, carefully blended expression of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cardinale stands as a testament to the art of crafting exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley. While its history may be relatively recent compared to some of the region's pioneering wineries, its commitment to quality and unwavering focus on a single, meticulously crafted wine have quickly established its reputation as a producer of world-class Cabernet.

Cardinale's approach is rooted in a deep respect for the land and a dedication to precision winemaking. This commitment has allowed the winery to carve out a distinct identity within the crowded landscape of Napa Valley Cabernet producers.

The high-elevation vineyards provide ideal growing conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon, with well-drained soils, ample sunlight, and cooler temperatures that promote slow, even ripening. This results in grapes with concentrated flavors, complex aromas, and balanced acidity.

Cardinale's Cabernet Sauvignon is not simply a product of Napa Valley, but a carefully curated expression of its most prestigious mountain appellations. The winery sources fruit from vineyards located on the slopes of mountains like Diamond Mountain, Howell Mountain, Spring Mountain, and Mount Veeder, each contributing unique characteristics to the final blend.

The diversity of these mountain appellations allows Winemaker Christopher Carpenter to create a wine that is both powerful and elegant, showcasing the best that Napa Valley has to offer. The specific blend changes each year, reflecting the unique character of the vintage and the nuances of the individual vineyard sites.

Cardinale's signature, and indeed its sole focus, is its limited-production Cabernet Sauvignon. Each vintage is a unique blend, carefully crafted to express the specific character of that year's harvest. The wine is a testament to the artistry of Winemaker Christopher Carpenter, who meticulously selects and blends the best lots from the winery's mountain vineyard sources.

The resulting Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine of exceptional depth, concentration, and elegance. It exhibits a complex array of aromas and flavors, including dark fruit, cassis, cedar, and spice, supported by firm tannins and a long, lingering finish. Each bottle is a reflection of the winery's commitment to quality and its dedication to showcasing the unique terroir of Napa Valley's mountain appellations.

The winemaking process at Cardinale is a blend of traditional techniques and modern innovation. Grapes are carefully sorted and fermented in small lots, allowing for precise control over the extraction of flavors and tannins. The wine is then aged in French oak barrels, further enhancing its complexity and structure.

While specific details about public tours and tastings at Cardinale may vary, the winery typically offers exclusive and intimate experiences for serious wine enthusiasts. Given its focus on high-end Cabernet Sauvignon and limited production, visits are often by appointment only and tailored to provide a deep understanding of the winery's philosophy and winemaking practices.

To inquire about visiting Cardinale, it is recommended to contact the winery directly through their website or by phone. Be prepared to provide information about your wine preferences and interests, as well as your desired dates and times for a visit.

Visitors can expect to taste current and potentially library vintages of Cardinale Cabernet Sauvignon, accompanied by in-depth explanations of the vineyard sources, winemaking techniques, and the unique characteristics of each vintage. The experience is designed to be educational and engaging, offering a rare opportunity to connect with the wine on a deeper level.

Cardinale has quickly established itself as a leading producer of Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley, thanks to its unwavering commitment to quality and its focus on showcasing the unique terroir of the region's mountain appellations. The winery's legacy is built on the artistry of its winemakers and the dedication of its vineyard teams.

Cardinale's vision is to remain at the forefront of Cabernet Sauvignon production, crafting wines that are both timeless and expressive, and that continue to captivate and inspire wine lovers around the world.

Looking to the future, Cardinale is committed to continuing its pursuit of excellence, refining its winemaking practices, and exploring new ways to express the unique character of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery's dedication to sustainability and responsible farming practices ensures that its vineyards will continue to thrive for generations to come.