2018 MASTODON 1.5L
Oakville Ranch sits 1400’ high above Napa Valley on the eastern slopes. The organically farmed vineyard is strewn with ancient volcanic rock outcroppings and is bathed in all-day sunlight. The vines produce low yield, small-berried clusters of incredible Cabernet Sauvignon. Mastodon is a selection of one exceptional barrel from my Oakville Ranch lot that I believe captures the personality of this remarkable vineyard as well as vintage year.
Winemaker's Tasting Notes:
The 2018 growing season was long and cool with rainfall that visited us during optimal times of the year. The temperatures were moderate and even with no major heat spikes. These growing conditions resulted in a long hang time allowing the full spectrum of aromas and flavors to develop until the September harvest.
The 2018 Mastodon Cabernet is not unlike its namesake—big, bold and distinctive. Its saturated purplish-black color gives way to an explosion of aromas! Layers of ripe blackberry, black currant, raspberry liqueur, freshly cut suede and rock dust. With time in your glass notes of truffles, black cardamom and cinnamon bark reveal the more elegant side of this wine.
Not for the faint of heart, Mastodon is opulent and seamless delivering a bounty of hedonistic fruit flavors framed with generous, savory tannins. The finish seems infinite and begs for another sip. Enjoy this wine over its 20 year evolution.
Press:
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Mastodon is Mark Herold's favorite barrel of Oakville Ranch. A rush of dark, inky fruit, spice, licorice, new leather, chocolate and French oak makes a strong opening statement. Opulent and heady to the core, Mastodon is a classic Mark Herold wine built on intense, luscious flavors. Mastodon is bottled only in magnum. I imagine these bottles will be drained pretty quickly, as Mastodon is a wine full of pleasure and deliciousness. - 97 Points, Antonio Galloni
Decanting this wine allows for optimal enjoyment now and the wine will cellar well over the next 25 years.
5 Bottles Left