Cornelius Grove, nestled in a secluded valley in the western foothills of St. Helena, is a vineyard blessed with diverse soil types and microclimates. Here, Cabernet Sauvignon vines delve deep into the earth, drawing water and nutrients from a combination of metamorphic cobblestones and red-hued sandstone soils. The 2019 vintage of Cornelius Grove reveals its charms gradually, unveiling a fresh and fragrant bouquet of red and black cherry, tobacco, violets, pastis, and delicate mineral undertones. The wine greets the palate with a remarkable silkiness, offering flavors of “black cherry, red currant, mineral, cigar box, black licorice, and aromatic herbs.” Its balance and seamlessness are truly captivating, with velvety tannins caressing the entire palate and leading to an elegant, lingering finish. Grace Family Vineyards, founded by Dick and Ann Grace in April 1976, planted their St. Helena vineyard with Cabernet Sauvignon cuttings sourced from the renowned Bosché Vineyard in Rutherford. Although the property changed hands in 2019, it remains a family-owned winery to this day, with Dick and Ann still residing on the estate they established many years ago, surrounded by their dedicated team and the vines they nurtured. In the last few years that Dick and Ann owned Grace, one of the best decisions they made was bringing Helen Keplinger on as winemaker. Today, she continues to make Grace Family. Cornelius Grove is a new vineyard and home for the new owners of Grace Family. 260 cases were produced.
Lastly, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Cornelius Grove (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) comes from a site west of St. Helena and part of the Heath Canyon Ranch. A mix of terroirs (it s a large ranch), it was brought up 21 months 70% new French oak. Blackcurrants, tobacco, iron, and lead pencil define the aromatics, yet it takes on more bay, laurel, and subtle floral and olive notes with air. Full-bodied, rich, and layered, it has a beautiful mid-palate, ripe, velvety tannins, and outstanding length. Drink bottles anytime over the coming two decades.
97 Robert Parker
