The Good Juice

In 1989 when Bob and Mary Miner purchased the 350-acre ranch, 55 acres of vineyards were planted to Chardonnay and Bordeaux varietals – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Located on a sloping plateau that rises to 1,400 feet above the Silverado trail on the East side of the Napa Valley, Oakville Ranch was one of appellation’s pioneering vineyards. Since then, several other highly regarded and prestigious wineries have become neighbours, drawn to this hillside for its powerful, signature-red volcanic soils. Through the years, the vineyards have been meticulously tended. Additional small vineyard enclaves have been developed as certain sites have revealed their promise. The shallow and miserly rocky soils slowly release their nutrients, naturally limiting the grape crop to an intense few bunches per vine. With each vintage the wines of Oakville Ranch speak clearly of their origin – a richly layered expression of location, soil, structure and heritage.
Oakville Ranch 2004 Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon available in 6 pks. $61.95/bottle

The Oakville Ranch, 2004 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the Oakville Ranch vineyard; 84% Vista, 9% Terrace and 7% from the Plateau Blocks. The grapes were harvested on September 12th, 2004 and the wine was barrel aged for 18 months in French barrels, 67% of which were new. Bottling took place on April 4th, 2006 and there were 725 cases produced along with 8 cases of magnums.

The 04’ Cab possesses a fruit-friendly core of cherry, cassis, and blackberry which is supported by integrated but subtle oak nuance. The richness of structure is evident in the palate weight and suppleness that lifts the perfectly-ripe flavors and spice nose. This wine is ready to drink now but will evolve over time. It is a worthy cellar resident.

With all of the warm weather we have had recently, it is time to look at BBQ recipes. For the 04’ Cabernet Sauvignon, I would recommend a Rib-Eye Steak with Chimichurri Marinade and a Dried Chile – Mustard Sauce. I have also found it very useful to have an ice cold beer available to assist in the BBQ’ing process.

Oakville Ranch 2006 Napa Valley, Chardonnay $44.95/bottle

The grapes for the 06’ Chardonnay were sourced from the Oakville Ranch vineyard; specifically they came from the Vista Block. The harvest took place from September 30th to October 3rd, 2006. Following 18 days of fermentation, the wine was then aged for 11 months in French oak barrels, 70% of which were new with batonage i.e. lees stirring for the first 8 months. Ultimately, there were 530 cases of the 06’ vintage produced along with 30 cases of magnums.

The 2006 Chardonnay exhibits crisp, natural acidity and the ranch’s signature minerality. These qualities are framed with well integrated oak. On the palate there is a buttery texture with creamy pineapple, apricot and butterscotch flavours. The wine finishes with tropical fruit and a lingering caramel sweetness.

I have an old standby that I go to when things are a bit rushed. Marinate some chicken breasts in lemon juice, fresh rosemary, garlic and olive oil. Grill the chicken along with asparagus wrapped in prosciutto and some red/yellow/orange peppers. Finally, add some wild rice. The 06’ Chardonnay would be a great match for this simple but delicious meal.

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How to order

Phone: 416-598-0033 extension 243 to speak directly with Allan Leal, or you can
E-mail him at aleal@profilewinegroup.com

All orders are COD. Payment can be made by Visa, MasterCard, AMEX or cheque. Your credit card will not be charged until the product is shipped.

Minimum Orders: There is a one case minimum order (12 bottles unless otherwise noted).

Delivery to a single destination within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is free of charge. Delivery outside of the GTA can be arranged.

You must be 19 years of age or older to place or receive a wine order.