2022 Society of Smugglers JFC Signature Red

The love child of five estate varietals, each chosen for its depth, charisma, and ability to play well together, this year’s Signature is the yin to Maverick’s yang. Swoon-worthy florals combine with bright red fruit, opulent blackberry, and earthy bramble, all gently kissed by custom oak barrels from our late master cooper, Ramiro. Steeped in sophistication and Coombsville’s pure volcanic-soil expression, this wine is designed to go the distance in the cellar—twenty years, easily. That said, you’d be well served to open at least one bottle soon, because right now it is a mouthful of unadulterated, youthful power, making it one of our winemaker's favorite wines of the vintage.

Varietals

• 46% Cabernet Sauvignon
• 27% Tannat
• 18% Cabernet Franc
• 8% Merlot
• 1% Petit Verdot

Appellation: Caldwell Vineyard, Coombsville, Napa Valley, CA

Vineyard Blocks: Caldwell 17, 10, 8, 15, 20, 14, 3, 18, Upper Range F-12

Fermentation Vessel: Stainless steel; Caldwell Cooperage Jupilles and Berce

Aging: 100% French oak, 60% new, for 18 months

Vintage Summary: One of the most unique vintages in history, and very much location-dependent. We fared incredibly well here in Coombsville, with one week of triple-digit temperatures in September, then rain, followed by another heat spike right at the end of the month. Luckily, temperatures topped out at 105°F at Caldwell, which is well within the tolerance of our vines, especially with the bay-cooled nights.