2017 The Setting Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

The Setting Wines is an artisanal winemaking venture from Jesse Katz and two partners. Katz is a young, already highly acclaimed winemaker who has worked for prestigious California and Argentine wineries. He and his business partners decided to start The Setting Wines as an homage to the idea that the perfect setting, not just grape growing terroir but also the company of family and friends, is part of what makes a perfect wine. The estate produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. The limited production wines are generally available only through the estate’s mailing list.

Oakville AVA is one of the two or three most prestigious appellations in the United States. Located in the heart of Napa Valley, its 5,000 vineyard acres produce some of the world’s most acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, including such California “cult” Cabs as Screaming Eagle and Harlan Estate. Before those boutique producers rose to fame in the 1990s, Oakville was already renowned as home to Robert Mondavi, Opus One and Groth Vineyards, among others. Along with the famous wineries, there are premier vineyards in this AVA, including Martha’s Vineyard and To Kalon Vineyard. To Kalon was first planted in 1868 by H.W. Crabb, one of California’s first viticultural researchers, and he named the vineyard after the ancient Greek phrase for “most beautiful.” Though many grapes can be successfully grown in Oakville, Cabernet Sauvignon is king. Merlot and Chardonnay are also frequently planted. Oakville Cabs are prized for their richness, complexity and weight. Oakville was designated as an AVA in 1993.

One of the most widely grown grape varieties, it can be found in nearly every wine growing region. A cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a hardy vine that produces a full-bodied wine with high tannins and great aging potential.