Our second release from this historic vineyard on Larkmead Lane surrounding the former Hans Kornell Winery—which in turn enclosed the historic Larkmead Winery. That winery dated from the 1880’s, when it was owned by Lillie Hitchcock Coit of Coit Tower fame. Located on the valley floor, we surmise that Ritchie Creek, separating the Spring Mountain and Diamond Mountain appellations, once ran through this site, resulting in the prominent gravel and excellent drainage which distinguishes this vineyard. I had worked with some parcels from Larkmead while I was with Rudd, so I knew its potential for quality. This vintage is blended of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec.

Highlighted Reviews: 2005 Vintage

92  Steven Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar May/June 07
Inky ruby. Strong tobacco- and herb-accented cassis and cherry aromas, with an underpinning of graphite. Elegant and spicy in the mouth, with energetic red and dark berry flavors and firm, youthful tannins. This possesses impressive power but there's also a sense of restraint, suggesting that it will repay cellaring.

91  Robert M. Parker Jr.'s The Wine Advocate December 2007, Issue 174
The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Larkmead Vineyard  (1,360 cases produced from a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, and 9% Merlot) possesses abundant amounts of crème de cassis, graphite, cedar, roasted herbs, and spice. This is an attractive Cabernet that should drink well for 15-20 years.

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